Introduction to Dalian
Dalian is a magical coastal city. It’s neither too big nor too small, with a population that’s not too large nor too small. The city boasts sunshine, the sea, beaches, and beautiful people. For those who have visited Dalian, its beauty is unparalleled, and they refer to it as China’s “City of Romance.” As you walk through the city’s squares or stroll along Dalian’s coastline, the sight of people with warm, sincere, and happy smiles will fill you with greater anticipation for this city.
Dalian was formerly known as “Qingniwa.” A hundred years ago, a group of Russian engineers, deeply fond of French culture, arrived here with urban plans inspired by Paris, hoping to create an “Eastern Paris” in this Far Eastern land. They named the city “Dalini,” meaning “remote city,” which was phonetically translated into Chinese as “Dalian.”
Dalian’s architecture is highly international, featuring a variety of styles: ancient Roman column-style buildings, European-style dome structures, old Russian buildings (on Russian Street), Baroque architecture, Byzantine buildings, Japanese villa-style structures (Nanshan Tourist Street), and traditional Chinese architecture. If the Hope Building is like a graceful young lady among Dalian’s architectural ensemble, then the World Trade Center is like a dashing gentleman.
Personal Impression
Dalian is a beautiful city with vast seas, golden beaches, and lush green fields. For those who have grown up in Dalian, these sights may feel ordinary, but it’s through this beauty that everyone can truly appreciate the charm of the city.
Best Travel Time:
The best time to visit Dalian is from May to September. Located at the southern tip of the Liaodong Peninsula and surrounded by the sea on three sides, Dalian is a famous summer resort. Many tourists come to Dalian to escape the summer heat and enjoy the refreshing seawater, making summer the ideal travel season. Additionally, September is the prime season for seafood in Dalian, when it’s at its most flavorful. The swimming season in Dalian typically lasts from late June to early September. Furthermore, September and October are the best times for coastal fishing, as the sea fish migrate during this period.
Clothing Guide:
Dalian has a distinct maritime climate. July and August are the hottest months, with temperatures ranging between 20-30°C. However, rain in Dalian is concentrated in the summer, so it’s important to carry rain gear when traveling during this time. Spring and autumn are dry with pleasant weather, and normal autumn clothing is sufficient. Winters are cold with very little rain or snow. January is the coldest month, with average temperatures ranging from -2 to -9°C, so be sure to dress warmly to stay protected from the cold.
Dalian is blessed with blue skies, clear seas, green mountains, white stones, and a rolling coastline. The ebb and flow of the tides is poetic and picturesque, creating a beautiful coastal landscape. Combined with its rich cultural attractions, the city becomes even more enchanting and unforgettable. Among its many highlights, Binhai Road is exceptionally scenic; Xinghai Park sparkles with brilliance; Jinshitan boasts breathtaking views; and Dalian Sun Asia Ocean World is a magical wonder. Snake Island and Bird Island are rich in natural resources, showcasing unique wildlife; the ancient reefs and strange rock formations of Haiwang Nine Islands are awe-inspiring; and Jinshitan’s Shenli Park is one of a kind in China, while Bangchuidao Island’s scenery is dreamlike and evocative.
Dalian Bay’s fortifications take us back in time, offering a glimpse of history; the Forest Zoo reconnects us with nature, reminding us to cherish the present; and Zhongshan Square symbolizes Dalian’s gateway to the world.
Laohutan Ocean Park
Laohutan Ocean Park is the largest ocean park in China, featuring six main areas: the Coral Hall, Polar Hall, Bird Forest, 4D Cinema, Marine Mammal Hall, and Pirate Village. Visitors can not only marvel at a wide variety of beautiful and exotic marine life but also enjoy diverse animal performances. It is one of the must-visit attractions for most tourists coming to Dalian.
The adorable animal performances at Laohutan Ocean Park are impressive. The show kicks off with performances by beluga whales and dolphins in the Polar Hall, followed by sea lion and walrus performances in the Joyful Theater. The Bird Forest is also worth a visit, with the sea lion show being a highlight.
In recent years, Laohutan has undergone significant changes, with ongoing construction. The overhead walkways are now gone, and the outdoor theater has been reclaimed from the sea. Even the famous 104 ship has been surrounded by reclaimed land, and its future remains uncertain. Currently, visitors can enjoy attractions such as the Polar Hall, Coral Hall, Marine Mammal Hall, and some activities like drifting rides.
