Coastal and marine tourism, and short-haul trips became popular choices in Yantai, a coastal city in East China's Shandong province, for people to spend this year's National Day holiday, which took place from Oct 1 to 7, according to an announcement from the city's culture and tourism bureau.

During the seven-day holiday, suburban parks, surrounding countryside cities and city parks were the three most popular tourist destinations. Changdao Island, Yangma Island, and Kongtong Island in Yantai were also popular tourist destinations during the holiday.

Kongtong Island, located in Zhifu district, Yantai in eastern Shandong province, is a natural islet with great coastal views. As the nearest island to downtown Yantai, it is a great destination for locals looking to enjoy stunning autumn views near the city.

Kongtong Island launches new sightseeing cruise routes for tourists to enjoy the marine and coastal scenery in Zhifu district, Yantai. [Photo/WeChat account: ytwlgw]

The city's culture and tourism bureau also launched a wide range of distinctive marine tourism products such as self-driving tours, academic research tours, sunrise admiration activities, and camping on the beach, offering people a great escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Camping tours entertain travelers during the National Day holiday in Yantai, a coastal city in East China's Shandong province. [Photo/WeChat account: ytwlgw]

Rural tourism was another a hot choice for people during the holiday in Yantai, and Chateau Changyu Castle, Chateau Junding, and Penglai Taisheng Town received a large number of visitors. National forest parks in Yantai also organized a wide range of themed activities to lure visitors during the weeklong holiday.

The city's Kunyu Mountain National Forest Park bursts with vibrant colors every autumn. The mountain, which was recognized as a national nature reserve in 2008, boasts verdant vegetation and charming views. 

At Kunyu Mountain National Forest Park in Yantai city, ornamental pink muhly grass (Muhlenbergia capillaris) blooms, turning the park into a pink wonderland. [Photo/WeChat account: ytwlgw]