Located in the historically rich southern region of the Shandong Peninsula, Qingdao has been an important historic and economic center for the People's Republic of China for more than two centuries. Qingdao is a port city, basing much of its economy on its access to the Yellow Sea. Nowadays, the Qingdao attracts numerous Western tourists as a result of the unique blend of German and Chinese influences that can be seen throughout the architecture and culture of the city. At the end of the 19th century, Germany actually occupied the city for a brief time, leaving remnants of its architecture and urban planning in plain view for visitors today.
Alternatively known as Tsingtau (the name used during German occupation) and Tsingtao (its Western port name), this city offers a variety of things to do for visitors intent on learning about it's unique history or eager to soak up the vibrant cultural activities available throughout the year. Many first-time visitors find themselves intrigued by
Laoshan, the highest coastal peak in the country. On your visit, you'll find that this "Home of the Immortals," as it was known during ancient times, is not only a natural wonder with unique spires, gullies and piled ridges, but also a Taoist sanctuary. Several Taoist temples are open for visits.
Another tempting tourist destination, and with good reason, is
Tsingtao Brewery. Here you'll find yourself guided along (or guiding yourself, as tours need to be booked in advance) through the cavernous brewery where the nation's beer is made. Learn about its history while munching on peanuts and sipping from a cold glass of raw beer — yum!
Now that you're relaxed, finding some more cultural things to do is surely on your list. Head down to
Zhanshan Temple, a huge Buddhist temple in the heart of Qingdao. If your timing is just right, you may find yourself in town during the Temple Fair, when religious rites and traditional Buddhist music abound.
Before leaving, or better yet, before planning your trip, take note of the spectacular Cherry Blossom Festival, which is every year from mid-April to early May. With the largest collection of cherry blossoms outside of Japan, at nearly 20,000, you'll be overwhelmed by a sea of color and spring spirits.
10 Ju Yong Guan Lu
Shinan
A Romantic European Palace...
Laoshan, Qingdao, Shandong, China
Longshan Lu 26
Former Governor General Residence...
Shandong Province
By Land & By Sea...
65 Xingyang Lu
One Extremely Large Store...
Taiping Lu
Dowtown Location...
118 Songling Lu
Great Place to Play Golf...
206 3rd Yan'an Lu
Gifts, Souvenirs and More...
Daxue Lu
Art With A Heavy Historical Lean...
Coastal Lu
Laoshan Park
Cloud-Touching Peak...
40 Zhongshan Lu
No Cheap Imitations Allowed...
280 Liaoning Road
Zhushui Mountain
For the Young at Heart...
196 Zhongshan Lu
Traditional In Style and Stock...
212 Zhongshan Lu
Souvenirs Shopping...
12 Zhongshan Lu
Mammoth Department Store...
Old site of Beihai Shipyard
By Qingdao's Fushan Bay
By Land and By Sea...
9 Shandong Street
Shopping Made Convenient...
72 Hongkong Zong Lu
One Very Large Shopping Center...