Escape the city, embrace shores and slow living

As infrastructure continues to improve, making it easier to access inhabited islands, more people are choosing to travel to these serene destinations to escape the urban rush, embrace unspoiled natural beauty, soak in the laid-back atmosphere, and experience a slower pace of life distinct from their daily routines.

Qingdao, a coastal gem in East China's Shandong province, is renowned for its captivating islands, which have emerged as prime destinations for vacationers and those seeking a wellness retreat. Lingshan Island, nestled in the Qingdao West Coast New Area, stands out as an example of harmonious coexistence between ecological conservation and tourism development.

In 2024, the Lingshan Island was designated a national 3A-level tourist attraction, marking it as the city's first island-type tourist spot. This achievement has catapulted it to visitors' must-see lists.

As the tallest island in northern China, the Lingshan Island is approximately 10 kilometers from the mainland. Its slender shape covers an area of around 7.66 square kilometers and houses a population of 1,000 residents. The island's allure lies in its unspoiled natural landscapes and rich biodiversity.

Bao Deqiang, an official of the Qingdao West Coast New Area ecological authority, noted that Lingshan Island maintains an impressive 80 percent forest coverage and serves as a crucial migratory stop for over 300 bird species annually.

"The island's bay area is a biodiversity hotspot, housing more than 260 animal species and 28 plant varieties. Flocks of gulls add a lively touch to the ecological scenery," he said.

For visitors, the Lingshan Island offers an immersive encounter with nature. As the golden hues of dusk wash over the island, visitors find themselves letting go of daily anxieties, immersed in the island's serene beauty.

At the island's historic lighthouse, visitors can take in breathtaking panoramic views of the sea and coastline. For those craving adventure, trails wind along rugged volcanic rocks and ancient melaleuca formations — silent witnesses to the island's volcanic past.

Among the island's many natural wonders, the dramatic Tiger's Mouth Cliff captivates with its jagged silhouette, resembling a roaring tiger's maw, while the legendary Trial Knife Stone invites curiosity with its unique shape.

The island's bed-and-breakfasts, surrounded by mountains and sea, offer guests a front-row seat to watch the sunrise over the ocean from the comfort of their rooms.

These B&Bs are well-equipped, featuring a public restaurant, outdoor dining areas, various-sized pavilions, a children's play area, and amenities like beachcombing tools and children's toys.

Visitors can unwind under the starry sky, soak in the mountain-sea views, and enjoy the sea breeze complemented by a cold beer and fresh seafood.

"The Lingshan Island is a pristine, untouched island. Tourists come here to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. They enjoy coffee, watch the sunset, and truly relax," said Ren Xiangdong, a local B&B owner.

One of the most striking features of the Lingshan Island is its commitment to ecological conservation. Its carbon dioxide emissions hit negative 1,333 tons in 2021, making it China's first carbon-negative sea island, according to the China Quality Certification Center.

This achievement is the result of years of dedicated efforts. In recent years, the island has undergone a green transformation, embracing low-carbon development through overhauling residents' lifestyles and upgrading industries.

In 2020, the island launched an initiative to switch from coal to electricity for winter heating. "In the past, we used coal-heated stoves for heating, which made the village smell of coal smoke and posed safety hazards. With electric heating, our homes are warmer, cleaner and more comfortable," said Teng Yanfang, a local resident.

In addition to reducing carbon emissions, the local authorities have been focusing on increasing carbon sinks.the Lingshan Island has implemented a carbon inclusion incentive mechanism across the island, developed a WeChat mini-program for carbon inclusion activities, and established a carbon points exchange system.

The area has designed 24 carbon points application scenarios, such as "taking trash off the island".

"Residents and tourists can exchange their points for eco-friendly products like canvas bags and solar-powered chargers at the low-carbon store," said Li Wenhui, deputy director of the Lingshan Island Provincial Nature Reserve Management Committee.

The carbon inclusion incentive mechanism has inspired public participation in carbon reduction actions, she added.

"So far, it has attracted nearly 20,000 residents and tourists, who have exchanged over 5,000 ecological products," said Li.

After the island's ecological restoration project was approved with a planned investment of 515 million yuan ($70.6 million) in 2022, the area started construction the following year, focusing on increasing vegetation coverage, restoring ecosystems and maintaining biodiversity.

The nature reserve has restricted fuel vehicles, promoted clean energy and protected its over 80 percent forest cover. It has also established a three-tiered protection model, a digital monitoring system, the first island environmental court in Shandong, and an ecological compensation fund to encourage public participation.

Additionally, carbon-sink fisheries and marine ranches have been developed.

"The zone will continue to pursue green, low-carbon, and high-quality development, creating a model for ecological protection and sustainable development," said Sun Bin, director of the Lingshan Island Provincial Nature Reserve Development and Protection Center.

These efforts have not only preserved the island's natural beauty but also attracted a growing number of tourists who appreciate the delicate balance between development and conservation.

"In recent years, the ecological environment on the island has been getting better and better. Many tourists are attracted by the 'Carbon-Negative Sea Island' brand," said Wang Huajuan, a resident of Lingshan Island and also a homestay owner.

"We have also been constantly upgrading our homestay from hardware to service, hoping to provide tourists with a better experience," she said.

Qingdao's island charm extends beyond the Lingshan Island. The city is home to over 120 islands, each with unique characteristics.

On the Zhaitang Island, visitors can immerse themselves in the traditional fishing lifestyle. They can stay in cozy B&Bs, explore the island's legends, which tell stories from 2,000 years ago, watch sunsets by the rocky shores, or join in traditional fishing activities.

The Zhucha Island, a 300-year-old fishing village off Qingdao's coast, offers unique volcanic landscapes and pristine beaches. The island boasts numerous scenic spots, including the rare and well-protected crater landform and karst flow in Qingdao, as well as naturally formed fishing platforms, turtle hatching sites, and Yuanyang Cave.

The Zhucha Island also provides luxury resorts with high-end amenities like sky pools, spas, and fine dining restaurants, promising an even more luxurious experience.

"There's no commercial hustle and bustle here, just pure island charm," said a tourist surnamed Zhang from Jinan.

"We arrived by boat early in the morning. My husband went fishing, while I took the kids to watch the sunset and collect shells by the rocks. This kind of slow-paced travel experience is really hard to find," said Zhang.

"The rise of island tourism in Qingdao is a testament to the successful integration of ecological conservation and sustainable development," said Sun, director of the Lingshan Island Provincial Nature Reserve Development and Protection Center.

Sun Qi contributed to the story