The self-titled ‘China’s Switzerland‘ might be a little misleading (the architecture is German), but that doesn’t detract from the splendor of Qingdao. Easily one of China’s most beautiful cities, this is a must-see for tourists in China.
There are a staggering number of sites in the city center, most of which can be broken down into two categories: century-old architecture and beaches. The beaches vary in quality and many are numbered but otherwise unnamed. The nicest beach is Shilaoren.
But the side of Qingdao that international tourists relish is the unique historic center. Germany received Qingdao on a 99-year lease in the late 20th century and immediately set about building a classic, Bavarian-style core. The churches, alleyways, residences and even the brewery are distinctly German and unlike anywhere else in China.
Getting There & Away
Qingdao has an international airport with limited international routes to regional cities like Seoul and Osaka. Otherwise there are quick, frequent connections to Beijing (1 hour, 30 minutes) where the list of international flights is extensive. Trains to Beijing take 10 hours, and buses take slightly longer.
Things to Do
Qingdao Attractions
- German Governor’s Residence
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This bavarian castle also housed chairman mao during a holiday visit.
- Jingsu Lu
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This street has a great collection of german architecture including the lutheran church.
- St Michael’s
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This catholic church was built in the 1930s and then ransacked during the cultural revolution, but locals have worked hard to preserve and rebuild.
- Tsingtao Brewery
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China’s finest brewery was founded by germans in 1903 and remains a major beer exporter to this day. call ahead for tours.
- Beaches
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Qingdao’s beaches are heavily touted by the local tourist brigade and can draw sizeable crowds on weekends, but this is the least noteworthy attraction for most tourists.