Location & How to Get There
Xiaoyushan Park sits in the heart of Qingdao’s scenic Shinan District, nestled near the famous Badaguan Villas area. The address is No. 24 Fushan Branch Road, Badaguan Street, just a short walk from the coast. To reach it, take Qingdao Metro Line 3 to Zhanqiao Station or Lamoshi Station, then hop on a bus (like Bus 26 or 31) heading toward Badaguan. If you’re already exploring the coastal attractions, it’s an easy 15-minute walk from Zhanqiao (the iconic pier) or Xiao Qingdao Park. Taxis are also convenient, but be prepared for narrow, winding roads in this historic neighborhood.
Natural Scenery: Panoramic Ocean Views
At just 100 meters tall, Xiaoyushan might sound tiny, but its location makes it a hidden gem for ocean views. Climb the gentle trails, and you’ll reach the summit in minutes. From the top, you can see Qingdao’s skyline stretched out like a postcard: the red-tiled roofs of Badaguan, the curved arc of Zhanqiao, and the turquoise waters of Huiquan Bathing Beach. On clear days, even the yellow tower of Xiao Qingdao (a tiny island) pops into view. Locals call this the “Red Tiles, Green Trees, Blue Sea, Clear Sky” scene—a phrase that perfectly captures Qingdao’s charm.
Cultural Highlights: The Lanjiao Pavilion
The park’s centerpiece is the Lanjiao Pavilion, a three-story, octagonal tower topped with green glazed tiles. Standing 18 meters tall, it’s designed in traditional Chinese style, with wooden railings and open windows perfect for photo ops. Fun fact: the mountain was originally nameless until it got the nickname “Little Fish Mountain” (Xiaoyushan) because it’s near Yushan Road. Clever, right? The pavilion’s best-kept secret? Climbing to the third floor for a 360-degree view—it’s like having a private balcony over the city.
Practical Tips: What to Bring
Xiaoyushan Park is free to enter and open daily from 8 AM to 6 PM. Wear comfy shoes—the paths are rocky but well-trodden. Bring sunscreen and a hat, especially in summer, and plan to visit early or late in the day to avoid crowds. There’s no food inside the park, but nearby Badaguan has cute cafes. If you’re thirsty, a small tea stall near the entrance sells drinks. For history buffs, check the plaques explaining how the park blends classical Chinese design with Qingdao’s German colonial past.
Why It’s Worth a Visit
Even if you’re short on time, Xiaoyushan offers a quick escape from the busy coast. It’s ideal for:
- Photographers: Sunrise/sunset shots with the sea as a backdrop.
- Families: Kids love spotting ships in the harbor or racing up the pavilion stairs.
- Romance: Cozy benches along the trails make a perfect quiet date spot.
Pro tip: Pair your visit with a stroll through Badaguan Villas (just 10 minutes away) or a dip at Huiquan Bathing Beach afterward. And don’t forget to snap a pic holding up the pavilion in the background—it’s become a viral Qingdao souvenir shot!
This pocket-sized park packs in Qingdao’s signature beauty without the tourist chaos. Whether you’re here for the views, history, or Instagram gold, Xiaoyushan Park delivers.