QINGDAO -- In the eastern coastal city of Qingdao, widely known as the "city of beer", beer sales have been soaring as thirsty patrons from across the country descend on the city for its beer culture and varieties.

Qingdao has a long history of beer brewing and is home to the Tsingtao Brewery, the world's second best-selling beer brand.
For tourists, the city's beer museum is a must-see with many pieces of vintage brewing equipment on display.

"We are from Daqing city in Heilongjiang Province. We have flown a long way to experience the beer culture here," said a tourist.
A restaurant owner said beer sales have been increasing since June, with business getting a boost from the influx of tourists in the first summer of travel since the country's COVID-19 restrictions were lifted.

"I often come here to drink beer and have barbecue with friends or colleagues after work, which is quite relaxing," said a diner at one restaurant.

"It feels cool to drink beer in such hot weather," said another diner.
"We serve about 200 tables at nighttime and are restocking two to three times more than before," said Yin Yunzeng, the restaurant owner.