Qingdao in winter days is quiet but beautiful.

In the Zhanqiao Pier scenic area, hundreds of thousands of sea gulls that make their appearance as expected have intimate interactions with tourists standing on the shore, composing an exhilarating scene in the city. Throngs of artists show up from time to time to play music alive.

Taking a stroll in the ancient urban area is analogous to traveling back and forth between the past and the present. Stylish ornaments, trending fragrances and handmade ceramics are displayed in an orderly way in Minimall. Qinyu Road is packed with young people. Streams of people and fully occupied cafes seem to reflect that the summer season has never given its way.

The ocean in winter days provides the best backdrop against which sightseeing in Qingdao is made. Tourists can board a pleasure-boat in the Olympic Sailing Center to chase after sea gulls and waves. Wherever the boat sails, white-hulled yachts and bluish waves set off each other, and modern skyscrapers as well as red tiles and green trees are seen in succession. When the pleasure-boat that departs from the Hongdao Dongdayang Terminal or Qingdao Ferry Terminal sails across the Jiaozhou Bay Cross-sea Bridge, the sea and the sky seem to merge into one, and the city’s skyline appears to rise and fall on the sea surface, being vast and close.

Laoshan Mountain in winter days looks more free-spirited. When it clears up after snowing, Jufeng Peak is covered with snow atop, and the Jiushui Scenic Spot is frozen, where soft rimes give trees tremendous glamour. Atop Jufeng Peak, tranquility of snow-covered mountains and solemnness of the surging sea co-exist, composing a harmonious scene unique to Qingdao, and naughty wild monkeys are so fascinated by the view that they jump over rocks and trees to have amusement with tourists.

Qingdao in winter days prides itself on spectacular mountain and sea views. Winter tourism in Qingdao is no longer a seasonal label, but delivers citywide experience throughout the four seasons. (Ma Xiaoting)

Tourists are crossing the bridge on the sea to enjoy the tangerine-colored sea scenery. By Zhao Jianpeng

Wild monkeys add surprises and interest to the daily trip on the top of Laoshan Mountain. By Dong Zhigang