Location & How to Get There
Xiaoyu Mountain Cultural Celebrities Street sits in the heart of Qingdao’s Shinan District, just a stone’s throw from the sea. To find it, look for the intersection of Wendeng Road and Nanhai Road, then head west for about 118 meters. This area is nestled near Qingdao Ocean University, making it easy to combine a visit with campus sightseeing. If you’re coming from downtown, buses 6, 26, or 316 will drop you close by. For a more scenic approach, walk up from the coastal pedestrian road—just be ready for some steep slopes!
Natural Scenery: Hills, Sea, and Sunlight
The street’s charm starts with its setting. Xiaoyu Mountain towers nearby, offering lush greenery and ocean views. The area feels like a bridge between land and sea, with narrow lanes winding uphill. Sunlight filters through treetops, especially in spring and autumn, creating a cozy, almost secretive atmosphere. However, those slopes mean plenty of uphill walking—think of it as a free workout with stunning views!
Cultural Treasures: A Walk Through History
This street isn’t just about nature—it’s a living museum of Qingdao’s intellectual past. Once home to Shandong University’s original campus, the area attracted China’s top writers and scholars. Today, you can visit Xiaoyu Mountain Cultural Celebrities Street to see:
- Wen Yiduo’s House: The poet known for Dead Water lived here.
- *Lao She’s Home: The famous author of Rickshaw Boy penned works under this roof.
- *Shen Congwen’s Residence: The Border Town novelist’s quiet writing spot.
- *Wang Tongzhao’s Old House: A key figure in modern Chinese literature.
- *Hong Shen’s Bungalow: The pioneering filmmaker’s creative hub.
Some houses are now museums, while others are private homes. Respect “Private Property” signs, but even peeking at their vintage doors and windows feels like time-traveling.
Local Vibes: Quiet Days and Hidden Gems
Unlike Qingdao’s touristy coastal areas, Xiaoyu Mountain Cultural Celebrities Street stays sleepy. You’ll hear seagulls over car honks, and locals chat quietly on stone stairs. Look for tiny cafes serving bubble tea, family-run dumpling shops, and bookstores stacked with Chinese classics. For a break, sit on a moss-covered wall—just watch your step on the slippery slopes!
Tips for Your Visit
- Footwear: Wear comfy shoes! The street’s steepness turns a casual stroll into a leg workout.
- Timing: Mornings are peaceful, while late afternoons bathe the old houses in golden light.
- Combine with Nearby Spots: After exploring, walk 10 minutes downhill to the coast for ocean views.
- Respect Privacy: Some buildings are homes, so avoid loud voices or trespassing.
Final Thoughts: A Hidden Gem Worth the Climb
Visiting Xiaoyu Mountain Cultural Celebrities Street feels like flipping through a history book. The mix of literary legacy, hilly landscapes, and local life makes it Qingdao’s best-kept secret. Just pace yourself for the hills, and bring curiosity—you might leave inspired to read Lao She or Wen Yiduo’s work under the same sky they once gazed upon.