Qingdao draws tourists from across country

In mid-August, Qingdao, Shandong province, experienced an influx of tourists from across the country, all eager to revel in its coastal allure. From iconic tourist attractions to maritime festivals, the city's marine-related tourism industry was in full bloom.

Qingdao's coastal charm has long been a magnet for tourists, drawing them to its shores for an experience that blends scenic beauty with maritime culture.

Among the favored activities are pleasure boat rides, allowing visitors to bask in the vast expanse of the sea and the city's landscape.

The pleasure boat business, managed by State-owned tourism enterprise Qingdao Tourism Group, achieved a milestone on Aug 12 as revenue from a total of 14,677 passengers crossed the 1 million yuan ($137,000) mark, according to Ye Qian, director of the group's business development department.

Most of these boats embark from marinas located at the picturesque Qingdao Olympic Sailing Center. Here, tourists are treated to a bustling maritime ambiance, a testament to the city's maritime culture and history, she said.

The excitement was elevated by the commencement of the Qingdao International Sailing Week and the Qingdao International Marine Festival on Aug 11.

These events continued until Aug 20. The festivities encompass sailing competitions, leisure tourism activities and cultural exchanges.

Qingdao Underwater World, China's first aquarium, generated over 4 million yuan in revenue on Aug 12 alone, said Wang Jinyue, deputy general manager of the aquarium.

Xiaomai Island Scenic Area has also attracted many.

Li Li, an undergraduate student from Harbin, Heilongjiang province said: "I had seen photos of Xiaomai Island on social media before, but the reality is even more breathtaking. Qingdao's coastal landscapes are truly extraordinary."