Situated in the Shandong province, Qingdao is a scenic coastal city in Eastern China. It is bordered by the Yellow Sea to the east and south, Yantai to the northeast, Weifang to the west, and Rizhao to the southwest. Known as one of China's most stunning coastal cities, Qingdao has established Qingdao Port, connecting it to 177 ports globally and solidifying its status as the most prosperous city in Shandong. Recently, over the Labor Day Holiday of 2024, I had the delightful opportunity to explore this charming city. Join me as we embark on a journey to uncover the treasures of the City of Beer in today's article. Cheers to our trip to Qingdao!
Like Shanghai, Qingdao was merely a small fishing village in the late 1800s. However, in 1891, the Qing Empire initiated military developments along the Qingdao coast to fortify against naval threats. Shortly after, the German Navy noticed these fortifications and in 1897, they seized control of the area, establishing the first European colony on mainland China. Germany then secured a 99-year lease agreement with the Qing for occupation. Upon assuming control, the Germans rapidly constructed broad streets, robust residential areas, governmental structures, and a sewer system. They introduced electricity and clean water, which were scarce across much of China at that time. Many of the structures erected by the Germans still endure today, standing in notable contrast to both traditional and contemporary Chinese architectural styles.
Naturally, as Germans, they also established a brewery. In 1903, the German Brewery was founded, marking the introduction of beer to the Chinese populace. Subsequently renamed Tsingtao Brewery, it played a pivotal role in solidifying Qingdao's reputation as 'The Beer City' in China. Over fifty years ago, Tsingtao Beer commenced its journey into the international market, ultimately becoming China's top-selling beer globally. making it also the first Chinese company to go public outside of China.
ladies and gentlemen, Tsingtao!
Located on the historic grounds of the former Tsingtao Brewery Company, known as the ancient German Beer Company Qingdao Branch, the Qingdao Beer Museum stands as a testament to the city's brewing heritage. Established in 1903 as China's inaugural brewing factory built with European technology, it served as the precursor to the Tsingtao Brewery Company. Today, the museum oversees 55 brewing and malt factories across 18 cities and provinces in China, embodying the century-long legacy of Tsingtao Beer. Situated at No. 56 Dengzhou Road, the Qingdao Beer Museum holds the distinction of being China's first of its kind, offering a captivating exhibition of local beer culture to international visitors and earning the admiration of the local community.
In the museum, one can see historic sepia and black & white photographs; appreciate the cultural relics from both home and abroad and see samples of Qingdao beer kept from different eras. The four huge copper brewing vessels are kept in Qingdao Beer Museum and were manufactured in Germany and were in use until their decommissioning in 1995. Historical artifacts donated by the descendants of both German and Japanese staff are especially precious and absorbing. Here, you will have the opportunity to get close to the mysterious origins; the long history of brewing and instruments used. Visitors can also sample the various freshly brewed beers and buy a great variety of souvenirs.
🍻 The Qingdao Beer Festival.
The Qingdao Beer Festival, also known as China Oktoberfest, has been a cherished tradition since its inception in 1991, originally conceived as part of Qingdao City's centennial celebrations. Initially spanning two weeks, the festival kicked off with a grand opening concert and ceremony, leading into a myriad of activities including beer tasting, evening entertainment, drinking competitions, carnival events, and culminating in a themed closing ceremony. Held at ZhongShan Park, adjacent to TianTai Stadium on WenDeng Road, these inaugural festivities marked the beginning of a cultural phenomenon. Over the years, the Qingdao International Beer Festival has evolved into Asia's premier annual beer extravaganza, boasting participation from over 200 beer brands worldwide. Typically spanning from late July to August, the festival attracts beer enthusiasts and revelers alike. The upcoming 2024 Qingdao International Beer Festival – China Oktoberfest will take place from July 19th to August 11th, 2024, at Golden Sands Beach, WanRen Square, situated along Qingdao's picturesque West Coast.
Aside from beer, Qingdao, a coastal city in China, is also famous for its beautiful beaches, such as:
— ShiLaoRen (Old Stone Man) Beach stands out as one of Qingdao's most remarkable tourist destinations, named after the distinctive rock formation found off the ShiLaoRen peninsula. Legend has it that this column of stone, jutting out into the sea, is the petrified remains of an elderly fisherman. According to the tale, his daughter was abducted by malevolent pirates, and consumed by grief, he spent every day of his life waiting on the beach for her return, watching the ceaseless rhythm of the waves. With each passing tide, his hopes were dashed anew, until his desolate figure was transformed into stone, forever frozen in mourning for his lost daughter.
