Using FNL（NCEP/NCAR）reanalysis data (1°×1°) and observations, some characteristics of six recent tropical cyclones causing heavy rainfall in Qingdao from 2001 to 2008 are analyzed from their tracks, structures, intensities and environmental flow effects etc. Then the comparative analysis of characteristics between tropical cyclones (TCs) causing heavy rainfall and those not in Qingdao is made by using composite analysis method. Results show that heavy rainfall will occur in Qingdao when a TC makes landfall over Fujian or Zhejiang Province in China and continues to move northward over 30°N. And when a TC moves into the sea and makes landfall over Shandong Peninsula again, the more intense rate and wider area of heavy rainfall will occur if its landing location is closer to Qingdao. When a TC impacts Qingdao, although it is in decline stage, it still keeps a clear warm core at upper levels and maintains its intensity for a period of time. And if a TC moves along the steering flow at edge of the massive subtropical high and links with a cold trough aloft, it will cause regional heavy rainfall over Qingdao.