Zhongshan Road Historical Block (中山路历史街区) stretches from Zhanqiao Pier in the south to Shichang Third Road in the north. As a symbol of old Qingdao, this area holds the memories and history of the city, once thriving as the heart of Qingdao’s vibrant urban life. Every resident of Qingdao recalls its former glory, a bustling hub that was central to the lives of generations. Although time has slowly faded its past vibrancy, the elegant European-style buildings still stand, silently telling the stories of Qingdao’s rich history.
Located along the Qingdao Bay coastline, the old streets were part of the early European-developed business and residential areas. Zhongshan Road and its surroundings have been renowned as Qingdao’s commercial center for over a century. As one of the cradles of the city’s history, the area is home to numerous remarkable buildings and street culture that reflect Qingdao’s past.
Travel Information about Zhongshan Road Historical Block
Admission and Opening Hours
Admission: Free; admission to the Zhejiang Road Catholic Church is 10 RMB.
Opening Hours: Zhejiang Road Catholic Church is open Monday to Saturday from 08:00 to 17:00, and on Sunday from 12:00 to 17:00.
Access to the Area
Location: Zhongshan Road area, Shinan District, Qingdao.
Transportation: You can reach the area by taking public buses No. 1, 25, 217, 218, 220, 222, 311, or 312.
Attraction Ratings
- Cultural Significance: ★★★★★
- Uniqueness: ★★★★
- Scenic Beauty: ★★★★
- Leisure: ★★★★
- Romantic Appeal: ★★★
- Adventure: ★★
Highlights of Zhongshan Road Historical Block
Qingdao Railway Station Building
If the small and medium-sized stations along the Jiaozhou-Jinan Railway are products of the fusion of Chinese and Western architectural styles, then the Qingdao Railway Station building stands as a pure example of German Renaissance architecture.
The construction of Qingdao Railway Station began in January 1900 and consists mainly of two parts: the clock tower and the waiting hall. The northern section serves as office space. The renovated station features buildings on the east, west, and south sides, enveloping the platforms in a U-shaped layout that is easily identifiable from above. The three station buildings maintain the original European style of red tiles and yellow walls, with white rain canopies gleaming in the sunlight.
The new railway station has set four records in China: it is the only European-style railway station, features the largest rain shelter span in the country, boasts the largest underground waiting area, and has the highest-spec VIP lounge in the nation. With its impressive new appearance, Qingdao Station has become a standout railway hub in China.
Yuelai Congee Shop
A visit to Qingdao Railway Station is not complete without stopping by the Yuelai Congee Shop (悦来粥店), which has become a staple for many locals and tourists alike. Known for its delicious congee, fresh ingredients, and affordable prices, the shop offers popular dishes like fish slice congee, carrot rib congee, wooden bucket tofu, steamed oysters, and spicy shrimp. The shop is located at 70 Guangxi Road, Shinan District.
Qingdao “Wall Street”
As you descend Feicheng Road, you’ll encounter Qingdao’s unique cobblestone streets. Upon reaching Zhongshan Road, a massive four-story building comes into view, known as Qingdao’s early “Wall Street.” This area houses the former sites of several prominent banks, including the Industrial Bank, Dalu Bank, Shanghai Bank, Bank of China, Jincheng Bank, and the Qingdao Banking Association, with the old site of the Communications Bank directly across the street. This location was once the epicenter of Qingdao’s banking industry, playing a crucial role in the city’s development.
Qingdao’s “Wall Street” bears witness to the city’s history, reflecting its changes and challenges. The evolution of Zhongshan Road has left a profound legacy in Qingdao, serving as a repository of historical memories.
Located at 44-60 Zhongshan Road, the Baisheng Shopping Center is one of the more bustling malls in the old city area of Qingdao. Offering a wide range of products from clothing and food to branded cosmetics, it caters to diverse shopping needs at reasonable prices, making it a popular destination for both locals and visitors. If you find yourself on Zhongshan Road, be sure to take some time to explore the mall!
