Friends cycle together in group of threes and fives to travel through the alleys and lanes and get some idea of the hidden scenery in the city. Ranging from a low-carbon stylish mode of travel, a brand new way of socializing to a continuous stream of contests, cycling is finding increasing favor and is chosen by a number of citizens and tourists to travel around Qingdao in an “immersive” manner.

31-year-old Lan Kun, a veteran cyclist, and his friends develop a habit of cycling two or three times every week. It is advisable for Lan Kun to cycle from his home to his place of work, about 5km apart from each other. He has become fond of this sport after half-year commuting by bike. “The section from the Old Stone Man to Liuqing River boasts both mountain and sea views, such as golden beaches, the deep blue sea and luxuriantly green pines and cypresses. All troubling matters are gone with the wind while I cycle.” said Lan Kun.

According to statistics, Qingdao is home to about 50,000 cycling enthusiasts and thousands of regular cyclists. As a result, an increasing number of cycling clubs and groups have emerged. Furthermore, cycling, a burgeoning sport, has helped cycling races spring up in Qingdao.

In May this year, the 2023 endurance cycling race around Laixi Lake, famous for the fabulous green roads along the lake, attracted the participation of over 1,000 cycling enthusiasts from across the country. In August, the 2023 “SCO Summer” open cycling tournament was attended by more than 350 cycling enthusiasts nationwide. In October, the 2023 Beizhai autumn cycling climb contest was kicked off in Wolong Village and Bangshi Village. Hundreds of enthusiasts gathered in Beizhai and enjoyed the beautiful scenery while cycling speedily on country hill roads. In December, participants in the Zhushan Mountain national forest park cycling climb challenge satisfied their craving.  (Wang Lei)

Chinese and foreign cyclists attend the public service cycling event launched by the international talent voluntary service corp in the Qingdao Area of China (Shandong) Pilot Free Trade Zone.  By Wang Lei