Dalian Sun Asia Ocean World
Dalian Sun Asia Ocean World is located on the west side of the city’s iconic Xinghai Square and is a scenic ocean-themed park. It features five main exhibition halls: Sun Asia Ocean World, Sun Asia Polar World, Sun Asia Coral World, Sun Asia Deep Sea Legend, and Sun Asia Dinosaur Legend. These halls showcase a wide variety of marine fish, polar animals, and coral reef ecosystems. Visitors can enjoy three major performances: Legend of the Beluga Whale, Love of Dolphin Bay, and Kung Fu Walrus. The park is also home to China’s largest Antarctic penguin breeding base, a 118-meter-long underwater tunnel, and an IMAX dome cinema. It’s a landmark attraction in the Xinghai Bay area, highlighting the romantic appeal of Dalian.
The highlight of Dalian Sun Asia Ocean World is undoubtedly the animal performances. Love of Dolphin Bay tells a humorous mermaid fairy tale, while the Kung Fu Walrus show features an entertaining sea lion and walrus performance. Additionally, the underwater performance Legend of the Beluga Whale showcases captivating interactions between belugas, dolphins, sea lions, and walruses as they help unfold the story. These shows are definitely worth seeing. During the tourist season, the performances are repeated daily, so with proper planning of your visit, you can catch all of them.
Jinshitan National Tourism Resort
Jinshitan National Tourism Resort consists of the eastern and western peninsulas, along with the open inland area and a beach between the two. Surrounded by the sea on three sides, it enjoys a pleasant climate and features a coastline stretching 30 km. The resort is home to numerous attractions, including Jinshitan Coastal National Geopark, Jinshi Wax Museum of World Celebrities, Jinshitan Geological Museum, Jinyuan Park (Jinshi Park), Ten-mile Golden Coast, Wanfuding Park, Chinese Martial Arts Museum, Discovery Kingdom Theme Park, Mao Zedong Badge Exhibition Hall, Film and Art Center (Xu Beihong Art Museum), Jinshi Hunting Club, Jinshi Equestrian Base, Jinshi International Conference Center, Jinshi Golf Course, Jinwan Golf Course, and the Old Dalian Folk Culture Museum.
Ten-mile Golden Coast
Ten-mile Golden Coast is the main leisure and entertainment area of the Jinshitan National Tourism Resort. Stretching 4.5 km, it is the largest and only natural beach in northern China with night lighting. The beach boasts golden sand, a soft and flat shore, and excellent water quality. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including yacht rides, jet skiing, windsurfing, fishing, fun sand sculpture competitions, beach ATVs, beach volleyball, and beach soccer. It also serves as the main venue for the “Dalian International Beach Culture Festival” and the “Dalian International Winter Swimming Invitational Tournament.”
Discovery Kingdom Theme Park
Discovery Kingdom Theme Park is located on the Ten-Mile Golden Coast of the Jinshitan National Tourist Resort in Dalian. It was designed by an American company that has worked on Disney parks, bringing a vibrant, exotic atmosphere to the area. With over twenty top-notch amusement rides and attractions, it stands out as the premier amusement park in Northeast China.
Inside the park, you’ll find thrilling rides like roller coasters, Energy Storm, The Giant Swing, The Giant Axe, The Tidal Wave, Space Shuttle, Rainforest Drift, and Rapid River. There are also amazing daily parades and theater performances, among many other entertainment options. Plus, you’ll find all the necessary tourist amenities, including dining, accommodations, shops, postal services, and banks.
The entertainment facilities within Discovery Kingdom are arranged in a circular layout and are divided into six themed areas: Crazy Town, Mysterious Desert, Metal Factory, Magic Forest, Legendary Castle, and Wedding Hall. Each area features signature attractions, allowing you to pick and choose based on your preferences.
Tips for Visiting Discovery Kingdom
Make sure to arrive before the park opens—seriously, it’s crucial to be among the first to rush in! The park opens at 9:30 AM, and you’ll see a ton of people sprinting to get inside. The two most popular rides are the Tornado and the Crazy Cobra, both roller coasters. The main difference is that the Tornado starts running at 9:30 AM, while the Crazy Cobra kicks off at 10:30 AM.
I dashed straight to the Tornado, and since I was moving fast, I waited about 40 minutes in line and successfully got on the first ride. By the time I got off, the line had already stretched out really far!
Dalian Coastal National Geopark
The Dalian Coastal National Geopark is renowned for its stunning 30-kilometer coastline featuring coastal erosion landforms, making it the only coastal karst landscape in China. The cliffs are dotted with unique rock formations that are truly remarkable and diverse. There are five main natural scenic areas: Jinshiyuan, Rose Garden, Dinosaur Park, Nanshi Park, and Aotan Park. This park is also the only place in Dalian where you might catch a glimpse of wild dolphins!
