When visiting Qingdao, a walk along the Seaside Boardwalk (滨海木栈道) is a must. Stretching from Tuandao Ring Road in the west to Shilaoren Park in the east, this coastal boardwalk spans approximately 40.6 kilometers, making it the longest seaside walkway in China. The boardwalk is built along the coastline, offering easy access to the sea, where the crystal-clear waves sometimes splash up onto your feet. Each section of the boardwalk is designed to harmonize with the surrounding environment, providing a unique and ever-changing scenic experience as you walk along.
The design of the Seaside Boardwalk was inspired by North American coastal pathways, and the pine wood used for construction was imported from Canada, specifically chosen for its resistance to long-term seawater erosion. In the lazy afternoon sunlight, relaxing in one of the boardwalk’s cafés or bars is a favorite pastime for many young people. The boardwalk is home to some of Qingdao’s most charming and trendy cafés and bars, drawing the attention of both locals and visitors. Notable spots include A Cup of Ocean Coffee House, Langyuan Bar, and Territory Café, all offering a unique blend of relaxation and seaside views.
Travel Information about Seaside Boardwalk
Tickets and Opening Hours
Tickets: Free
Opening Hours: Open all day
Getting to the Scenic Area
Location: The Qingdao Seaside Boardwalk stretches from Tuandao in the west to Shilaoren in the east, connecting nearly all of Qingdao’s coastal leisure and entertainment spots while showcasing the most beautiful seaside views.
Transportation: The boardwalk is quite long and passes through nearly all of Qingdao’s coastal scenic areas, making it accessible via several bus routes. Visitors can simply take the appropriate bus depending on which area they want to visit.
Scenic Ratings
- Beauty: ★★★★★
- Romance: ★★★★★
- Unique Features: ★★★★
- Relaxation: ★★★★
- Cultural: ★★
- Excitement: ★
Highlgihts of Seaside Boardwalk
Qingdao Sculpture Street
Stretching for about 12.8 kilometers along Donghai Road, Qingdao Sculpture Street is home to 11 sculpture parks with different themes, nestled among vibrant flowers and lush greenery. These sculptures create a breathtaking fusion of natural beauty and cultural heritage. The artworks primarily focus on Chinese civilization, using themes from Chinese history and Shandong culture, with a strong influence of maritime culture. Some of the key attractions include Haitao Park, Haiqu Park, Haifeng Park, and May Fourth Square. The sculpture “Between Heaven and Earth” in Haitao Park marks the starting point at the western end of Donghai Road.
Haitao Park
The centerpiece sculpture of Haitao Park, “Between Heaven and Earth,” utilizes modern artistic techniques, featuring a massive hand and foot vertically connected between a square column and a sphere. This symbolizes humanity’s noble aspirations and the power to build an ideal world. Along the seaside, 12 towering stone pillars are evenly spaced, forming the Century Corridor. These pillars highlight the theme of China’s 5,000-year-old civilization and rich cultural history. The granite’s heavy texture and the bold design of the pillars create a striking visual impact against the sea and sky. The carvings on the pillars depict famous historical stories and figures, such as Yao and Shun’s abdication, Yu the Great controlling the floods, the Four Great Inventions, Mencius’ mother relocating three times, Yu Gong moving mountains, the reconciliation of generals, Princess Wencheng, Zheng Chenggong’s recovery of Taiwan, Qi Jiguang’s fight against Japanese pirates, and Sima Guang’s dedication to historical studies.
Haiqu Park
Located east of Qingdao’s Children’s Activity Center, Haiqu Park features over ten sculptures designed to align with the aesthetic preferences of children. The sculptures are crafted to combine art with education, incorporating traditional Chinese historical stories such as Yue Mu’s Tattoo, Kong Rong Giving Away Pears, Cao Chong Weighing an Elephant, Sima Guang Breaking the Water Vat, Dancing to the Rooster’s Crow, and Bo Le Recognizing a Fine Horse. These well-known tales are creatively integrated into the sculpture designs, making the park both an entertaining and educational experience for young visitors.
Haifeng Park
Haifeng Park, though small in size, is rich in historical and cultural significance. The sculptures in this park are themed around the profound Qi and Lu cultures, showcasing the land’s rich history of producing extraordinary talents. Key sculptures include representations of Confucius and the Hundred Schools of Thought, Confucius with his students, Mencius teaching, Sun Tzu, Han Feizi, and symbolic representations of ancient Chinese civilization, such as the ceremonial tripod (ding), which signifies the heritage of Chinese antiquity.
What to Do along Seaside Boardwalk
Playing in the Water: Stroll barefoot along the sandy shores and shallow waters, letting your feet relax while occasionally spotting small crabs or sea snails to collect. It’s a simple pleasure, but be careful during high tide, as playing on the rocks can turn them into isolated islands, making it hard to return to shore.
Swimming: Swimming in the rolling ocean waves is far more exhilarating than a pool. Ride the waves, swimming freely like a fish. However, always swim at designated beaches with protective measures to avoid being swept out by hidden currents.
Fishing: Cast a line off the piers or large rocks, enjoying a leisurely fishing experience. The catch doesn’t matter as much as the feeling of peaceful idleness. Fishing rods of all kinds are available for sale along the boardwalk, and they are reasonably priced.