An old saying captures the essence of Qingdao City: swimming in the sea, drinking Tsingtao Beer, eating fried clams and climbing Mt. Laoshan.
The first must-see attraction is Zhan Bridge (Zhanqiao). Zhan Bridge is one of the important symbols of Qingdao. Qingdao Railway Station is a five-minute walk away. Entrance to the bridge is free, but to enter Huilan Pavilion at bridge end costs CNY 2. Opposite Zhan Bridge on the other side of the street is Zhanqiao Hotel in a prime location. To the north is the bustling commercial street, Zhongshan Road. Take Bus No. 26 to see all these sights for only CNY 1.
Huiquan Bathing Place, also called First Bathing Place, is in Huiquan Bay, famous for soft sands, limpid seawater and mild waves. The bathing place is free of charge and open all day. You can reach the site by buses No.6, 15, 26, 214, 311, and 312.
Golden Sand Beach: with tepid seawater in the Xuejia Dao (Xuejia Isle) receives high praise yet draws fewer people.
The Badaguan Scenic Area, also known as the Ten Thousand Country Architecture Garden, features foreign villas and paths. The area of the Eight Passes Villas is very pleasant; each pass has its own tree species. The Princess Building and the Huashi Building are open to the public in the daytime. The Huashi Building was home to the president of Kuomintang, Chiang Kai-shek. The Gothic-style Princess Building located at No. 10, Juyongguan Road; Eight Passes Villas Scenic Area has become a popular background for wedding photos. The spot is next to the 2nd Bathing Place. You can get there by buses No. 26, 31, 304, and 316.
Xinhao (Signal) Hill Park: No. 18, Longshan Road. You can reach the park by buses No. 228, 217, 220 and 214. From Circling Hall, you can catch the panoramic view of Qingdao.
Mt. Laoshan: Famous as the cradle of Chinese Taoism, Mt. Laoshan is regarded as the No. 1 Mountain on the sea. Spending one or two days climbing Mt. Laoshan will enrich your trip to Qingdao. The best season to climb is from May to October. During this period, abundant rainfall and charming sights enrich the experience. Wild vegetables from Mt. Laoshan are expensive, but you can ask for a taste from a farmer. Take the bus at Huaneng Square.
Qingdao has much to see, not only the features mentioned. Other sights, including other bathing places, for example, Small Qingdao Island is famous for its unspoiled natural scenery, which includes steep rocky outcrops and a variety of trees. Qingdao Seashore Scenic Area is a beautiful place that integrates mountains, seawaters and architecture. Qingdao Number One Bathing Beach is noted for its clear water, mild waves and soft sand. All of them are inviting your exploration. And don't forget to take part in Qingdao International Beer Festival, which enjoys a worldwide fame and attracts millions of people to share the city's unique beer culture.
Travelers' Voices on Qingdao Attractions
1.
Apr. 11,2009 10:13 Reply
Mr.ph(Malaysia) said:
I'm visiting Qingdao end of this month ( April ).It is my first visit and have not much idea which area should I stay ? I'm here merely to visit the Qingdao Food Fair.Within 2 nights I wish do a quick observation on the youth trendy life style. Anyone can share ?
2.
Mar. 19,2009 03:00 Reply
Mr.bond (China) said:
foreigners in Qingdao msn Group: group436703@msnzone.com , Join in to make friends in Qingdao and know what you want to know :)
3.
Mar. 16,2009 22:01 Reply
Ms.Monica(Qingdao) said:
I guess you may come to Qingdao before, or you are just living in Qingdao now !
Yes, the Ocean Park is really wonderful.
hope everybody have a good time in Qingdao.
4.
Feb. 3,2009 04:49 Reply
Mr.Pospisil(Poland) said:
why don't you mention the Ocean Park, this is a real attraction for young and old