Qingdao City Guide

Seafood and Qingdao BBQ are local highlights. The city has good international options and a lively late-night food scene. Vegan and vegetarian choices are growing but limited.

Nightlife centers around the Olympic Sailing Center and coast with bars and some clubs, busiest in summer.

Coffee culture is growing with more specialty shops and local roasters, blending with the relaxed city vibe.

Tipping is not expected or customary in Qingdao. It is rare except possibly at high-end international hotels or tours.

SIM cards require ID registration and are sold at major carrier stores. China Mobile has the best coverage; China Unicom and Telecom may offer better international service. eSIMs are limited.

The city is generally clean, especially in tourist areas, with improving public restrooms and regular waste pickup.

Convenience stores operate 24/7. Some pharmacies and hospital emergency departments are open late, but night clinics are limited.

Supermarkets like Carrefour, Walmart, and local chains offer international and local products. Wet markets are common for fresh produce and seafood. Most supermarkets open 8/9 AM to 9/10 PM and stay open on Sundays.

Mobile payments via WeChat Pay and Alipay are used everywhere. Cash is rarely accepted, especially by small vendors.

ATMs are mainly at big banks like Bank of China, ICBC, and China Construction Bank. Most accept Visa and Mastercard, but fees may apply.

Two notable international schools offer instruction in English with Mandarin as a second language. Apply early due to waitlists.

Nomad community is small with informal expat groups on WeChat. Few dedicated remote work events or co-living spaces.

Parks like Zhongshan Park and the coastal boardwalk provide shaded paths and open space.

The coastal boardwalk and parks provide safe, scenic running routes. Local running clubs exist and the city hosts an annual marathon.

Many gyms including international chains and hotel facilities are available.

Tennis courts are available at sports complexes and hotels; booking in advance may be needed.

Padel is less common but slowly growing with few available courts.

Several yoga studios offer popular styles; drop-in and memberships are common, some have English-speaking instructors.

Traditional Chinese martial arts schools are common, offering Tai Chi, Wing Chun, and Sanda. Fewer options for other styles; some schools have English-speaking instructors.

Small ski resorts are 1-2 hours away with mostly beginner slopes and artificial snow.

Kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing are popular, especially near the Olympic Sailing Center with quality rentals.

Surfing spots are few and only suitable for beginners when conditions allow. No surf schools.

Coastal waters aren't suitable for diving or snorkeling due to poor visibility and limited marine life.

Good quality public hospitals and private clinics. Some staff speak English in international hospital departments. Pharmacies are common, with some English-speaking staff at larger ones.

Tap water is not safe to drink directly; boil or use bottled water.

Good family facilities with playgrounds and kid-friendly spots. Beaches and aquariums are popular attractions for kids.

LGBTQ+ acceptance is low with limited public spaces and no legal protections. Discretion is advised.

Pet ownership is possible but public restrictions apply. Veterinary services exist, but pet-friendly accommodations are limited.