Weihai history

The history of Weihai is closely interwoven with its strategic position on the coast of the Yellow Sea. The city, which grew from a military garrison, has played a key role in the maritime defence of China for centuries.

Founding and Early Years

The first significant settlement on the site of modern Weihai was founded in 1398 during the Ming Dynasty. It was named Weihaiwei (威海衛), which translates as "Imposing Maritime Guard". The primary mission of this fortified point was to protect the coast from pirate raids, which were a frequent threat during that period. The garrison controlled a vital sea route and served as a reliable outpost for the empire.

Key Factors of Formation

The development of the city was determined by several key factors:

• Geographical Location: Situated on the eastern tip of the Shandong Peninsula, Weihai controls the entrance to the Bohai Gulf. Its natural harbour was ideally suited for basing a naval fleet.
• Military and Political Significance: For centuries, the city remained an important military centre. Its significance rose sharply in the late 19th century when, during the Qing Dynasty, the main base of the Beiyang Fleet—the most powerful naval force in China at the time—was established here.
• Trade: Although the economy was initially oriented towards military needs, the convenient port eventually began to attract merchant vessels, fostering the development of commercial ties.

Cultural and Economic Features

Weihai's early economy was entirely subordinate to its military functions. Life in the city revolved around the garrison and the port. Cultural development was also linked to its status as a guardian of maritime borders. In the late 19th century, following the creation of the naval base, new infrastructure facilities appeared in the city, including a naval academy and modern fortifications. This period was also marked by increased contact with other countries. From 1898 to 1930, the city was under the administration of the United Kingdom as a leased territory, which also left a mark on its architecture and layout.

Key Dates in the History of Weihai

The history of Weihai is a journey from a military garrison to a thriving coastal city. Below are the main milestones that defined its destiny.

• 1398 — During the Ming Dynasty, the fortified garrison of Weihaiwei is founded to protect the coast from pirate raids.
• 1888 — The city becomes the main base of the Beiyang Fleet, the most powerful naval force of Qing China.
• 1895 — During the First Sino-Japanese War, the Battle of Weihaiwei takes place, ending in the defeat of the Beiyang Fleet and the capture of the city by Japanese troops.
• 1898 — The territory of Weihaiwei is leased to the United Kingdom, becoming a British colony and naval base.
• 1930 — On October 1, China officially restores sovereignty over Weihai following the conclusion of the British lease.
• 1938 — During the Second Sino-Japanese War, the city once again falls under Japanese occupation.
• 1945 — After the end of World War II, Weihai returns to Chinese control.
• 1984 — Weihai receives the status of one of the first "open coastal cities" of China, kickstarting its rapid economic growth.
• 1987 — The city receives prefecture-level city status, which expands its administrative powers and promotes further development.
• 2003 — UN-Habitat awards Weihai an honorary prize for outstanding achievements in improving the urban environment and quality of life.

Stages of Formation and Development

The evolution of Weihai is a path from a closed military outpost to a modern international resort and trade hub. Key milestones in the city's development are linked to radical changes in its status, each of which brought new features to the region's economy, architecture, and culture.

• Founding of Weihaiwei Fortress (1398)
  The establishment of a military garrison during the Ming Dynasty era became the starting point in the city's history. This event defined the initial layout and functional purpose of the settlement as a strategic defensive node protecting the empire's maritime borders.
• Creation of the Beiyang Fleet Base (1888)
  Transforming the city into the main naval base led to the first large-scale infrastructure boom. The construction of docks, arsenals, and headquarters buildings on Liugong Island and the coast not only strengthened defences but also attracted qualified specialists, giving impetus to the technical development of the region.
• British Lease Period (1898–1930)
  The time under British administration brought European features to the appearance of Weihai. The status of a free port (porto-franco) facilitated integration into global trade, while the construction of roads, schools, and hospitals to Western standards laid the foundations for modern urban infrastructure and formed a unique architectural style.
• Opening to the Outside World (1984)
  Weihai's inclusion in the list of "open coastal cities" was an economic turning point. Abandoning isolation allowed for attracting foreign investment, launching industrial modernisation, and beginning the development of international tourism, turning the city into an export centre.
• Receiving Prefecture-Level City Status (1987)
  Administrative elevation gave local authorities more power in urban planning. This led to the expansion of the city territory, the unification of disparate districts into a single transport network, and the start of large-scale urbanisation that changed the city's skyline.
• UN-Habitat Recognition (2003)
  Receiving the prestigious award for improving living conditions secured Weihai's status as a "Garden City". This event marked a transition to an ecological development strategy: priority was given to greenery, clean beaches, and creating a comfortable environment, making the city one of the most liveable places in the country.
• Creation of a Free Trade Zone with the Republic of Korea (2015)
  Due to its geographical proximity, the city was chosen as a key link in economic cooperation with South Korea. This decision turned Weihai into a major logistics and trade hub in Northeast Asia, stimulating the development of e-commerce and cross-border business.

