Top 10 historical streets in China
- By Xu Lin
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China.org.cn, December 15, 2011
Badaguan (Eight Passes) in Qingdao （青島八大關(guān)）
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Badaguan (Eight Passes) in Qingdao |
Badaguan, or Eight Passes, is a historical street district in the southeast of Qingdao, Shandong Province. The street is famous for combining the architectural styles of different countries.
The name Eight Passes comes from eight roads named after the eight strategic passes of China's famous passes, which are Jiayuguan, Juyongguan, Wushengguan, Ningwuguan, Shanhaiguan, Shaoguan, Zhengyangguan, and Zijingguan. There are now 10 roads in the district which crisscross to form a scenic area.
The area is home to some unique flora and fauna, including many varieties of trees, including peach trees, pine trees and gingko trees. In addition, there are more than 200 villas in the exotic architectural style of more than 20 countries, including Russia, UK, US, France, Germany, Denmark, Greece, Spain, Switzerland and Japan. Before the founding of the People's Republic of China in 1949, the area was home to many foreign consulates, and, because of the unique and varied architectural styles in the area, Badaguan is known as the "World Architecture Museum." It is also called "little Switzerland."
Badaguan remains special to this day for its unique blend of Eastern and Western influences. As a symbol of Qingdao, Badaguan has proved attractive for many film producers and directors, as well as visitors from all over the world.
