Shinan district in Qingdao, Shandong province, captivated visitors during the 2025 May Day holiday, combining coastal beauty, cinematic buzz, and cultural creativity to deliver a standout urban escape. From iconic landmarks like Zhanqiao Pier and Badaguan to the photogenic Olympic Sailing Center, tourists flocked to explore Shinan's signature red roofs, leafy streets, and seaside charm.

Maritime tourism soared to new heights. On May 3 alone, the popular ''See Qingdao by Sea'' cruise carried 56,800 passengers—a 120-percent year-on-year increase—bringing in 3.24 million yuan ($446,800) in revenue. Meanwhile, film fans traced scenes from hits like When I Fly Towards You, spiking visits to Qinyu Road and the Taiping Mountain Cableway by over 30 percent.

Cultural innovation was front and center. The Museum of the Former German Governor's House hosted hands-on architectural stamping workshops, while Tianhou Temple came alive with folk art, sugar painting, and Sichuan Opera. Zhongshan Road transformed into a cultural destination, welcoming 100,000 visitors to the ''Calling the Name of Light'' exhibit, while Taixingli's pet-themed markets added charm to the historic streetscape.

Evenings sparkled as Fushan Bay lit up with the ''Four Seasons Qingdao'' light show. The newly opened Lanqi Banquet Rhapsody fused Qing Dynasty (1644-1911) aesthetics with immersive dining, while over 30,000 participants engaged in district-led events—from intangible cultural heritage crafts to livestreamed art classes.

With tourism revenue up 112.7 percent and cultural venues bustling, Shinan has set a new standard for holiday destinations that blend nostalgia and innovation.