Qingdao's historic city center is revealing its charms from a fresh perspective by embracing the "urban wandering" trend. This lifestyle movement, which surged in popularity last summer, particularly resonates with the younger generation.

Tourists capture photos in front of Anna Villa, an iconic landmark in Qingdao's Shinan district. [Photo/Qingdao Daily]

Urban wandering thrives with a deliberate blend of diverse elements, a concept that Qingdao, with its rich historical and cultural legacy, embodies with innate ease. Its historic city center, a repository of profound cultural richness, serves as an ideal canvas for the urban wandering experience.

According to tourism professionals, urban wandering can be synchronized with the exploratory pace of the old city area, offering a means to innovate and transform the city's cultural identity and historical narrative. For former residents, revisiting their old neighborhoods can rekindle connections and revive memories. For artists and creatives, urban wandering serves as a wellspring of inspiration, fueling creativity and aiding in the dissemination of the city's historical and cultural tales, thereby amplifying its cultural impact.

In early June 2024, Shinan district, Qingdao launched a promotional event for its urban cultural tourism routes. The event highlighted the Shangjieli historical urban area's offerings, including culinary delights, cultural experiences, museums, art, and urban wandering. With the introduction of 12 cultural tourism routes, visitors are invited to immerse themselves in the multifaceted cultural landscape of Qingdao.