Within the Dalian Coastal National Geopark, you’ll find a geological theme square, coastal cliff bridges, numerous wooden walkways and leisure platforms, and scenic walking paths. Scattered throughout the park are over a hundred well-preserved and intricately shaped rock formations, along with four beautifully crafted beach coves that blend seamlessly with the extraordinary rock scenery.
Binhai Road
Binhai Road is located along the southern coast of Dalian and is the city’s most scenic sightseeing route. Stretching 32 kilometers, it connects twelve major attractions along the coastline. During the vibrant spring season, driving along this road is a treat for the senses. On one side, you’ll see mountains covered in mixed coniferous and broadleaf forests, adorned with blooming red rhododendrons, while on the other side lies the vast sea and a myriad of rocky islands—it’s absolutely breathtaking.
If you have the time, consider walking the length of Binhai Road. Along the way, you’ll pass by popular spots like Tiger Beach, Beida Bridge, Yanwo Ridge, Fujiazhuang, Xinghai Square, Xinghai Park, Yingshan Road, Ocean Rhythm Park, Bangchui Island, Shizhao, and Fisherman’s Wharf. Each stop offers its own unique charm and beauty!
Yanwo Ridge Scenic Area
Yanwo Ridge is located in the middle section of Binhai Road in Dalian and gets its name from the black swallows that often come here to build their nests. The coastal landforms here are well-developed, featuring cliffs created by tectonic faults that plunge sharply into the sea, resulting in some truly unique landscapes.
As you hike along the winding paths, you’ll find yourself surrounded by both the ocean and the mountains, perfectly embodying the beauty of being between land and sea. From the top of Yanwo Ridge, you can take in stunning views to the east, including the picturesque scenery of Tiger Beach, Beida Bridge, and Shizhao Village, while to the west, you can admire the coastal beauty of Fujiazhuang and the twin islands of Dalian.
Xinghai Park
Located in the heart of the Xinghai Bay scenic area in southern Dalian, Xinghai Park was established in 1909 and is a seaside park that features both a land park and a beach. The park gets its name from a peculiar giant rock that juts out of the bay’s surface, believed by locals to be a “star stone” from the heavens.
Xinghai Park connects directly with Xinghai Square. If you walk west along the coast from the square, you’ll find yourself at the park in no time. One of Dalian’s famous attractions, the “Shengya Underwater World,” is situated within Xinghai Park.
Often referred to as the city’s largest “summer paradise,” the park is divided into four main areas: the sightseeing area, relaxation zone, children’s playground, and seawater bathing area. In recent years, Dalian’s first water park, Xinghai Water Park, has been built at the base of the small hill on the west side of Xinghai Park, featuring water attractions like high-speed slides, a magnetic swimming pool, and diving platforms for even more fun!
Heishi Reef Park & Natural History Museum
Heishi Reef, formed around one billion years ago, is a renowned karst landscape scattered throughout the coastal bays. When the tide is high, it appears mysteriously, almost shrouded in mystery, while at low tide, it stands boldly at the water’s edge.
At the seaside of Heishi Reef, you’ll find a stunning blue-domed European-style building—the Dalian Natural History Museum. This comprehensive natural science museum houses collections, research, and exhibits related to geology, paleontology, and various specimens of animals and plants. Be sure to make a reservation by phone or online before your visit!
Bangchui Island
Bangchui Island is located in the eastern section of Binhai Road, about 5 kilometers southeast of Dalian. This scenic spot is characterized by its stunning landscapes of mountains, sea, islands, and beaches. The island gets its name because, from a distance, it resembles a pestle used by farmers for pounding clothes.
In 2018, Bangchui Island gained international attention when leaders from China and North Korea met here for talks, making it a site of significant diplomatic history.
Fisherman’s Wharf
Dalian’s Tiger Beach Fisherman’s Wharf is located within the Tiger Beach Fishing Port on Binhai Road in the Zhongshan District. Surrounded by natural mountains on both the east and west sides, it boasts a beautiful coastline stretching 1,768 meters to the south. The concept of Fisherman’s Wharf comes from Europe and North America, representing a nostalgic style of leisure typical of the continent, along with a unique port culture and a casual vibe for the everyday person.
This area is a multifunctional commercial hub that combines sightseeing, entertainment, culture, dining, shopping, and vacationing, making it a distinctive theme zone that caters to a variety of interests.
