Museums in Qingdao's Shinan district reported a summer visitor surge as families and students sought Chinese traditional culture during the 2025 holiday break.

The district now hosts 24 registered museums – three ranked national first-class – offering one venue for every 20,300 residents, a density that city officials describe as "internationally leading". Topics range from maritime history and celebrity archives to modern architecture.

"By connecting Shinan's museums, we have designed over thirty immersive study programmes that explore the district's rich history, maritime heritage, and traditional culture. Tailored to different ages and knowledge levels, the courses span history, art, science, and more, offering participants a dynamic, expert-led learning experience, " said a spokesperson for the district's culture and tourism bureau.

The Qingdao 1907 Movie Museum at No 17 Hubei Road, Shinan district of Qingdao. [Photo/WeChat account: Shinanly]

The Qingdao Aquarium – also known as the Qingdao Marine Products Museum and the Qingdao Marine Science and Technology Museum – is located on Huiquan Bay in Qingdao. Opened in 1932, it remains China's first aquarium. [Photo/WeChat account: Shinanly]