The Pier

Situated in Qingdao Bay south of Qingdao City, off Zhongshan Road, the pier stretches into the sea from the shore. The Pier, or Zhan Qiao, which appears on Tsingtao beer bottles, has been a landmark icon for more than a century.

It is one of the most popular places in Qingdao to go for a stroll. Built in 1891 as a 440 meter long military pier jutting out into Qingdao Bay, it features a pavilion above the water, named "Huilan Pavilion", at the end of the pier. From the top of the pavilion, visitors enjoy a magnificent view of the sea. When looking back at the city from the pavilion, Qingdao's evergreen-studded hills and red-tiled European-style roofs built in the occupation era are easily visible. The views from here contrast sharply with the towering modern buildings looking down upon the old German Concession area with its mixture of churches, parks, and red clay tiles interrupted by dark green pines.

The pavilion is also a small exhibition hall where art shows & photography exhibitions are often displayed. Vendors cram the pavilion's interior selling everything from souvenirs to ice cream. At the other end of the pier is the Zhanqiao Pier Park; have a seat at the park and take in the pleasant seaside scenery and fresh sea breeze. The entire area is a must on any tourist's itinerary.