Qingdao, China

Capital City

With 10.1 million residents, Qingdao is a bustling coastal city that packs a punch. The export-driven economy keeps wages relatively high, but the heavy bureaucracy is a persistent headache. Summers are hot and humid, while the winters can be brutally cold and windy. However, the city's stunning German-style architecture, thriving beer culture, and access to the sea make it an appealing option for young professionals seeking an urban coastal lifestyle in China.