In the first half of the 19th century, Qingdao was little more than a scattering of rural fishing villages. Then in the latter half, the Qing Dynasty chose Qingdao as a strategic port in their plan to rebuild the once magnificent navy.  The vision, however, was never completely actualized.  Rebellion and limited governmental efficacy, made for little accomplishment, and the area was ceded to Germany in 1897.  The German Imperial government set up their Far East Squadron here, and along with it came German-styled homes and villas, immaculate government mansions, towering churches and cobblestone roads.  Today, many of these historical remnants are well preserved and functioning, unlike most large cities of China where its out with the old and in with the new. Despite the short distance from the young commercial business district, walking around the wandering tree-lined streets one feel as if they have stepped back in time and on to the other side of the globe.