Qingdao & Weihai Trip | Experiencing the Northern Seas (Qingdao Chapter)
| Experiencing the Northern Seas (Qingdao Chapter). Taking advantage of the off-peak travel season, a kid who grew up by the southern seas ventured to Qingdao and Weihai to discover the unique charm of northern waters. Originally, the plan was to fly from Guangzhou to Qingdao, then take a high-speed train directly to Weihai for two days before returning to Qingdao. However, failing to secure suitable train tickets forced a change of itinerary: exploring Qingdao first, then heading to Weihai.
✅ Itinerary: Guangzhou – Qingdao – Weihai
**Day 1**: Guangzhou – Qingdao – May Fourth Square
**Day 2**: Silverfish Alley – St. Michael's Cathedral – Dabaodao Block – Sanjiangli – Zhanqiao Pier
**Day 3**: Xiaomai Island – Badaguan – Second Bathing Beach – University Road (Instagrammable Wall) – Longjiang Road – Little Fish Hill
**Day 4**: Qingdao – Weihai (Xiaoshi Island – Huoju Eighth Street – International Bathing Beach)
**Day 5**: Cat Mountain – Jiangjiao Cape
**Day 6**: Weihai – Qingdao (Textile Valley) – Guangzhou
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**[Calendar] Day 1: Guangzhou – Qingdao – May Fourth Square**
Took a 7 AM flight and arrived at Qingdao Airport around 10:30 AM. Then, took the metro to Qingdao Railway Station (hotel nearby). After lunch, headed to May Fourth Square.
Heavy fog enveloped Qingdao upon arrival, shrouding both buildings and the sea in a mystical atmosphere. By afternoon, a downpour forced us to take shelter in a café near May Fourth Square, enjoying the rare tranquility of rain. The storm persisted into the evening, preventing further exploration. Dinner was at a restaurant near Zhongshan Road before returning to the hotel, concluding Day 1.
**[Calendar] Day 2: Silverfish Alley – St. Michael's Cathedral – Dabaodao Block – Sanjiangli – Zhanqiao Pier**
[RoundNails] **Silverfish Alley**: A 5-minute walk from Qingdao Station, this alley blends Qingdao’s historic European architecture with youthful, trendy elements. Though short, it’s packed with hip shops, restaurants, cafés, and dessert spots.
[RoundNails] **St. Michael's Cathedral**: A 10–15 minute walk from Silverfish Alley. Strolling along the tree-lined paths with cool breezes was delightful. The hilltop cathedral is visible from many angles, offering great photo ops.
**Dabaodao Block**: Located in Qingdao’s old town near Zhongshan Road and the cathedral, this vast area features traditional architecture, bustling shops, restaurants, and cultural museums. It’s a must-visit to experience Qingdao’s multicultural vibe.
[RoundNails] **Sanjiangli**: Further uphill from Dabaodao, the crowds thin out, offering a quieter, photogenic contrast to the lively cathedral and Zhongshan Road. This hidden alley, discovered by chance, resembles Silverfish Alley but with fewer shops—worth a detour if time allows.
[RoundNails] **Zhanqiao Pier**: At the end of Zhongshan Road, the pier park was briefly explored (no seagulls in season) before heading back to the hotel.
**[Calendar] Day 3: Xiaomai Island – Badaguan – Second Bathing Beach – University Road – Longjiang Road – Little Fish Hill**
[RoundNails] **Xiaomai Island**: A small island with sweeping sea views. The blend of grassy fields, blue skies, and ocean is breathtaking. A 20-minute taxi ride from Qingdao Station, followed by a short walk to the island.
[RoundNails] **Badaguan**: A famed scenic and historic district with upscale villas showcasing architectural styles from 20+ countries, dubbed the "Exhibition of World Architectures." Its tree-lined avenues are perfect for leisurely walks, with seasonal beauty. The main path leads to Second Bathing Beach for sun and sand.
[RoundNails] **University Road – Longjiang Road – Little Fish Hill**: Took the metro from Badaguan to University Road’s Instagrammable Wall, then walked to Longjiang Road (known for graffiti) and Little Fish Hill. Crowds were thick, so we didn’t linger, heading straight to Little Fish Hill for panoramic views of Qingdao’s red-roofed buildings against the sea. Note: The uphill climb requires stamina.
Due to heavy traffic, taxis are inconvenient here—metro is recommended.
**Note**: Sunny days in Qingdao and Weihai are a photographer’s dream—every shot is postcard-worthy! Hence, the photo-heavy travelogue is split. This chapter covers Qingdao; the next will detail Weihai, the return leg in Qingdao, and travel tips. [Grin]