Qingdao Hotels

The Shandong star parlays a number of positive attributes into a reputation as one of the most livable urban hubs in the country. A major regional pulse point, Qingdong overlooks the Yellow Sea and, like all good seaports, is a vital base for trade, commerce and industry. Though archaeological finds in the province hint at human settlement as far back as 6,000 years ago, Qingdao’s modern development began in earnest under the Qing Dynasty.

The presence of the Tsingtao Brewery owes much to the German Kiautschou Bay concession at the turn of the 20th century, from 1898 to 1914. Outside of the lager producer, only a few relics from the era hang on as the city expands at exponential clips. Some notable architecture from the colonial period survives, however, in the form of landmarks like the Guest House, St. Michael's Cathedral and Governor's House. That these points of interest still lurk amid a feverish skyline race is a boon for intrepid tourists in the eminent Shandong city.

QINGDAO'S TOP 10

QINGDAO EVENTS

Qingdao International Beer Festival draws lovers of suds out of their hovels every summer for a few quaffs under the sun.

China Ocean Festival is a month-long celebration of the ocean’s bounty, from late July to late August.

Qingdao International Beach Festival takes place over five days in October at No. 1 Bathing Beach.

China Qingdao International Hot Air Balloon Festival is one of the most popular annual festivals in Shandong province.

China International Marine Fair and Boat Show lures the global pleasure craft community to Qingdao.

WHEN TO GO

Qingdao straddles the continental and subtropical climactic zones and and enjoys four distinct seasons, from hot and humid summers to cold winters. The city experiences heavy intervals of rain in June, July and August.

At the height of summer, temperatures range from 64°F (18°C) to 82°F (28°C). Lows in January and February approach 27°F (-3°C).

With mild conditions and scant precipitation, the months of May and October emerge as the most comfortable for Qingdao visitors on the whole.

GETTING AROUND

With many ways to access a metropolis like Qingdao, one of the most memorable has to be the ferry from Incheon, South Korea. Total journey time is approximately 16 hours. A similar ferry from Shimonoseki, Japan completes the trip in 24 hours.

Qingdao Liuting International Airport serves more than 11 million passengers a year, good enough to place it 15th in China. The hub connects to every major destination in the country and the likes of Taipei, Busan, Seoul, Osaka and Tokyo.

The train is the most convenient mode of transport for many. Qingdao Railway Station links with counterparts in Beijing, Shanghai, Tianjin, Jinan, Guangzhou, Chengdu and more.

Until the completion of a vast subway system, the best way to get around Qingdong is by taxi, bus or trolley. The city has an extensive network of bicycle paths.

GENERAL INFORMATION

ATTRACTIONS & ACTIVITIES

RESTAURANTS & NIGHTLIFE

CLIMATE