Qingdao, Northern China
Qingdao, a beautiful coastal city in Shandong Province, is famous for its beaches, German colonial architecture, and Qingdao (Tsingtao) beer. It’s a popular tourist destination for those looking to experience both history and natural beauty in a seaside setting. The city offers a mix of urban attractions and coastal getaways, with a vibrant food scene and lively nightlife.
Top Tourist Attractions in Qingdao
Zhanqiao Pier (栈桥)
- Description: Zhanqiao Pier is one of the most iconic landmarks of Qingdao, originally built in 1891. The 440-meter-long pier stretches into the sea, with a traditional Chinese pavilion at the end, offering fantastic views of the coastline.
- Highlights: Seaside views, Chinese architecture, photo opportunities.
- Entrance Fee: Free.
- Opening Hours: Open 24 hours.
- How to Get There: Take buses 6, 26, or 316 to Zhanqiao Station.
Laoshan Scenic Area (崂山风景区)
- Description: Laoshan Mountain is a scenic area located east of Qingdao and is famous for its beautiful coastline, Taoist temples, and hiking trails. It’s a great place for nature lovers and those interested in Chinese philosophy.
- Highlights: Taoist temples, hiking trails, scenic sea and mountain views, waterfalls.
- Entrance Fee: ¥90 (varies based on access to different areas).
- Opening Hours: 7:30 AM – 5:30 PM.
- How to Get There: Take buses 104, 304, or 113 from downtown Qingdao to Laoshan Scenic Area (about 1 hour).
Qingdao Beer Museum (青岛啤酒博物馆)
- Description: Located in the old Tsingtao Brewery, the Qingdao Beer Museum is a must-visit for beer lovers. It covers the history of the famous Tsingtao beer, founded by Germans in 1903, with displays about the brewing process, old advertisements, and tastings.
- Highlights: Beer tasting, exhibits on brewing history, brewery tours.
- Entrance Fee: ¥50-¥60, includes beer samples.
- Opening Hours: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM.
- How to Get There: Take bus 5, 15, or 217 to Dengzhou Road Station.
Badaguan Scenic Area (八大关风景区)
- Description: This area is known for its combination of European-style villas and beautiful coastal views. Badaguan was built during the German occupation, and it now serves as a tranquil area for walking, photography, and enjoying the seaside.
- Highlights: European-style architecture, scenic walks, ocean views, and flowers blooming in spring.
- Entrance Fee: Free.
- Opening Hours: Open 24 hours.
- How to Get There: Take bus 26, 304, or 316 to Badaguan Station.
May Fourth Square (五四广场)
- Description: A large public square named after the May Fourth Movement, which took place in 1919, May Fourth Square features the striking “Winds of May” sculpture, symbolizing Qingdao’s modernity and historical importance. It’s a popular spot for evening walks and watching the city lights at night.
- Highlights: “Winds of May” sculpture, waterfront views, city skyline.
- Entrance Fee: Free.
- Opening Hours: Open 24 hours.
- How to Get There: Take bus 224, 304, or metro Line 3 to May Fourth Square Station.
Qingdao Underwater World (青岛海底世界)
- Description: A large aquarium that showcases marine life from around the world. It features a long underwater tunnel where visitors can walk among the fish and aquatic animals.
- Highlights: Underwater tunnel, marine life exhibits, penguins, and sea lion performances.
- Entrance Fee: ¥130.
- Opening Hours: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM.
- How to Get There: Take bus 6, 15, or 316 to Qingdao Underwater World Station.
How to Get Around Qingdao
- Public Buses: Qingdao has a well-organized bus system. Buses are cheap and cover most tourist attractions.
- Metro: Qingdao’s metro system (currently lines 2, 3, and 11) is modern and efficient, with easy access to major tourist destinations. Line 3, in particular, connects key spots like May Fourth Square and Qingdao Railway Station.
- Taxis and Ride-hailing: Taxis are abundant and relatively affordable. Ride-hailing apps like Didi are widely used.
- Bikes and Electric Scooters: Bike-sharing services such as Meituan and HelloBike are available throughout the city.
- Walking: Many of the main attractions, especially near the coastline, are easily walkable, making it a pedestrian-friendly city.
Popular Local Food in Qingdao
Seafood (海鲜): Being a coastal city, Qingdao is known for its fresh seafood. Popular dishes include steamed clams, prawns, and various fish.
- Recommended Spot: Pi Chai Yuan (劈柴院), a famous food street where you can try various seafood dishes.
Qingdao-style Dumplings (青岛水饺): Qingdao’s dumplings are known for their fresh seafood fillings like shrimp and fish.
- Recommended Spot: Jiangning Dumpling Restaurant (江宁水饺馆).
Tsingtao Beer and Fried Squid (青岛啤酒炸鱿鱼): A popular local snack, deep-fried squid pairs perfectly with the local Tsingtao beer.
- Recommended Spot: Many local beer houses in the Old Town.
Pancakes with Scallions (葱油饼): A crispy pancake filled with scallions, perfect for breakfast or a quick snack.
- Recommended Spot: Found in local food markets like Taidong Night Market.
Baozi (包子): Qingdao has its unique take on these steamed buns filled with pork or vegetables.
- Recommended Spot: Xinquan Baozi Restaurant (新泉包子).
Top Nightlife Spots in Qingdao
Tsingtao Beer Bar Street (青岛啤酒街)
- Description: This street is lined with bars and restaurants serving fresh Tsingtao beer straight from the brewery. It’s a lively spot for both locals and tourists, especially in the evenings.
- How to Get There: Located on Dengzhou Road, you can reach it by taking a bus or taxi to Dengzhou Road Station.
- Entrance Fee: Free to enter the area; only pay for drinks.
- Happy Hours: Many bars offer happy hours from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM, with discounts on Tsingtao beer and cocktails.
LENNON Bar
- Description: A laid-back bar with live music and a rock ‘n’ roll vibe, LENNON Bar is a popular spot for expats and music lovers. It has a great selection of beer and cocktails.
- How to Get There: Located on Minjiang Road, it’s accessible by taking bus 317 or Line 2 of the metro.
- Entrance Fee: No entrance fee.
- Happy Hours: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM, with discounts on beer.
Charlie’s Bar
- Description: A cozy, European-style bar with a wide selection of international beers and a laid-back atmosphere. It’s perfect for a quiet evening with friends.
- How to Get There: Located on Minjiang 3rd Road, reachable by bus or taxi.
- Entrance Fee: Free entry.
- Happy Hours: 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM, with deals on draft beer and cocktails.
Revolucion Cocktail
- Description: This stylish bar offers a mix of Latin music, great cocktails, and a vibrant party scene. It’s known for its fun atmosphere and quality drinks.
- How to Get There: Located in the Hisense Plaza area, it’s accessible by metro Line 2.
- Entrance Fee: Free entrance.
- Happy Hours: 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM, with discounts on mojitos and other cocktails.
When to Visit Qingdao
- Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Qingdao is from May to October when the weather is warm and suitable for exploring the beaches and outdoor attractions. The Qingdao International Beer Festival in August is a major event that attracts thousands of visitors from all over the world.
Qingdao offers a harmonious blend of history, natural beauty, and modern culture. Whether you’re enjoying the scenic coastal views, exploring its German heritage, or savoring fresh seafood and local beer, the city promises a diverse travel experience.