Qingdao, an old port city situated on southern coast of Shandong, is a quaint and popular spot. It lies between mountain and sea, a well-chosen coastal port with clear deep waters and a comfortable climate.

For thirty-three years, up to 1949, Qingdao was a colony of Germany and Japan. Thus, Qingdao has a great deal of European architecture. This foreign architecture -a remnant of the colonial past- now beautifies this seaside city.

In cooperation with the Beijing Olympic Games 2008, Qingdao will hold 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.

Climate£º
Qingdao enjoys a temperate, semi-humid climate. The best time for travelers is from June to September,when the temperature stays between 20 and 28 degrees C. In late August, in particular, the seawater is warm, the prime time for swimming and sunbathing on the coast (and participating in the Beer Festival, August 12-16).

Out of peak season, the city can get a little windy so bring a coat, although at such times the crowds will be much diminished and you get the chance to smile at the Y-fronted old men daring the brisk water!!

Local Features: Oriental Switzerland
Sitting against mountains and facing the vast ocean, Qingdao is a beautiful seaside city noted for its attractive architectural styles and beautiful natural scenery, both of which, coupled with its mild climate, make the city well known as a summer resort. In August, the hottest month of summer, the average  temperature is just 25.1 degree C.

Qingdao, as a tourist city, boasts relics of New Neolithic Age, Tianheng Island, Lang Ya Terrace and caves in Zhu Mountain. The steep peaks and grotesque stones in Laoshan, with the seaside scenery in urban area, constitute numerous scenic spots. There are mysterious grottos such as Naloyan Grotto and Baiyun Grotto, and beautiful streams such as Taiyi, Shenshui, and Jinye. Quite a number of  ancient celebrities left their footprints everywhere in Qingdao and wrote many poems to appreciate the picturesque scenery. As a former colony of Germany during W.W.II, you can feel a strong alien atmosphere, particularly in view of the hundreds of villas in the city.