Qingdao, known for its “red tiles, green trees, blue sea, and azure sky,” boasts breathtaking scenery that every visitor must experience. For the best panoramic views of these iconic features, Xiaoyu Hill Park (小鱼山公园) is the ultimate destination. As one of the easiest hills to climb in Qingdao, this park offers a leisurely outing ideal for families, seniors, and even wheelchair users. Just a short five-minute walk up a gentle slope brings you to some of the city’s best vantage points, making Xiaoyu Hill a top spot to enjoy sunsets, cityscapes, and sea views.
Essential Information about Xiaoyu Hill Park
How to Get There
- By Metro: Take Line 3 to Renmin Huitang Station (人民会堂站) and use Exit B. From there, it’s a 700-meter walk to the park.
- By Car: Driving is not recommended, as the narrow roads make parking difficult.
Admission: Free, with no need for prior reservations.
Hours:
- April 1 to October 31: 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- November 1 to March 31: 6:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Top Highlights of Xiaoyu Hill Park
1. Lanchao Pavilion (览潮阁, Tide Viewing Pavilion): Standing at the hilltop, this three-story, octagonal structure with green glazed tiles is the park’s centerpiece. At 18 meters tall, its design resembles a fish’s head, creating a distinctive architectural style. The pavilion provides a panoramic view of Qingdao’s vibrant urban landscape and stunning seaside vistas. With blue skies, red rooftops, and lush greenery in every direction, Lanchao Pavilion is a photographer’s paradise.
2. Bibo Pavilion (碧波亭, Blue Wave Pavilion): Situated west of Langchao Pavilion, Bibo Pavilion is a charming hexagonal gazebo with the same green glazed tiles. Its location offers serene views of the sea and city, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and reflection.
3. Yongcui Pavilion (拥翠亭, Embracing Green Pavilion): To the east of Lanchao Pavilion lies Yongcui Pavilion, a quieter, more secluded spot. Surrounded by lush trees, it feels like a peaceful guardian of the park. Visitors often come here to enjoy moments of calm away from the crowds.
Tips for Visiting Xiaoyu Hill Park
- Sunset Views: Current sunset times are around 6:55 PM. Arrive at the park’s north gate by 6:30 PM for the best experience.
- Path to the Top: From the entrance, take the right-hand uphill path. The walk takes only five minutes.
- Free Access to Lanchao Pavilion: Be mindful of the stair directions – ascend on the left and descend on the right.
- Best Photo Spots:
- Right Side of the Hilltop: Capture the contrast of red-tiled roofs and lush greenery against the setting sun.
- Left Side of the Hilltop: Snap views of the First Bathing Beach (第一海水浴场), Signal Hill (信号山), and the TV tower.
- Framed Sunset Photos: If buildings obstruct your sunset view, step back to the uphill path and use the gaps between the trees for creative framing.
- Hidden Gems Outside the Park:
- A white cross pathway offers another picturesque angle.
- Walk straight after exiting (don’t turn left) to find these Instagram-worthy spots:
- Ocean framed by buildings
- A scenic S-shaped downhill path, featuring Qingdao’s signature cobblestone streets.
- A rainbow staircase leading to the First Bathing Beach.
Recommended Routes from Xiaoyu Hill Park
Route 1: History and Nature Tour: Xiaoyu Hill Park (小鱼山公园) – Zhanqiao Pier (栈桥) – Navy Museum (海军博物馆) – Xiaoqingdao Island (小青岛) – Lu Xun Park (鲁迅公园)
This route blends Qingdao’s maritime history and cultural landmarks with its coastal beauty.
Route 2: Beach and Shopping Getaway: Xiaoyu Hill Park (小鱼山公园) – Kang Youwei Former Residence (康有为故居) – First Bathing Beach (第一海水浴场) – Badaguan Scenic Area (八大关)
Perfect for beach lovers, this route offers a mix of seaside relaxation and the chance to shop for unique souvenirs in the Badaguan area.
Guanxiang Hill, Signal Hill, or Xiaoyu Hill: Which Offers the Best Panoramic Views of Qingdao
1. Guanxiang Hill (观象山) – Elevation: 70 meters
Main View: Cityscape
Guanxiang Hill is an excellent spot for taking in the city’s layout. From here, you can get a good view of the Catholic Church on the hill, though the vegetation at the top does obstruct some of the sightlines. The view of the old town is the most striking, but the sea is mostly blocked. Therefore, it’s not ideal for watching the sunset over the sea.
If you’re hungry after the hike, there’s a fantastic breakfast place nearby: Xiao Lin Yuan BBQ Huoshao (小林媛烤肉味火烧). Their huoshao (baked buns) are crispy on the outside and tender inside, while their duck egg yolk wontons are salty and savory—both are highly recommended!
2. Signal Hill (信号山) – Elevation: 98 meters
Main View: City, Qingdao Bay
Signal Hill provides a better view of the coastline and the city. There are two entrances to the hill, but make sure to take the north entrance to avoid a steeper climb and long lines. At the top, you can climb the signal tower, but while the view is decent, the glass is often dirty, so it may not be worth the ticket price.
The area around the Dragon Spitting Water (龙吐水) is more open, offering a good view of the Zhanqiao Pier, Little Qingdao Island, the Green-roofed Church, and the German Governor’s Residence. With a telephoto lens, you can capture some beautiful photos. The sunset here is picturesque, with golden light casting over the old city, though the view of the sea is less impressive, and the beach coastline is hard to spot.
3. Xiaoyu Hill (小鱼山) – Elevation: 60 meters
Main View: Huiquan Bay, First Beach, and the Back of Badaguan
Xiaoyu Hill is the closest to the sea, offering the most stunning views of the coastline. The hill’s summit platform is high and mostly unobstructed, making it the best spot for a panoramic experience of Qingdao’s coastline. You can also enjoy the beautiful sunset here, as the views are unobstructed and stunning.