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At Qingdao Pier, visitors can:
The Qingdao Pier is a scenic spot in the Qingdao Seaside Scenic Area. As a landmark of old Qingdao, it has stood as a timeless witness to the city's history. The hundreds-meter-long pier, like an arrow, shoots into the depths of the sea, with Huilan Pavilion and Qindao Lighthouse echoing in the distance.
The Qingdao Pier is 440 meters long and 8 meters wide, constructed of steel and concrete. A semicircular breakwater sits at the south end of the bridge, within which stands a two-story octagonal building in traditional Chinese style, known as the "Hui Lan Pavilion." Visitors can admire the crashing waves from the pavilion, and this "Flying Pavilion and Hui Lan" scene is known as one of the "Ten Scenic Spots of Qingdao." Along the north bank of the bridge is the "Pier Park," home to lush flowers, trees, green pines, and grass. Stone benches are also provided for visitors to relax and enjoy the panoramic sea and sky views.
Best from May to October
Recommended play time: 1-3 hours
free
Peak season : 07:00-19:00
Off-season 08:00-17:30
Qingdao Pier, also known as Zhanqiao Pier, was built in 1892 during the German colonial period. It served as a dock for military and commercial ships. The pier is an iconic symbol of Qingdao’s maritime history, and its design incorporates both European and Chinese architectural elements. It remains one of the most photographed landmarks in the city.
Qingdao Pier is located in the Shinan District of Qingdao, near the city's Old Town. It is easily accessible by taxi, bus, or walking from downtown Qingdao. The nearest metro station is "Zhongshan Park" (Line 3), which is a short walk from the pier.
Qingdao Pier is open year-round, with no specific opening hours. The best time to visit is during the late afternoon or early evening when the weather is mild and the sunset provides great photo opportunities. Early mornings and weekdays tend to be less crowded.
There is no entrance fee to visit Qingdao Pier. However, if you wish to take a boat ride or visit the nearby attractions such as the Qingdao Marine Museum, there may be additional fees. Tickets for these can be purchased on-site.
No advance booking is required for visiting the pier itself. However, for boat tours or special attractions nearby, it is recommended to check availability and book in advance during peak seasons or holidays.
Exploring the pier itself typically takes about 1 to 2 hours. If you plan to visit nearby attractions or take a boat tour, allow additional time.
Must-see highlights include:
Guided tours are available in Chinese, and some English-speaking tours can be arranged. Audio guides are not commonly available, but local tour companies may provide personalized services.
The best viewpoints are:
Start by walking along the pier, taking in the views of the sea and nearby buildings. Then, visit the Qingdao Marine Museum or explore the nearby Old Town. Conclude your visit by enjoying a boat ride along the coast or taking a leisurely walk on the beach.
While the pier itself does not have light shows, the area is beautifully lit at night, making it a great place for evening photography. Special boat tours are available in the evenings, offering views of Qingdao’s waterfront and skyline.
The pier can get crowded, especially on weekends and public holidays. To avoid the crowds, visit during weekdays or early mornings. The off-season months (autumn and winter) are generally less crowded.
Facilities around the pier include public restrooms, cafes, and small shops selling snacks and souvenirs. There are several benches along the pier for visitors to rest and enjoy the view.
The pier is mostly accessible for elderly visitors and children, though there are some uneven surfaces. However, the area can be challenging for disabled visitors due to the limited accessibility of some sections of the pier.
Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are widely accepted around the pier and in nearby shops. Cash may still be needed in some smaller establishments, but credit cards are not commonly accepted.
There are several cafes and seafood restaurants nearby, offering a range of local dishes and international cuisine. You can enjoy Qingdao’s famous seafood, including fresh fish and shellfish, at restaurants along the coast.
Vegetarian and vegan food options are available at many of the restaurants near the pier. Halal food options may be limited but can be found at specific establishments catering to Muslim visitors.
There are several hotels near Qingdao Pier, ranging from budget options to more luxurious accommodations. Popular areas to stay include the city center, which is within walking distance of the pier, as well as nearby beachfront hotels.
Nearby attractions include:
There are numerous souvenir shops around the pier selling local crafts, Qingdao-style porcelain, seafood products, and souvenirs related to the city’s history.
After visiting Qingdao Pier, you can easily continue your trip by taking a taxi, bus, or metro to other attractions in the city. The public transport system in Qingdao is efficient, and taxis are readily available.
