Bohai Sea facts for kids

The Bohai Sea (Chinese: 渤海) is a large gulf located on the northeast coast of China. It lies to the west of the Korean Peninsula. Think of it as a big bay that is part of the larger Yellow Sea.

The name "Bohai Sea" is a bit special. It's what we call a "redundant place name." This means that part of the name already tells you what it is. The word hăi (海) in Bóhǎi actually means "sea" or "ocean" in Chinese. So, it's like saying "Bohai Sea Sea"!

Many important cities and ports are found along the coast of the Bohai Sea. These include Tianjin, Qinhuangdao, and Dalian. These cities are busy places where ships come and go, carrying goods and people.

Where is the Bohai Sea?

The Bohai Sea is almost completely surrounded by land. It is connected to the Yellow Sea by a narrow strait called the Bohai Strait. This strait is like a doorway that lets water flow between the two seas.

The sea covers an area of about 78,000 square kilometers (30,000 square miles). That's a huge area of water! It is also quite shallow, especially near the coasts. This makes it a good place for fishing and for ships to anchor.

Why is the Bohai Sea Important?

The Bohai Sea is very important for China. It plays a big role in the country's economy and daily life.

Busy Ports and Trade

The cities along the Bohai Sea are home to some of China's busiest ports.

• Tianjin is one of the largest port cities in northern China. It handles a lot of international trade.
• Qinhuangdao is famous for shipping coal.
• Dalian is a major port and industrial city.

These ports help China trade with other countries around the world. They are like giant gateways for goods coming in and out of the country.

Fishing and Resources

The shallow waters of the Bohai Sea are also rich in fish and other seafood. Many people living near the coast work in the fishing industry. The sea provides food for millions of people.

Besides fishing, the Bohai Sea region also has important natural resources. There are oil and natural gas fields beneath the seabed. These resources are important for energy.

Environment and Protection

Because the Bohai Sea is surrounded by many cities and industries, it faces environmental challenges. Pollution from factories and cities can affect the water and marine life.

However, China is working to protect the Bohai Sea. Efforts are being made to reduce pollution and keep the sea healthy. This helps to protect the fish, birds, and other animals that live there. It also ensures the sea remains a valuable resource for future generations.

Images for kids

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  Rocky shore in Dalian, Liaoning