Tucked away among the more famous spots of Qingdao like Qinyu Road, Longjiang Road, and Lu Xun Park, Little Qingdao Island remains an underrated treasure. This compact yet charming park offers stunning views of Zhanqiao Pier, breathtaking sunrises and sunsets, and an ideal setting for serene photos with minimal crowds. If you haven’t included this park in your Qingdao itinerary yet, now is the time to do so. Here’s everything you need to know about visiting this picturesque island, from transportation tips to the best photo spots.
Why Visit Little Qingdao Island?
Little Qingdao Island was originally named Qin Island, resembling the shape of a harp from an aerial view, and is surrounded by the sea on all sides. From here, you can catch a glimpse of the naval ships docked at the Naval Museum. A white lighthouse stands proudly on the island, having been repeatedly damaged and restored, yet it continues to stand strong and resilient. Other notable features of the island include a small train track, a Qin Maiden statue, and a shell-shaped pavilion, each waiting for visitors to discover their stories.
Ticket and Transportation
Ticket Information: Admission to the island is free. Simply scan the QR code to make a reservation before heading over.
Transportation:
- Bus: You can take buses 1, 25, or 26 to the “Lu Xun Park” stop, then walk to the island.
- Car: Navigate to “Little Qingdao Park.” There is a nearby parking lot, but spaces are limited, so it’s best to arrive early.
- Walking: If you’re near Zhanqiao Pier, you can walk along the coast to reach the park in about 15 minutes. If you’re coming from Qinyu Road, it’s a 10-minute walk.
Recommended Walking Route: Once you arrive from Qinyu Road, walk towards the left side of the island. Start at the Shell Pavilion, move on to the corner stone steps, pass the Dragon Cypress trees, then reach the lighthouse, and finish at the Naval Museum.
Best Photo Spots on Little Qingdao Island
Shell Pavilion: The irregular, curved roof of this pavilion resembles an open shell, providing a unique and picturesque backdrop. You can frame the ocean behind it for stunning photos. When it’s quiet, sit on the wooden benches, feel the sea breeze, and listen to the sound of the waves—it’s incredibly soothing and therapeutic.
Corner Stone Steps: These steps leading to the sea are often overlooked but are incredibly beautiful. It’s perfect to sit with your back to the sea, facing the pavilion for the best angle.
Dragon Cypress Trees : These coastal cypress trees paired with the blue sky and white clouds are ideal for snapping a popular Instagram shot.
View of Zhanqiao Pier: As you walk towards the lighthouse, you’ll see Zhanqiao Pier and the iconic red-roofed buildings in the distance. A long lens will help you capture this stunning panoramic view.
Naval Museum: Adjacent to Little Qingdao Island, the Naval Museum houses military ships. If you have extra time, you can explore the museum as well.
Helpful Tips for Your Visit
Best Time to Visit: For fewer crowds and soft lighting, visit before 10 AM. Alternatively, you can catch the sunrise or sunset for magical photos.
What to Wear: Simple, clean outfits work best, especially near the Shell Pavilion. Avoid overly complicated designs, as the natural backdrop is the highlight.
Photography Equipment: While a phone camera will suffice for most shots, if you’re photographing Zhanqiao Pier, a long lens is recommended for capturing the full beauty of the landscape.
Nearby Coffee Spots:
If you need a break or some refreshment after your visit to Little Qingdao Island, there are several coffee shops near Qinyu Road and Lu Xun Park, such as Wilder Coffee (维尔德咖啡), Koala One Coffee, and Hidden Garden (隐花园).