Zhejiang Road Catholic Church
Zhejiang Road Catholic Church is the largest Gothic-style building in the Qingdao region. Constructed from yellow granite and reinforced concrete, the church features elegantly simple carvings on its surface. Its windows are semi-circular arched, with smooth lines that convey a sense of solemnity and simplicity. Above the main entrance, a massive rose window adds to the church’s grandeur, while twin bell towers rise on either side, each topped with a 4.5-meter high cross. Inside the towers hang four large bells, whose chimes can be heard for miles.
Upon entering the church, colorful stained glass windows filter in soft light, illuminating the interior. The vaulted ceiling is adorned with frescoes of saints, creating a breathtaking visual effect. The roof, covered in red tiles, adds to the church’s impressive and timeless elegance. This architectural gem not only serves as a place of worship but also stands as a significant landmark in Qingdao, attracting visitors for both its beauty and historical significance.
Former Residence of Liu Zishan
The Former Residence of Liu Zishan, located at 26 Zhejiang Road, was purchased by Liu Zishan in 1918 from a gentleman with the surname Min. Originally named “Anna Villa,” the house was built in 1901 and was specifically named by the architect Capler in honor of his daughter Anna, who was in Germany.
The residence features an open sea-view balcony to the south and a distinctive four-cornered tower to the east. Each of these structures has gables, with the southern gable being more elaborate than the eastern one. For most of its history, the balcony and windows on the second floor and above have offered stunning views of the sea, providing a serene and picturesque setting for its occupants. This charming villa not only showcases architectural elegance but also reflects the historical and cultural significance of the period in which it was built.
Guanhai Mountain Park
Located on Guanhai Second Road, Guanhai Mountain Park is one of the ten mountain parks in Qingdao, established in 1985 for visitors to enjoy scenic views of the sea.
The park’s design prominently features the theme of the sea. The main path is paved with pebbles collected from the ocean, creating a natural ambiance. Inside the main entrance, the corridor walls are adorned with a large mural titled “Underwater World,” depicting the beauty of marine life.
On the southern slope of the park, three pavilions resembling a jellyfish, a scallop, and a starfish provide unique spots for relaxation and reflection, enhancing the seaside theme. Additionally, the park showcases a series of lifelike sculptures that depict stories of Nezha, a popular figure in Chinese mythology, adding a cultural layer to the serene environment. Guanhai Mountain Park offers a delightful blend of nature, art, and maritime inspiration, making it a perfect destination for visitors.
Lao She Park
Located on Anhui Road in the Shinan District, Lao She Park is one of the most famous urban parks in Qingdao, known for its beautiful water features. The park is naturally divided into six smaller scenic areas, with a primary focus on aquatic landscapes.
The park is split into two sections by Hubei Road. The southern area features amenities such as a Water Curtain Cave and a long corridor, along with a half-length statue of Lao She, the esteemed Chinese writer. The northern section boasts a terraced overflow platform with multiple fountains, where water cascades down in a dynamic flow, creating the illusion of rushing toward the sea.
At the heart of the park stands the iconic Lao She sculpture, a large bronze statue situated on a red stone base beneath a centuries-old sycamore tree. This striking monument embodies the literary spirit of Lao She. The front of the base is inscribed with the name “Lao She” as penned by his wife, while a white marble inscription on the western side features an excerpt from his work “May in Qingdao.” Together, the tree, water, statue, and stone carvings create a culturally rich urban landscape that pays homage to one of China’s literary greats.
Visitor Guide for Zhongshan Road Historical Block
Walking Tour Through Zhongshan Road
Zhanqiao Pier (栈桥): Seaside Escape: At the southern end of Zhongshan Road, Zhanqiao Pier offers stunning ocean views and a tranquil ambiance to start your exploration.
Taiping Road (太平路): Lemon Yellow Summer Vibes: This youthful area captures a summer island feel with its cheerful yellow tones. It features a black-and-white carousel for Instagram-worthy photos, a food market, and cozy camping-inspired seating for a relaxing break.
Zhongshan Road (中山路): Orange Leisure District: Known for its vibrant orange hues, this street boasts a 3D naked-eye screen show and beautifully restored historic buildings like No. 17 Zhongshan Road (中山路17号), enhanced with dazzling marquee lights.
