- Qingdao, Shandong, China -
1. General Situation
Qingdao, located in the southeast part of Shandong Province, is a beautiful seaside city. It is near to the Yellow Sea to the east and south, Yantai to the northeast, Weifang to the west and Rizhao to the southwest. Qingdao is one of the most beautiful coastal cities in China. Qingdao Port has been open to 177 ports around the world, bringing Qingdao to the most prosperous city in Shandong.
Tourists who visit Qingdao can explore cultural relics like churches, historic German architecture and former residence of celebrities in the Qingdao Old Town while viewing beautiful natural landscapes including parks, bathing beaches in coastal areas. Be sure to go to Beer Street to taste the local Tsingtao beer whose best partner is always barbecue. In addition, Pichai Food Street, Yunxiao Road Food Street, and Mai Island seafood Street offer the freshest seafood, and authentic Qingdao snacks. Qingdao International Beer Festival, the biggest beer festival in Asia, is held on the second weekend of August every year and lasts for 16 days. The whole city will be decorated and people can taste beer from the world.
2. Qingdao Travel Tips
History: For thirty three years, up to 1949, the city was a colony of Germany and Japan. Thus, it has a great deal of European architecture. This foreign architecture -a remnant of the colonial past- now beautifies this seaside city.
Foods: The food here is with distinctive flavors--especially seafood. So take this chance to enjoy the delicious seafood. Also, the city is the home of the famous Tsingtao Beer. Do not forget to try it when visiting the city.
Local Highlights: The local government recognizes the importance of the tourism industry and has further plans to develop the local tourism. To enhance the tourism industry, the city now sponsors the International Beer Festival, the International Sea Festival, Beach Culture Festival, the Sea Affection Festival, and the Summer of Qingdao Festival. In cooperation with the Beijing Olympic Games 2008, the city held the Sailing Competition in the Olympic Games in 2008. This great event brings a great opportunity for this charming city to build its bright future.
