From Canada’s View: Exploring Qingdao – A Coastal City with Integration of Technology and Culture

In April 2025, a media delegation set out on an exploration journey to Qingdao, China. The team is composed of Daniel Donovan, the editor-in-chief of Ottawa Life in Canada, Donovan Martin, the editor-in-chief of The Daily Scrum News, and Alexander Tyrell, the leader of Green Party of Quebec. This modern city located on the eastern coast of China has deeply attracted the attention of Canada with its green development, technological innovation and profound cultural heritage.

Smart Port and Ecopark: A Model of Green Development

The first stop that the delegation arrived at was the Sino-German Ecopark, a demonstration park that integrates ecological design and low-carbon industries. Here, they witnessed China’s leading practices in sustainable urban planning. Moreover, they visited the automated terminal of Qingdao Port – a globally leading smart port with a fully unmanned operating system throughout the process, demonstrating the practical application of AI and robot technology in port logistics. The delegation highly praised Qingdao’s breakthroughs in the field of green technology.

A Cultural Journey: From Wine to Sailing

At CHATEAU HUADONG-PARRY in Qingdao, the delegation members tasted high-quality local Chinese wines, learned about their brewing techniques, and expressed their appreciation for Qingdao’s ability to develop characteristic agriculture and tourism industries. Furthermore, they visited Qingdao International Sailing Center and experienced the vitality of this “City of the Ocean” in person.

Exploring Chinese Manufacturing: Smart Living with Haier and Hisense
  The delegation also visited renowned Chinese companies Haier and Hisense. At their headquarters, they explored the latest achievements in smart home technology and advanced display innovations, gaining a deep appreciation for the technological transformation of China’s manufacturing industry. Canadian young artist Noemie Cote remarked, “The technology is quite advanced and beautiful.”

Beer Culture and Urban Renewal: Experiencing the Blend of Old and New in Qingdao
At the Tsingtao Beer Museum, the delegation immersed themselves in over a century of beer culture and brewing craftsmanship. In the historical district of Dabaodao, they experienced the cultural revival brought about by the renewal of the old town. Qingdao’s approach to urban governance and cultural preservation sparked great interest among the visitors.

A New Chapter in Canada-China Exchange
This in-depth visit gave the Canadian media delegation a strong impression of Qingdao’s achievements in green development, technological innovation, and cultural heritage. It also laid the groundwork for future cooperation in media and urban exchange between China and Canada. As the delegation noted, “Qingdao not only showcases China’s modern accomplishments but also embodies a vision of openness and collaboration for the future.”