Qingdao has long held a reputation for examples of Western architecture and the Guest House, to the south of Signal Hill, is said to be one of the best examples.

Designed by a German architect, the Qingdao Guest House (青岛迎宾馆) resembles a classic German castle. Construction began in 1905 and was completed in 1908.

The Guest House was the official residence of the German governor. [photo by Xing Zhifeng]

Examples of this extraordinary structure, with extensive features of that period, are now rare in Germany. It is considered a valuable example of this architectural style. Many overseas architects have come to see and marvel at this masterpiece.

The design of the building is unique, with the adoption of a rough granite exterior, steep roofs, thick walls and narrow windows reflecting the distinctive style of such German buildings.

The majestic Guest House is more than 30 meters high with a wall thickness of over 60 centimeters. The yellow exterior walls are rough granite.

The four-story Guest House has 15 rooms of various sizes and functions. The interior decoration is extremely luxurious and elegant. The paneling and elaborately embossed ceilings remain in excellent condition. Glittering jade stone is inlaid in the pendant lights, wall lamps and fireplaces.

Germany furniture from the Qing Dynasty (1644 -1911), antiques, calligraphy and paintings are also kept in their original locations. All the fireplaces and radiators are in different styles, and some of the original German products remain in good working order today.

Add: 26 Longshan Rd. 龙山路26号

Tel: +86-532-82866209/9888

Admission: 15 yuan, half for students

Opening Hours: 8:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.; 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. (winter)

How to get there: bus route 225, 25, 307, 367, 217, 220, 1, 214, 221, 228, 231