Lushunkou
Lushunkou is located at the southern tip of the Liaodong Peninsula in the southwest part of Dalian, and it is an administrative district under the city. To the east, it faces the Yellow Sea, while the Bohai Sea lies to the west. It overlooks the Shandong Peninsula to the south and is bordered by Dalian to the north, being about 45 kilometers from downtown Dalian. Lushunkou is part of the “Dalian Coastal – Lushunkou Scenic Area.”
The region consists of coastal hills formed by the remnants of the Changbai Mountain range, with elevations rising from east to west. The area is hilly, with an average altitude of 140 meters, and the highest peak, Laotieshan, reaches 465.6 meters. It is located right at the boundary between the Yellow Sea and the Bohai Sea, earning it the nickname “The End of the Earth” in Liaoning Province.
Key attractions include: Baiyu Mountain, the Lushun Museum, Lushun Railway Station, Victory Tower, the Sino-Soviet Friendship Tower, the former site of the Naval Reception Center, the Soviet Soldier Martyrs’ Cemetery, the 203 Heights, Diyan Battery, the Russo-Japanese War relics at East Chicken Crown Mountain, the former site of the Russo-Japanese prison, the South Ammunition Depot, Snake Island, the Wan Zhongmu Memorial Hall, the Lushun Snake Museum, World Peace Park, the Lushun Naval Port (Naval Port Park), Laotieshan, Longtang Reservoir Cherry Blossom Garden, Laotieshan Hot Springs, and the Lushun Naval Weapon Museum, among others.
Accommodation Guide
Dalian offers a wide range of accommodations, including hotels, inns, and guesthouses, catering to the needs of various travelers. The price for standard rooms in regular hotels typically ranges from 300 to 800 RMB during peak season and from 100 to 200 RMB during the off-season. There are also budget hostels and guesthouses available, with room rates in the peak season generally between 80 and 150 RMB.
The urban area of Dalian isn’t very large, and public transportation is well-developed, making it convenient to stay within the vicinity of spots like Heishijiao, Xinggong Street, Wuyi Square, the train station, Sanba Square, Jiefang Road, Tiger Beach, and Donggang. However, for out-of-town visitors, staying in the city center is the most convenient option. The commercial center of Dalian is near the train station, known as “Qingniwa Bridge,” which locals often refer to as “the street” or “the area in front of the station.” This area is bustling with dining, shopping, and entertainment options, and it’s also where buses to various parts of Dalian converge, serving as the starting point for the rapid transit line.
Some tourist attractions in Dalian also have hotels or resorts for accommodation, such as the Shili Golden Coast in Jinshitan and the Xianyuwan Seaside Resort. However, prices in these scenic areas are usually higher than those in the city, and transportation to other attractions may not be very convenient. Additionally, there are many farm stays and fishing lodges in the surrounding villages and towns, offering budget-friendly options. After a day of tide pooling, you can enjoy a delicious seafood meal and crash on a heated bed for a unique experience.
While Dalian is a coastal city surrounded by the sea on three sides, there aren’t many hotels where you can enjoy direct sea views from your window. Some so-called “ocean view” rooms may only offer views of the dock or distant parts of the sea; this is often the case with so-called ocean-view hotels in the city center. Tourists should double-check their bookings to avoid disappointment. Near the Dalian train station and ferry terminal, you might encounter people trying to lure you into accommodations; be cautious and don’t fall for their pitches. Most of those lodgings are in poor condition and may not be very affordable, and there’s a risk of being forced into low-quality tour groups.
Food Guide
Most people in Dalian are descendants of Shandong folks, which means Dalian cuisine falls under the Shandong culinary style. Being a coastal city, Dalian is rich in seafood, with an abundance of fish, shrimp, crabs, shellfish, and seaweed. As a result, Dalian’s food heavily features seafood, blending influences from both local and international cuisines to create its own unique flavor profile.
Some signature dishes in Dalian include red-roasted whole shrimp, steamed lantern abalone, steamed flathead fish, colorful snowflake scallops, Dalian shrimp paste, stir-fried sea conch, braised seafood family platter, stir-fried sea intestines, Eight Immortals (fresh) crossing the sea, pearl sea urchins, ducks embracing sea cucumbers, and colorful butterfly shrimp.
In addition to seafood, you can also indulge in barbecued dishes, many of which have a maritime twist, like the popular teppanyaki grilled squid. Barbecue joints typically stay open until midnight, and the night markets are buzzing with activity, making them a great spot for hanging out with friends.
