In the vast expanse of the Bohai Bay lies a mysterious island with a pleasant climate and numerous historical sites. This is Juehua Island, the largest island in the Liaodong Bay of the Bohai Sea. Formerly known as Chrysanthemum Island and renamed Juehua Island in 2009, it is colloquially referred to as Danghaishan. During the Tang and Song dynasties, it was called Peach Blossom Island, and during the Liao and Jin dynasties, it was known as Juehua Island. The island spans an area of 13.5 square kilometers and is dubbed the ‘Little Macau of the North’. It is situated 18 miles from the coast and 30 miles from Ningyuan City.
During the Ming Dynasty, Juehua Island served as a strategic base for grain storage and naval forces, guarding the water and land routes of Western Liaoning. The island boasts beautiful mountains and towering ancient trees. To the south are Zhangshan Island and Yanshan Island, and to the north is Modanshan Island. These islands, one large and three small, stand alone in the sea, creating an interesting contrast.
The Ancient Shore Gallery Scenic Area, formerly known as the Dalonggong Temple Scenic Area, is named after the Dalonggong Temple founded by the Liao Dynasty’s Master Juehua. It is located on the southeast coast of Juehua Island and is the core scenic area of the island. This area combines historical and cultural tourism, natural sightseeing, archaeological exploration, and the enjoyment of Bodhi tea and ancient well water (for devout disease removal), as well as incense offerings and worship. The scenic area includes the thousand-year-old Bodhi sacred tree, the thousand-year-old octagonal ancient well, the mysterious Tang King Cave, the Bodhi Tea House, the ruins of the Great Compassion Pavilion, and the tourist service center.
The local customs of Juehua Island are simple and rustic, with the ‘fisher’s joy’ operated by local islanders offering a unique charm. The island is rich in marine products, including flower crabs, oysters, clams, shrimp, jellyfish, fish, and shrimp, with the flower crab being particularly famous for its richness and affordability. The island is open all year round from 08:00 to 17:00, with specific business status subject to the day’s opening conditions.
