Qingdao

Qingdao, a city in eastern China's Shandong province, has a rich history and coastal charm. You can explore red-roofed buildings from the early 20th century, swim at Golden Sand Beach, and taste fresh Tsingtao beer at its source. The mild weather and nearby Mount Lao make Qingdao an attractive destination year-round for those interested in architecture, outdoor activities, or local food and drink.

Getting to Qingdao by Air and Rail

You can fly into Qingdao through the new Qingdao Jiaodong International Airport, which opened in 2021. Shandong Airlines uses this airport as a hub, with flights to major Chinese cities and some international destinations. For travel within Shandong province, buses provide an affordable option. High-speed trains connect Qingdao to cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Jinan, arriving at the centrally-located Qingdao Railway Station. The station building itself is worth seeing, with its German colonial-style architecture recently updated to accommodate modern high-speed trains.

Walking Through Qingdao's German-Influenced Old Town

Qingdao's old town reflects the city's history as a German concession in the early 20th century. As you walk through the streets, you'll see red-roofed buildings and European-style villas that distinguish Qingdao from other Chinese cities. St. Michael's Cathedral, a Gothic Revival church completed in 1934, has twin spires that stand out in the cityscape. The Qingdao Protestant Church, with its red and yellow brick facade, is another example of the area's architecture. In the Badaguan Scenic Area, you can explore well-preserved mansions from the colonial era, surrounded by tree-lined streets that give the neighborhood a European atmosphere.

Enjoying Qingdao's Beaches and Coastal Areas

Qingdao's coastline includes several beaches for relaxation, swimming, or water sports. No. 1 Bathing Beach, close to the city center, attracts both locals and tourists. Its golden sand and calm waters are suitable for swimming, and the area has changing facilities and refreshment stands. For a quieter experience, you might prefer Golden Sand Beach in the eastern part of the city. The Zhanqiao Pier extends 440 meters into Jiaozhou Bay, offering views of the coastline. Many visitors come to the pier at sunset to watch the sky change colors over the water and see the city lights begin to appear.

Experiencing Tsingtao Beer Culture

Qingdao's beer culture centers around the Tsingtao Brewery, founded by German settlers in 1903 and now China's second-largest brewery. At the Tsingtao Beer Museum, you can learn about the brewing process and the brand's history, which is closely tied to Qingdao's own past. In the evenings, Beer Street fills with outdoor seating areas where you can drink fresh beer served in plastic bags - a local tradition that might surprise first-time visitors. If you visit in late July or August, you can join the Qingdao International Beer Festival, Asia's largest beer celebration, featuring brews from around the world alongside cultural performances and entertainment.

Sampling Qingdao's Seafood-Centric Cuisine

Qingdao's coastal location shapes its cuisine, with seafood as a key ingredient in many local dishes. You can try specialties like clams stir-fried with garlic and chili, which combines fresh shellfish with bold flavors. Sea cucumber, prepared in various ways, is considered a delicacy. The city also has its own version of dumplings, particularly pork and cabbage dumplings served with a tangy vinegar dipping sauce. For a quick snack while exploring the city, look out for vendors selling grilled squid on skewers, a common street food. To complete your meal in true Qingdao style, pair your food with a glass of locally-brewed Tsingtao beer.