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Explore the Former Site of the German-Style Official Residence, which offers a glimpse into Qingdao's colonial past. The building is an excellent example of German architecture from the early 20th century. Take a guided tour to learn about the history and significance of this landmark, and enjoy the surrounding beautiful gardens.
Located on Signal Hill in the heart of Qingdao's old city, the German-style residence was built over a century ago during the German occupation of Qingdao. It's a beautiful German castle-style building with a palatial wooden interior, and even today, its luxurious furnishings rival those of a European palace.
It is located on the hillside of Signal Hill, backed by the mountain and facing the sea. Although it has gone through many vicissitudes in the past hundred years, its basic value remains shining, and it is known as the "former site of the German-style official residence."
In terms of historical and cultural connotations and architectural value, no other Western-style building created in China in the 20th century can compare to this. And for Qingdao, a city renowned for its history and culture, the German-style residence has become a vivid microcosm of the century-long evolution of this cultural city we live in.
Qingdao is located in the northern temperate monsoon region and has a temperate monsoon climate with humid air, abundant rainfall, moderate temperature and distinct four seasons.
It is recommended to play for two hours
15 yuan/person
08:30-17:30
The Former Site of the German-Style Official Residence was built during the period of German colonial rule in Qingdao. It served as the residence of German officials in the early 1900s, reflecting the city's German architectural influence. The residence is significant as a symbol of Qingdao’s historical connection to Germany and its transformation into a modern Chinese city.
The site is located in the Shinan District of Qingdao, near the central area. It is easily accessible by taxi, or you can take a bus to nearby stops. Walking from downtown Qingdao is also a good option for those who enjoy exploring the city on foot.
The site is open daily, from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is in the spring or autumn, when the weather is mild and pleasant. Weekdays tend to be less crowded than weekends.
The entrance fee is around 30 RMB. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the ticket counter, and there is usually no need to book in advance, although online ticket purchase options may be available.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary, but it is recommended during peak tourist seasons. Tickets can be purchased on the day of your visit.
A visit to the Former Site of the German-Style Official Residence can take around 1 to 2 hours, depending on your interest in the history and architecture of the building.
The building itself is the main highlight, with its distinct German-style architecture and historical significance. Be sure to visit the rooms where German officials once lived and the surrounding gardens that offer a peaceful atmosphere.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and there may be limited options for English-language tours. Audio guides are sometimes offered, but it's best to check ahead for availability in your preferred language.
The best photography spots are around the exterior of the building, especially from the garden area. The architecture and surrounding landscape make for beautiful photos, particularly in the golden hour light.
Start by exploring the exterior and the garden, then head inside to view the well-preserved rooms that reflect the German colonial style. A leisurely tour around the building and garden will give you a complete experience.
Currently, there are no night visits or light shows available at this attraction. The site is best explored during the day when the architectural details are fully visible.
The site can get crowded during weekends and public holidays. To avoid the crowds, it’s best to visit in the early morning on weekdays, especially outside of peak tourist seasons.
Basic facilities are available, including public toilets and rest areas. However, there are no major food or water vendors on-site, so it’s advisable to bring your own water and snacks if needed.
The site is accessible to elderly and children, but the building’s historic nature means it may not have the best accessibility features for visitors with disabilities. Be prepared for some steps or uneven surfaces.
Cash is still widely accepted, but mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are commonly used in Qingdao. Credit cards may also be accepted in some places around the site.
There are several local restaurants and cafes near the site, offering a variety of Chinese and Western dishes. You can find traditional Qingdao seafood, as well as casual coffee shops for a quick break.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available at some local restaurants, though halal food options may be limited. It’s recommended to check with the restaurant staff in advance if you have specific dietary preferences.
There are numerous hotels near the site, ranging from budget to luxury. Popular options include the Qingdao Marriott Hotel and Sofitel Qingdao, which are within a short drive or walking distance from the site.
Nearby attractions include the Qingdao Old Town, the famous Zhanqiao Pier, and the Qingdao Olympic Sailing Center. All are within easy reach and make for an interesting day trip combination.
There are souvenir shops in the area selling traditional Qingdao handicrafts, such as embroidered textiles, tea, and local artwork. You can also find small items reflecting the city’s German colonial history, such as postcards and miniatures of the building.
After visiting, you can take a taxi or bus to other parts of Qingdao. Public transport options like buses and metro are convenient for reaching nearby attractions, and taxis are readily available throughout the city.
