Zhanqiao Pier

The basics

Stroll south along the pier until you reach the two-story Huilan Pavilion, built in the classical Chinese style with overhanging eaves and 24 lacquered pillars. The pavilion often hosts art, photography, and other exhibitions. At the other end of the pier, find the beautifully landscaped Zhanqiao Park, filled with Japanese pine trees and ornamental flowers.

Zhanqiao Pier is included in many Qingdao sightseeing tours, along with other popular attractions such as Badaguan Scenic Reserve, Xiaoyushan Park, and Tsingtao Brewery. Opt for a private tour to fully customize your itinerary. Day trip tours from Jinan and Beijing by bullet train are also available.

Things to know before you go

• It’s free to access Zhanqiao Pier and Zhanqiao Park, but there is a fee to enter Huilan Pavilion.
• Don’t forget your camera; the pier and pavilion offer wonderful sea and city views.
• There are usually many vendors selling snacks, drinks, and souvenirs along the pier.
• The beach nearby is popular for swimming, sunbathing, and clamming (during low tide).

How to get there

Zhanqiao Pier is located along Taiping Road, near the intersection with Zhongshan Road. Take Metro Line 3 to Qingdao Railway Station (exit G), then walk southeast for around 10 minutes. You can also take bus numbers 25, 223, 225, 304, 307, 312, 316, 321, or Sightseeing Bus no. 11.

When to get there

Zhanqiao Pier is open around the clock and can be visited at any time. It’s a very popular attraction and can get extremely busy, especially over the summer and during the week-long holidays in May and October. Visit in the fall or winter to see the area full of seagulls. At night, you can see Huilan Pavilion all lit up.

Little Qingdao Island

Not far from Zhanqiao Pier is Little Qingdao Island, known for its natural beauty, including steep rocky outcrops and a variety of trees, such as cherry, pomegranate, and hibiscus. Many statues and pavilions also dot the island, and a two-story white lighthouse stands at its highest point.