The architectural appearance of Weihai is a visual reflection of its multifaceted history. There is no single dominant style here; instead, one can trace how the city changed under the influence of military, colonial, and economic eras. Weihai's development can be divided into several key periods, each leaving its own unique mark.

Traditional and Military Architecture (14th–19th Centuries)

The founding of Weihai as a military post during the Ming Dynasty era predetermined its early development. The architecture of this period was primarily functional and defensive. Key structures of that time include fortress walls, watchtowers, and garrison administrative buildings executed in the traditional Chinese style. Later, when Weihai became the base of the Beiyang Fleet, arsenals, docks, and headquarters buildings were erected on Liugong Island and the adjacent coast. These structures combined Chinese architectural norms with the military technologies of their time.

European Influence: The Weihaiwei Period (1898–1930)

The colonial period under British administration introduced elements of European architecture to the city. On Liugong Island and in the central districts of Weihai, buildings appeared in a typical British colonial style, characterised by strict lines, the use of brick and stone, as well as verandas and attics. These structures, which included administrative offices, officials' residences, and public buildings, created a contrast with the traditional Chinese development and remain an important part of the city's historical heritage.

Modern Urban Planning (1980s to Present)

After receiving the status of an open city, Weihai entered an era of rapid growth. This period is characterised by modernist and post-modernist architecture. The urban landscape was augmented with high-rise office buildings made of glass and steel, modern residential complexes, and large-scale public spaces. Vivid examples of modern architecture include:

• "Happiness Gate" (Xingfumen) — a giant arch on the embankment that serves as an observation deck and symbolises the openness of the city.
• Xingfumen Park — an extensive park complex demonstrating modern approaches to landscape design.
• Huancui Tower — although its history dates back to the 15th century, the current building is a modern reconstruction harmoniously integrated into the park ensemble.

Today, Weihai's urban development follows the concept of an "exquisite city", which implies not mass demolition, but the careful integration of the new into the existing environment, with an emphasis on ecology, the creation of parks, and improving the quality of life.

Notable Figures Associated with Weihai

The history and culture of Weihai are enriched by the contributions of many outstanding individuals—from emperors of antiquity to figures of science and art in modern times. Their destinies are closely intertwined with this seaside city.

• Qin Shi Huang (259–210 BC)

  Role: The first emperor of a unified China.

  Connection to the city: According to historical records, the emperor twice visited the eastern tip of the Shandong Peninsula, where Weihai is located today. He visited Cape Chengshantou, which he considered the "End of the Sky", in search of the elixir of immortality. This visit forever inscribed Weihai into the annals of Chinese history.

• Ding Ruchang (1836–1895)

  Role: Admiral, Commander of the Beiyang Fleet.

  Connection to the city: Admiral Ding Ruchang was a key figure in the history of Weihai as a naval base. He commanded the most powerful fleet of the Qing Dynasty, which was based here. His life ended tragically in Weihai during the Sino-Japanese War, and today he is revered as a national hero, while his headquarters on Liugong Island serves as an important memorial.

• Guo Yonghuai (1909–1968)

  Role: Physicist, one of the founders of Chinese aerodynamics.

  Connection to the city: A native of Rongcheng County (part of modern Weihai), Guo Yonghuai is one of the greatest scientists of 20th-century China. He made a key contribution to the development of the country's nuclear and space programmes and is considered a national hero for his dedication to science and his homeland.

• Ni Ping (born 1959)

  Role: Actress, television presenter, and producer.

  Connection to the city: Ni Ping, born in Rongcheng (Weihai), is one of the most recognisable and beloved media personalities in China. For many years, she was the permanent host of the New Year's Gala on Central Television (CCTV), becoming a symbol of the national holiday for several generations of Chinese people.

• Liang Xiaosheng (born 1949)

  Role: Writer and screenwriter.

  Connection to the city: Although Liang Xiaosheng was born in Harbin, his ancestral roots originate from Weihai. He is one of the leading contemporary Chinese writers and a laureate of the prestigious Mao Dun Literature Prize. In his works, he often addresses themes of history and social change in China, making him an important figure in the country's modern culture.