Cherry Blossom Viewing and Seafood Feast in Qingdao: Zhanqiao & May Fourth Square
Every encounter in life is fate. Starting the trip to Qingdao, recording the beautiful mood.
Spring has flowers, autumn the moon; summer has cool breeze, winter awaits snow. If there are no idle worries in your heart, it is a good season in the world. The monotonous life and repetitive work have worn away our enthusiasm and passion. At such times, we need an impulsive trip to soothe the soul, rediscover love, live authentically, and be ourselves.
The hotel was booked at Laoshan Blue Sea Hotel, close to the subway, with good service and decent food. First, we went to Stone Old Man, which is nearby – just one subway stop away. I had long heard the legend of Stone Old Man, but it was my first time seeing it up close. The azure sea, blue sky, gentle sea breeze, and the faint fragrance of cherry blossoms drifting from afar, the rippling blue waves merged with the sky, a breathtakingly beautiful scene.
The railway station is full of Qingdao's character, with its octagonal pavilion and Huilan Pavilion – every window is a view, every view a painting. Before me was a picturesque scene; behind me seagulls were flying; in the distance lay Xiaoyudao Park with its red bricks and green tiles. Everywhere you look is poetic. Walking along the city streets, we reached the Catholic Church, a holy place for wedding photos. The square in front of the church welcomes all the passersby, bustling and joyful. Going further in is Pichai Courtyard, a paradise for food lovers. Following Zhongshan Road down, we arrived at the famous photo spot – the corner of University Road and Yushan Road. After taking photos, we went to a nearby café for coffee. The surrounding buildings are in German and Italian styles, completely different from Huilan Pavilion. Being there was truly an enjoyment!
After visiting Stone Old Man, crossing Zhanqiao, and passing Zhongshan Park, the cherry blossom-lined streets were filled with romance – like the peach blossom forest described in books, but this one was a cherry blossom forest. Coming out, we continued along the road to Badaguan Scenic Area, including Huashi Tower and Princess Tower. Old-fashioned buildings and streets full of historical charm, cherry blossom petals fluttering in the air, and the unique scent of spring vegetation – everything was vibrant and passionate, yet different from the bustle of Zhanqiao. The woods were quiet, the spring breeze gentle. Sitting on a bench under the trees, the sunshine streaming down felt very comfortable.
Slowly walking along the wooden boardwalk to May Fourth Square, I saw the “Wind of May” sculpture, just like the one in my history textbooks from school. It felt surreal – I never expected the sculpture to be so huge. The square was crowded with people, and the lights made the night even more dazzling, like a dream or a fairy tale.
Seeing mountains and waters, admiring flowers and scenery. Slow down, calm your mind – everywhere is beauty, everywhere is vitality. It feels so good to go out for a walk!
