Qingdao's old main urban areas are experiencing a resurgence as an increasing number of young people are opting to return, attracted by the infusion of trendy businesses and improved facilities within the historical districts.

This return is imbuing old spaces with new life, quality, and functionality, transforming the old city into a more vibrant and dynamic area.

An aerial view of Qingdao's Shinan district. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Strategies to retain this "youth force" involve tapping into the preferences of young consumers, as evidenced by the success of the third Shangjieli Beer Festival. The festival attracted a total of 7.2 million visitors, with an average daily attendance of over 310,000 people, resulting in a total turnover of 13.5 million yuan ($1.89 million) for 172 key merchants, averaging about 600,000 yuan per day.

Young entrepreneurs are flocking to the old city, introducing a diverse range of businesses, including catering businesses, boutique accommodations, cultural experience businesses, creative retail stores, and leisure and entertainment venues. Characteristic entrepreneurial areas like Yinyu Lane have become hubs for original brands and internet-famous debut stores.

Yinyu Lane, in particular, has emerged as a trendy landmark, featuring the Yinyu Lane Mini Museum, Shangjieli Market, and SFY Original Curator's Collection Courtyard. It boasts a variety of attractions, with coffee shops, vintage stores, handmade goods, music venues, markets, and new Chinese-style brands making up more than half of its offerings.