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At Badaguan Scenic Area, visitors can:
The Badaguan Scenic Area, located north of the Huiquanjiao Scenic Area, borders Huiquan Bay to the west and Taiping Bay to the south, boasting a strategic location. Originally named "Badaguan," it had eight roads named after the passes. Later, two more were added, bringing the total to ten quiet and refreshing roads crisscrossing the area. This scenic area best embodies Qingdao's distinctive "red tiles, green trees, blue sea, and blue sky."
One of the hallmarks of the Badaguan Villa District is its diverse architectural styles, earning it the nickname "International Architecture Expo." The area showcases architectural styles from over 20 countries, including Russia, Britain, France, Germany, the United States, and Denmark. The complex also boasts 18 gardens of varying sizes, perfect for couples seeking romance and weddings.
In addition to admiring the buildings, you can also enjoy the beautiful scenery of Badaguan in all seasons. Shaoguan Road is planted with peach trees, which bloom in spring; Zhengyangguan Road is planted with crape myrtles, which bloom in summer; Juyongguan Road is lined with maples, which turn red in autumn; and Zijingguan Road is lined with rows of cedars, which are evergreen all year round.
The four seasons are suitable for visiting. In addition to admiring the buildings, you can also enjoy the four-season beauty of Badaguan. Shaoguan Road is planted with peach trees, which bloom in spring and are pink like ribbons; Zhengyangguan Road is planted with crape myrtles, which bloom in summer; Juyongguan Road is lined with maples, which are dyed red by frost in autumn; and Zijingguan Road is flanked by rows of cedars, which are evergreen all year round.
Huashilou
The most famous and representative villa in Badaguan, it is built in the style of a typical European castle, incorporating elements of Greek and Roman styles, as well as Gothic architectural features. Built of granite and cobblestones, it is named Huashilou.
Princess Building
It is like something out of a fairy tale, delicate and lovely. It is said that this building was built by the then Danish Consul General in Qingdao for the Danish Princess to stay in when she came to Qingdao for summer vacation. In fact, the Danish Princess never came to Qingdao, but the name "Princess Building" spread.
Recommended play time: 2-3 hours
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Huashilou 8.5 yuan/person
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Badaguan Scenic Area is a historical district in Qingdao, known for its collection of European-style villas built during the early 20th century. The name "Badaguan" refers to the eight roads in the area, each named after famous places in China. The area is significant for its blend of Western and Chinese architectural styles, as well as its role in the city’s colonial past.
Badaguan Scenic Area is located in the eastern part of Qingdao, near the coast. It can be accessed by taxi, bus, or on foot from downtown Qingdao. The nearest metro station is "Zhongshan Park" on Line 3, which is a short walk from the scenic area.
Badaguan Scenic Area is open year-round, with the best time to visit being from spring to autumn when the weather is mild. The area can get crowded during weekends and national holidays, so weekdays are recommended for a more peaceful experience.
There is no entrance fee for Badaguan Scenic Area. However, if you plan to visit specific villas or historical sites within the area, there may be a small fee. Tickets for these sites can typically be purchased on-site.
No advance booking is needed for the general scenic area. However, for special tours or villas that may require tickets, it is advisable to check availability and book in advance during peak seasons.
You can explore Badaguan Scenic Area in about 2-3 hours, depending on how much time you spend in each villa and the surrounding parks.
Must-see highlights include:
Guided tours are available in Chinese and sometimes in English, depending on availability. Audio guides are not commonly provided, but tours can be arranged for larger groups.
The best photography spots are:
Start by exploring the main streets lined with the villas, then head to the hilltop for panoramic views of the city. Conclude your visit by relaxing at the beach or taking a boat ride from Zhongshan Park.
Night visits are not common, but the area is beautifully lit up at night. Light shows or special tours are not typically available, but the atmosphere of the area at dusk is serene and ideal for evening photography.
Badaguan Scenic Area can be crowded during weekends and public holidays, particularly in the summer. The least crowded times are weekdays, especially in the morning or late afternoon during the off-season (autumn and winter).
Facilities include public restrooms, small cafes, and shops selling souvenirs and snacks. There are also several resting spots and benches along the pathways to relax and enjoy the view.
Badaguan Scenic Area is relatively accessible for elderly visitors and children, though some areas with steep hills may be challenging. Disabled visitors may find certain parts of the area difficult to access due to the terrain.
Mobile payments (Alipay, WeChat Pay) are widely accepted in the area, though cash may still be needed in certain local shops. Credit cards are not always accepted.
There are a number of cafes and restaurants offering local Qingdao cuisine near the scenic area. The area also has several options for quick bites and tea houses for a relaxing break.
Vegetarian and vegan food options are available at most local restaurants. Halal food may be limited but can be found in specific restaurants catering to Muslim visitors.
There are several hotels and guesthouses near Badaguan Scenic Area, ranging from budget to mid-range options. More luxurious accommodations can be found in downtown Qingdao, which is easily accessible by public transport.
Nearby attractions include:
There are several souvenir shops offering items like Qingdao-style porcelain, local handicrafts, and tea sets. Popular souvenirs also include marine-themed products and local snacks.
After visiting Badaguan Scenic Area, you can easily continue your trip by taxi, bus, or metro. Qingdao's public transport system is efficient, and taxis are readily available for further sightseeing.
