With the sun continuing to sizzle overhead, a variety of niche attractions in Qingdao, Shandong province, offer some often-overlooked and less crowded ways to beat the heat.

In Shibei district lies the Beillingshan Forest Park, where deafening traffic gives way to green mountains and a clear lake. Willow trees and a cool summer breeze give the illusion that spring is already here. Walking on the footpath, where trees tower above and the lake ripples gently alongside, every breath taken is fresh and vivid.

The Beillingshan Forest Park is full of vibrant plants and traditional buildings. [Photo/WeChat account: qd12301]

Further north lies Qijian valley, which is teeming with delightful scenery such as mountains covered with lush green trees, trickling streams and rare stones. In the rainy summer, seven stronger streams surround the valley like a silver necklace, providing the perfect escape form the suffocating heat.

A European-style log cabin sits in the Baiguoshan Forest Park. [Photo/WeChat account: qd12301]

In the south-eastern section of downtown is the Baiguoshan Forest Park, where the ecosystem remains intact. Log cabins in the forest provide the perfect place to relax soak in the quaint European aesthetic. A country park in the same district, called Wushan Mountain, offers many authentic rural sights, along with a stunning view of the sunrise and a sea of clouds at its peak.

A pavilion surrounded by lush bamboo trees in the Zhuzian Park. [Photo/WeChat account: qd12301]

Another park, named Zhuzian, is a great place to appreciate the lush bamboo forest and huge ginkgo trees.

Numerous less well-known attractions can be found in Qingdao, waiting for tourists who want to escape the chaos of the city and enjoy the rustic charm of the countryside.