Qingdao's also offers outdoor enthusiasts opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and exploring lush forests and Taoist temples, adding a diverse dimension to its tourist appeal thanks to its proximity to scenic mountain ranges such as:
— Laoshan Mountain, also known as Mount Lao or Laoshan National Forest Park, graces the shores of the Yellow Sea, situated to the east of Qingdao city, spanning an expansive area of 446 km². Rising majestically from the sea, Laoshan is intricately connected to the coastal landscape, spreading out in all directions from its central point – Jufeng, the highest peak. To the west, the terrain gently slopes into low, sprawling ranges, while to the east, it transforms into rugged, towering peaks adorned with deep valleys and cascading waterfalls. Along its coastline, Laoshan boasts a mesmerizing display of rocks, islets, and bays, adding to its allure. Revered as a renowned Taoist mountain, Laoshan captivates visitors with its awe-inspiring peaks and breathtaking coastal vistas. The Taoist temples nestled amidst its slopes, coupled with the enchanting sights of sunrise and sea clouds, have earned enduring acclaim. Bestowed with titles such as "No. 1 coastal mountain" and 'fascinating and blessed place,' Laoshan has emerged as a premier destination for sightseers and holidaymakers alike, offering an unforgettable escape into nature's splendor.
>> Others spots to see in the Laoshan scenic area: Taiqing Scenic Spot 太清游览区; Yangkou Scenic Spot 仰口游览区; Jufeng Scenic Spot 巨峰游览区; Liuqing Scenic Area 流清游览区; Qipanshi Scenic Spot 棋盘石游览区; Hualou Scenic Spot 华楼游览区; Beijiushui Scenic Spot 北九水游览区.
Must eat in Qingdao: Sea Food & Colorful Dumplings.
Qingdao, being a coastal city in China, is famous for its fresh seafood, or 海鲜 (hǎixiān) in Chinese. The city's proximity to the Yellow Sea ensures a bountiful supply of various marine delicacies. Some of the popular Qingdao sea fruits include:
— Sea Cucumbers: Considered a delicacy in Chinese cuisine, sea cucumbers are often braised or stir-fried with vegetables.
— Abalone: Highly prized for its tender meat, abalone is often served braised or in soups.
— Sea Urchins: Known for their creamy texture and sweet taste, sea urchins are often enjoyed raw or used as a topping for sushi.
— Clams and Mussels: Qingdao's coastal waters are rich in clams and mussels, which are used in various dishes such as hot pots, stir-fries, and soups.
— Shrimp and Prawns: Fresh shrimp and prawns are abundant in Qingdao and are prepared in numerous ways, including stir-frying, steaming, and grilling.
— Crabs: Qingdao is famous for its hairy crabs, which are often steamed and enjoyed with ginger and vinegar dipping sauce.
— Scallops: Qingdao's scallops are renowned for their freshness and sweet flavor. They're commonly grilled, steamed, or stir-fried with garlic and vermicelli.
You can also try the Qingdao colorful dumplings, also known as 'Qingdao jiaozi'. These dumplings are a specialty of Qingdao, a coastal city in China's Shandong Province. They're called 'colorful' because of their vibrant appearance, which is achieved by adding natural ingredients like spinach, carrot, and beetroot to the dumpling dough. Beyond their visual appeal, Qingdao colorful dumplings are often enjoyed during festivals and celebrations, symbolizing good fortune and unity among family members.
Qingdao's emblem: 五四广场.
Last but not least: Qingdao's May Fourth Square (五四广场) bears its name in commemoration of the historic May 4th Movement. Dominating the square is a striking red sculpture symbolizing the 'May Winds' that swept through during the movement, now an iconic emblem of modern Qingdao. This monument serves as a poignant reminder of the May Fourth political movement, ignited by outrage over the Japanese occupation of Qingdao in 1919.
Established in 1996, the May Fourth Square occupies a strategic position between the new municipal government building and FuShan Bay. Comprising the ShiZhengTing Square, the central square, and the coastal park, each segment boasts distinctive characteristics, blending local Qingdao elements with contemporary design. Beyond its role as a tourist destination, the square serves as a symbol of Chinese nationalism and marks the genesis of a burgeoning cultural consciousness in China.
While Qingdao may not always be at the top of foreigners traveler's list, this coastal gem has a unique appeal all its own. Spring and autumn emerge as the prime seasons to experience its beauty, offering ideal weather and a more laid-back atmosphere. Besides its beer culture, Qingdao harbors a trove of hidden treasures and captivating stories just waiting to be explored, by you! Thank you for reading. May God bless you, take care.
One more thing before you go... If you have appreciated this post, I would like to ask you to please take a few more seconds to like button, comment, or share, that's how I can know that my work is indeed useful. Be blessed.Sources:
Comments