Live Your Best Lives
The mountains and seas are full of love, the sky is vast and the earth is peaceful
Liaoning, also known as Liao and formerly Fengtian Province, is the only coastal province in Northeast my country. It is also one of the earliest provinces to open ports in modern my country, one of the birthplaces of the Chinese nation and civilization, and the cradle of the rise of industrial power in the People's Republic of China. Known as the "Eldest Son of the Republic" and the "Ruhr of the East," Liaoning is a rich history book, with attractions like the September 18th Incident Memorial Hall, the Chaoyang Dinosaur Museum, Marshal Zhang's Mansion, and the Shenyang Imperial Palace telling their own stories. Liaoning is also a book of folklore, with a vibrant array of cultural and artistic activities such as the Liu Laogen Grand Stage, Northeast Errenzhuan, and the Northeast Yangge. Liaoning is also a landscape album, with stunning scenic spots such as Dalian's Xinghai Square, Laohutan Ocean Park, and the Golden Pebble Beach Resort; Panjin's Red Beach and stunning wetlands; Jinzhou's Bijia Mountain; and Dandong's Yalu River.
Liaoning has played a critical role in Chinese history, especially as a key military and economic area due to its proximity to Russia and North Korea. Shenyang was historically an important city during the Qing Dynasty as it served as the birthplace of the dynasty. The region’s historical heritage includes ancient architecture, military sites, and cultural landmarks.
Liaoning is located in northeastern China, bordering the Bohai Sea to the south and Russia and North Korea to the north. It can be accessed by air through Shenyang Taoxian International Airport, by train, or by bus. The public transportation system includes metro, buses, and taxis, especially in major cities like Shenyang and Dalian.
Liaoning is best visited in spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November), with mild weather and fewer tourists. Winter can be harsh, but it’s ideal for skiing in places like Changbai Mountain. Most attractions are open year-round, typically from 8 AM to 6 PM, with some exceptions.
Ticket prices vary by attraction. For example, Shenyang Imperial Palace charges about 60 CNY, and Dalian’s Xinghai Square is free. Tickets can usually be bought online through official websites or on-site at the entrance of most attractions.
It is recommended to book tickets in advance for popular sites, especially during peak seasons like summer or holidays. Booking 1-2 weeks in advance should suffice for most attractions.
A 4-5 day trip is ideal for exploring major attractions like Shenyang, Dalian, and Fushun. For a more leisurely experience with hiking or cultural visits, extend the trip to 7 days.
Guided tours are available in most major attractions, and many offer audio guides in multiple languages, including English and Chinese. It's best to book in advance for English-speaking tours.
In Dalian, there are light shows and evening performances at Xinghai Square. In Shenyang, some night tours are available to explore the city’s illuminated historic buildings. Seasonal festivals also host special events like lantern festivals.
The least crowded times to visit Liaoning are during the winter months (December-February) and during weekdays, avoiding public holidays. The summer months can be quite crowded, especially around the beaches in Dalian and Shenyang’s tourist spots.
Major tourist sites in Liaoning are equipped with basic facilities such as toilets, food stalls, water stations, and rest areas. Shops are also available for souvenirs and local goods.
Most attractions in Liaoning, particularly in cities like Shenyang and Dalian, are accessible to elderly and disabled visitors. Public transport and tourist sites have facilities for strollers and wheelchairs. However, some natural sites like Changbai Mountains may require more effort to access.
Credit cards and mobile payments (like Alipay and WeChat Pay) are widely accepted in larger cities such as Shenyang and Dalian. It's advisable to carry some cash for smaller vendors or rural areas.
Vegetarian and vegan food options are available in most cities like Shenyang and Dalian, especially in larger restaurants and international chains. Halal food is also available in areas with Muslim populations.
Souvenir shops in Liaoning sell items like local crafts, traditional Chinese tea, silk products, and Dalian’s famous seafood products like dried seaweed and sea cucumbers.
