Qingdao

Qingdao, China

This coastal city of eastern China's Shandong province is hailed as a gem on the shores of the Yellow Sea. Located on a peninsula, it boasts picture-perfect sceneries and a genial climate. Its eclectic mix of different architectural styles is a reminder of the city's early exposure to western influences. Beer lovers are taken with the city for the annually celebrated Oktoberfest.

Do and See

• Zhanqiao

  The 440-meter-long, 8-meter-wide jetty is one of the best vantage points of Qingdao. It used to be a commercial wharf built during the German occupation. It has survived a century's worth of elements, and even today, its structure and workmanship still impress.

• Wusi Square

  This modern iconic site was built in commemoration of the nationwide patriotic May Fourth Movement of the early 20th century. Fountain music and lights at night draw a crowd; sculpture "Wind of May" shaped like a torch is the city's new landmark.

• Badaguan

  This neighborhood can be aptly described by “red roof tiles, green trees, vast sea and azure sky”. Architecture from over 20 countries line eight streets.

• Qingdao Olympic Sailing Center

  The former site of Beihai Shipyard was turned into the venue for the sailing competitions of the Olympics Beijing 2008. It's part of the local government's ambition to turn the city into the "Capital of Sailing".

• Laoshan

  This state 5A class mountainous destination is great for the outdoorsy. Its 1,133-meter-high peak, the highest on China's east coast, yields show-stopping sunrise moments.

  
  
  
• Shilaoren Beach

  It's one of the biggest beaches and a very much visited attraction in Qingdao. Around 100 meters away from the coastline stands a 17-meter-high rock, conjuring up the image of an old man sitting on the sea.