Zhanqiao Pier (栈桥), commonly known as Qianhai Zhanqiao (前海栈桥), Nanhai Zhanqiao (南海栈桥), or the Grand Pier (大码), is one of the most renowned landmarks in Qingdao’s coastal scenic area. Originally built in 1891 during the 17th year of the Guangxu reign in the Qing Dynasty, it has been celebrated as the “Long Rainbow extending far into the sea” and holds the distinction of being Qingdao’s first artificial pier.
The pier extends 440 meters into the sea, with a width of 10 meters. Its sides are adorned with iron chain railings and lotus-shaped street lamps. At the end of the pier, there is a semi-circular breakwater forming a “T” shape. Zhanqiao Pier features a European traditional pavilion-style architecture, primarily constructed from wood and iron. The pier includes several viewing platforms and leisure areas for visitors to enjoy the scenic beauty and relax. Additionally, there is a cultural corridor that showcases Qingdao’s rich construction history and cultural background.
At the southern end of the pier stands Huilan Pavilion (回澜阁), a double-eaved, octagonal pavilion topped with glazed tiles. Covering a total area of 354.12 square meters, this two-tier structure is located on the semi-circular breakwater. It features traditional Chinese architectural elements with its double-eaved roof and yellow glazed tiles. The pavilion is supported by 24 circular columns, and inside, a spiral staircase with 34 steps leads to the second floor. The construction of Huilan Pavilion not only adds a unique scenic element to the pier but also serves as a distinctive architectural symbol of Qingdao.
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | 0.5 – 1 hour |
| Ticket Price | Free |
| Opening Hours | 24 hours a day throughout the year |
| Telephone Number | 0086-0532-82884548 |
Location and Transportation
Zhanqiao Pier is located at 12 Taiping Road in Shinan District, Qingdao, Shandong Province. It is situated on the northern side of Qingdao Bay, directly across the water from Xiaoqingdao Island. To get there, you can choose one of the following wasy:
Bus: Take bus 25, 26, 304, 307, or 316 and get off at Zhanqiao Stop (栈桥站).
Metro: The closest metro station to Zhanqiao Pier is Qingdao Railway Station (青岛站) on line 1 and line 3. After getting out of the station from Exit G, walk about 300 meters to the southeast to reach the attraction.
History of Zhanqiao Pier
Throughout history, Zhanqiao Pier and Huilan Pavilion have undergone several renovations and expansions. In 1891, the Qing government ordered Zhang Gaoyuan, the commander of Dengzhou, to move four battalions to Qingdao and build a wooden pier with an iron and wooden structure, approximately 200 meters long and 10 meters wide, as a naval wharf. The pier was completed in 1892. After Germany occupied Qingdao in 1897, the pier was converted into a cargo terminal. In 1901, the Germans expanded the pier, extending it to 350 meters and replacing the wooden surface with concrete and stone, while also adding iron chain railings. A light rail track was added to facilitate transportation.
In 1931, the Qingdao municipal authorities extended the pier to 440 meters and raised the pier’s height by 0.5 meters. The southern end of the pier was enhanced with a semi-circular breakwater, and Huilan Pavilion was constructed, officially naming it Huilan Pavilion. In 1984, the Qingdao Municipal Government undertook a major renovation of the pier and pavilion, replacing the southern end’s permeable section with a new design featuring 16 rows of piles instead of the original 34. A new viewing platform was built, and 12 pairs of European-style bridge lamps were installed. The pier’s surface was upgraded with granite steps.
Further comprehensive renovations took place in 1998 and 2013, undertaken by the Qingdao Municipal Government to preserve and enhance the pier and Huilan Pavilion. Today, Zhanqiao Pier remains a beloved destination for tourists and locals alike, offering a blend of historical significance, cultural richness, and breathtaking coastal views, making it a must-visit landmark in Qingdao.
