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1. Granite Mansion (Huashi Villa)
This Bavarian medieval castle built in 1903, with a tall round turret, chimneys, balconies, and Greek-style columns, was originally a Russian aristocrat's...
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- Attractions
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2. Protestant Church
One of Qingdao's more attractive sights, this simple but beautiful church was designed by German Curt Rothkegel in the style of a Western medieval...
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3. Qingdao Yingbinguan (Qingdao Welcome Guest House)
Built between 1905 and 1908 in the style of an old fortress with Tudor motifs, this magnificent building, the former residence of the German governor...
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- Culture
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4. Haijun Bowuguan (China Navy Museum)
Briefly wander through the drab indoor exhibition showing old photos and navy uniforms. Now on to the fun part: the outdoor exhibition of a torpedo...
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- Museums
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5. World of Tsingtao Beer
The Tsingtao beer factory was closed to the public until recently; now, it's become a must-see attraction for most visitors to Qingdao. The well-curated...
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6. Qingdao Catholic Church
The former St. Michael's Cathedral was designed by German architect Pepieruch in a Gothic and Roman style and built between 1932 and 1934 with...
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7. Haixin (Hisense) Plaza
- Fueled by the motto "honesty and integrity" this modernistic center offers customers a clean and convenient shopping environment. Opened in 1997,... read more
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- Shopping
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8. Dongtai Jusco Shopping Center
- One stop shopping is an overused description, but it fits perfectly with this giant Japanese owned mall. Contemporary in appearance, it carries... read more
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- Shopping
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9. Shell Carving Arts and Crafts Store
- Unlike many other arts and crafts stores that seem to confuse seashell key chains and pinecone shaped salt and peppershakers as "art," this popular... read more
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The Best of NileGuide
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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.
