Elite
Qingdao Marathon
Qingdao · Apr 19, 2026
A coastal city marathon in China's "Switzerland of the East." April Qingdao is mild and blooming. The course follows the dramatic coastline past red-roofed German colonial architecture, the iconic Zhanqiao Pier, and the sailing venues of the 2008 Olympics.
Date
Apr 19, 2026
Difficulty
Extreme
Elevation
~150m elevation gain
Field Size
25,000 runners
Course
Starting from May Fourth Square, along the coastline, past Zhanqiao Pier, Badaguan, and Laoshan scenic area, finishing at the Olympic Sailing Center
Tips
- •April temps around 10-18°C, sea breezes can be chilly — bring a windbreaker
- •Pre-race visits: Zhanqiao Pier, Badaguan, Tsingtao Brewery, Laoshan Mountain
- •Local specialties: Tsingtao beer, seafood, clam noodles, and German-style sausage
- •Qingdao is famous for its beer — the brewery tour is a must for post-race celebration
Coastal CityGerman ArchitectureTsingtao BeerOlympic Sailing