Colorful snowflake scallops are made with egg whites, creating a dish that resembles silver-white snowflakes adorned with pearl-like scallops. They are beautifully garnished with seasonal vegetable leaves and peppers, forming vibrant patterns. The dish is not only colorful but also boasts a tender texture and fresh taste. It’s light and refreshing, with a hint of sweetness from the carrots, making it a delightful option that won’t leave you feeling greasy.
Steamed lantern abalone retains its original shape and color, making it look like a lantern when picked up with chopsticks. Placed on a colorful platter, it resembles a large chrysanthemum flower. When you drizzle it with sauce just before eating, the abalone becomes exceptionally flavorful and refreshing. Pair it with some wine, and it’s a delightful experience with a unique taste that sets it apart.
The star of this dish is whole shrimp with the shells left on, except for the intestinal tract. They’re stir-fried with ginger, scallions, and vegetable oil, then seasoned with Shaoxing wine, sugar, and salt. After that, they’re placed in a pot and slow-cooked until the sauce is reduced and absorbed, resulting in a rich and savory flavor.
The main ingredient is fresh garoupa, which is beautifully garnished with ingredients like ginger, scallions, shiitake mushrooms, Jinhua ham, and bamboo shoots arranged by color on the fish. It’s steamed for just 15 minutes, resulting in a visually appealing dish that showcases the freshness of the fish alongside the aromatic flavors of poultry. This dish is a standout delicacy perfect for any banquet or special occasion.
Dalian’s shrimp sauce is typically a unique blend created by various restaurants. It’s often served with scallions and local specialties like salted fish pancakes. The combination results in a delicious and savory flavor that perfectly complements a variety of dishes.
Sea intestines are soft-bodied marine creatures that have a translucent appearance, resembling a piece of sausage, which is how they got their name. They are highly nutritious and are known for their exquisite flavor, often touted as having the nutritional value of seven sea intestines being equivalent to one egg. Stir-fried, they make for a delicious and healthy dish that seafood lovers shouldn’t miss!
Steamed gelatin, or “mènzi,” is made from sweet potato starch. To prepare it, large chunks of the gelatin are placed in a flat iron pan with a small amount of oil. Using a spatula, the gelatin is pressed into smaller pieces and cooked slowly over low heat until the outside is crispy. Once done, it’s topped with sautéed shrimp, sliced sea conch, and a drizzle of garlic paste, sesame sauce, soy sauce, vinegar, and other seasonings. This fragrant dish of “Seafood Steamed Gelatin” is ready to be enjoyed!
Tour Route Guide:
Dalian offers a plethora of attractions, most of which revolve around the theme of the sea. Popular spots like Lushun, Ocean Park, Discovery Kingdom, and Jinshitan typically require a full day to explore. Visitors can adjust their itinerary based on personal preferences and available time.
Dalian Coastal Walk: 2-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Tiger Beach → North Bridge → Yanwo Ridge → Fujiazhuang → Xinghai Square → Xinghai Park
- Morning: Start by taking a bus to Tiger Beach, then head toward Bird Language Forest (the direction of the tiger statue) for a scenic walk. You’ll pass the North Bridge and reach Yanwo Ridge Wedding Park.
- Midday: After about a 30-minute walk from the North Bridge, you’ll find a path leading down to Fujiazhuang, which is beautifully scenic. Take your time here to rest, snap some photos, and enjoy the water.
- Afternoon: Continue walking along the beach to a square at Fujiazhuang featuring a large seashell landmark. If you’re feeling energetic, you can walk about 3 kilometers along the coastal road to Xinghai Square. If you’re not up for the walk, consider taking a taxi instead.
- Evening: For the return trip, you can catch bus 16 or 15 (consider visiting Xinghai Park). If you miss the bus, taxis are relatively inexpensive. Alternatively, if you want to return from Fujiazhuang, it’s easy to take bus 5 to the train station.
Day 2: Welcome Road → Sea Rhythm Park → Bangchuidao → Shichao → Fisherman’s Wharf
- Morning: Take bus 703 to the final stop at Shanping Street. From there, walk up the steps to the bridge, and head in the opposite direction of the bridge to find Welcome Road. This picturesque road leads you to the renowned Bangchuidao Scenic Area (entrance fee: 20 RMB) and Sea Rhythm Park (entrance fee: 10 RMB).
- Midday: If you’re feeling good and have the time, after exploring Bangchuidao or Sea Rhythm Park, you can walk about 7 kilometers along the coastal road toward Shichao and Fisherman’s Wharf, enjoying the sea views along the way.
- Evening: Spend some time at Fisherman’s Wharf to soak up the romantic atmosphere of Dalian. From there, you can take bus 2 or 712 back to the city, just be sure to check the bus schedules.
