A NATIONAL mountain climbing festival was launched in the city April 22.

On the opening day, a total of 48 mountains and hills in the city were opened to the public for free.

Mountain climbing is now an important activity for the city’s residents. In 2009, Qingdao became a model city in mountain climbing. More than 1 million residents participate in climbing activities every year. As well as being a healthy activity, it also promotes the city’s tourism.

(Wang Yuanyuan, Sun Fei)