This sprawling metropolis wrapping the massive bay of Jiaozhou Wan on the Yellow Sea is home to more than 6 million residents on China’s northeast coast. Revered nationally as the country’s premier marine sports hub, thanks to its crystal-clear waters, the city boasts a #29 ranking in our Nature & Parks subcategory, with local destinations like the Zhanqiao Pier, the majestic Mount Laoshan and the vibrant May Fourth Square much-loved symbols of the city’s allure. And let’s not forget the Qingdao International Beer Festival, an event so grand it pulls visitors from all corners of the globe, cementing the city’s growing status as a must-visit destination domestically and internationally.
But local ambitions reach far beyond tourism. Qingdao has also become a leader in marine innovation, hosting 30% of the nation’s oceanic research institutions, focusing on fisheries, cutting-edge marine equipment, and revolutionary pharmaceuticals and biopharma. And the future looks even brighter—Qingdao is gearing up to invest a staggering US$28 billion into key marine projects, further igniting the city’s economic engine. No wonder it ranks #32 in our overall Prosperity index. With a convention center ranking of #12 and a #28-ranked airport, Qingdao is inviting the world to “sea” the marine economic miracle for themselves.