Yandunjiao village: A seaside sanctuary of heritage and beauty

Yandunjiao, a village in China’s Shandong province, has been named one of the "Best Tourism Villages 2024" by the United Nations World Tourism Organization at its 122nd session of the Executive Council on Friday in Cartagena, Colombia.

With a history spanning over 400 years, Yandunjiao is known for its unique seaweed-thatched houses, built from thick stone or earthen blocks. These historic structures, along with the village’s natural beauty, have drawn an increasing number of tourists.

"The seaweed-roofed houses, the graceful swans, the ocean, and the pristine environment—this is what people dream of," said a local resident.

"When the sun rises, casting golden hues, 'Swan Lake' is breathtaking," added Angeline Lew, a photographer from Singapore.