Qingdao from myth to reality.

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When it comes to China, there are many stereotypes going on about its cities. For instance “Wuhan temperatures are just unbearable”, “Shanghai is such an unhuman city” or “Qingdao is full of seaweeds and facekinis”.

I was recently given the opportunity to visit Qingdao and I am happy to declare it one of the most charming and lovely places in China.

  

           Residence of former German Governor                                                Sunset in the Laoshan montains

Chinese history in a nutshell

Because of the short but largely tracable occupation of the city by the Germans from 1887, the invasion of Japanese troops in 1938 and the long presence of Mao Tse Toung, Qingdao, embodies most of China recent history.  I especially like to walk near Yishui Road, sort of  “little Bavaria”, or stroll in Badaguan whose beautiful villas were built in the 30’s under the Chinese Republic.

                      Protestant church

But Qingdao is not only a city from the past. Its thriving economy makes the city a major employment area with industries like Haier or the world famous Tsingtao brewery, not to mention its vibrant harbour and navy (Chinese brand new aircraft-carrier is stationned in Qingdao).

Living close to nature

The most striking aspect of Qingdao is its wonderful sand beaches that can all be accessed by public buses. The largest one is definitely Shi Laoren, a three kilometers long sand stripe facing the China Sea. Some kind of local Copa Cabanna!

  

       Evening waves in the city center                              Fifty years old beach lovers

All year long, incredibly healthy and tanned fifty years old men play volley-ball, swim or train their muscles in a kind of Santa Monica style, though looking slightly older than their Californian counterparts. This ambiance is very different from the pictures of tourists wearing facekinis to protect their skin from the sun, that have been broadcasted by the media. In the evening, local people sometimes gather by the jetties to play with the massive waves. 

 

                            Shi Laoren beach

Only thirty kilometers away, the beautifully ocre Loashan montains give visitor the opportunity of long hikes between the numerous taoïst temples overlooking the sea. There, views are simply breathtaking!

Kindness and enjoyable life

Among the last but not the least reasons which make me like Qingdao, is people’s simple and kind smile when you ask your way or information to taxi drivers, swimmers or hotel personnel.

  

                            Relaxing after bath                                                              Draft beer with seafood

If I add to this already attractive picture the many cheap and still delicious meals of fresh seafood with draft Tsingtao beer, you might not believe me.

So I definitely advise you to go and check it out by yourself. I am sure you will love Qingdao, just like I love it myself.

If you want to know more, feel free to contact me:  didier.pujol@chinaworldexplorers.com