Sports District (体育街区): Green Energy Zone: Perfect for sports enthusiasts, this area includes basketball and soccer courts and large screens for live Olympic broadcasts, offering an energetic and inclusive atmosphere.
European-Style District (欧陆风情体验区): Pink Elegance: A photogenic pink-themed street featuring Qingdao’s landmark Catholic Church (天主教堂). This area hosts markets, live performances, and events like electronic music water parties, adding a lively, cosmopolitan flair.
Feicheng Road (肥城路): International Food Market: Savor flavors from around the world at this bustling market, where live music performances add to the multicultural vibe.
Tai Xing Li (太兴里): Buzzing Entertainment Hub: A microbrewery district with various beer shops and street performances. It’s the perfect spot to unwind with a drink and enjoy local talent.
Sifang Road (四方路): Republic of China-Themed Street: Step back in time on this street inspired by the early 20th century. Its nostalgic ambiance makes it an excellent backdrop for photos.
Sanjiangli (三江里): Artistic Haven: Explore unique, art-inspired shops along this street, brimming with creativity and charm.
Dabaodao (大鲍岛): Relaxation and Entertainment: A blend of delicious cuisine, live performances, and specialty shops ensures there’s something for everyone in this leisurely district.
Ending Point and Convenience: The route ends conveniently at Zhongshan Road Metro Station (中山路地铁站), making it easy to hop on the subway and head back to your hotel after an exciting day of exploration.
Accommodation Options
Along Zhongshan Road, several hostels and inns are popular among backpackers and students, offering a mix of comfort and affordability. Notable options include:
Seasons Sea Youth Hostel (四季海青年旅舍)
A charming hostel located on Zhongshan Road, very close to the Catholic Church and the Pi Chai Courtyard. The environment is pleasant, making it a great choice for students.
Phone: 15064811085
Qingyouji Youth Hostel (青游记)
Situated on Feicheng Road in the Shinan District, this hostel is conveniently near the Qingdao Railway Station, making access to the Zhanqiao Pier and Zhongshan Road shopping street easy. The common area is well-equipped with free computers, a projector, a bookshelf, and a karaoke machine, enhancing the communal experience.
Phone: 0532-86120188
Top Food Stops on Zhongshan Road
Hongfa Hong Pastry Shop (宏发红西饼屋): This traditional bakery sells its famous pastries by weight. Their Red Bean Fried Cake (红豆炸糕) is a standout with its rich filling and crispy texture. The nostalgic Old-Style Sausage Bread (老式香肠面包) is also a must-try, and the Red Bean Bread stuffed with yogurt filling is deliciously unique.
Kaixue Ice Cream (凯雪冰激凌): Kaixue is Qingdao’s own gelato brand, known for being both affordable and delicious. The mint-flavored option is refreshingly cool, though it might remind you of toothpaste. However, it evokes childhood memories for many locals and remains a delightful treat.
Wang Jie Barbecue (王姐烧烤): This barbecue spot is a favorite among tourists, offering juicy and tender skewers of pork belly and tenderloin. The generous portions and flavorful marinades make it a great dining option, especially considering its reasonable prices for a tourist area.
Quqi Cookies (趣奇家): Quqi is the place to satisfy your cookie cravings, offering a wide selection of flavors. The Mint Chocolate Cookie, while flavorful, leans more on the chocolate side, but other options like matcha promise to impress. Don’t miss experimenting with different flavors on your next visit!
Ruby Cake Shop (红宝石蛋糕店): A local favorite, Ruby Cake Shop is known for its Qingdao-style pastries. The Chestnut Cake (栗子蛋糕) is particularly popular, packed with natural chestnut flavor and a nutty aroma, making it a perfect balance of sweetness and texture.
Di’er Handmade Wonton Shop (地二手作馄饨铺): If you love wontons, this handmade wonton shop is a must-visit. Their Seafood Wonton Platter is a feast of thin wrappers and generously filled dumplings. Don’t forget to sip on the soup first for the ultimate experience!