Dalian ranks as one of China’s premier travel destinations because it offers such a diverse range of things to see and do. Its massive port area, seaside spots and in-town beaches provide plenty of maritime activity, but there’s also an important military history to Dalian. The city is best known for its public squares, which are a by product of the Russian and Japanese occupation periods. Dalian is a great city for pedestrians, so wandering the ethnic neighbourhoods and lingering in one of the 30 squares is a real highlight. Just outside Dalian there are amazing nature parks, where mountainous trails provide even more outdoor diversion.
Bangchuidao Scenic Area
At the far eastern end of Beach Road lies this beautiful nature park that is well worth a visit. With mountains to the north, sea and sand to the south, and vast swathes of grass in between there is plenty to see and do. Summer is the best time to visit, as the swimming and walking are superb. Fog-shrouded San Sahn Island lies just offshore, and there’s even a resort on hand if you can’t pull yourself away from the beauty and relative calm of the place. Phone: +86 411 8451 9940.
Golden Pebble Beach
There are dozens of beaches in and around Dalian, but to experience the best sand and scenery on offer make the quick trip out to Golden Pebble Beach. Named for the unique rock formations surrounding the area, there are plenty of entertaining tourist attractions and market stalls here to complement the sand. It’s a very popular destination, but if you go during a lull you’ll have a lot more breathing space. Best of all, the light rail train runs right from Dalian to the beach.
Jinshi Yuan Park
A forest of monolithic rock formations reaching 20 metres in some places has been protected as Jinshi Yuan Park. Sculpted from limestone by the forces of nature, the rocks take on some truly astounding shapes. It’s a great place to wander around and ponder the surreal formations created some 600 million years ago. Also nearby is the Stone Collection Hall, a museum featuring some of the coolest rocks imaginable. The highlights here include the Muyu stone, which makes the sound of water when shaken, the five colour stone, which surely must have been painted, and the Ling Bi stone, which is capable of creating five different musical notes. Phone: +86 411 8790 0151.
Naval Ships Exhibition Centre
Anyone with an interest in giant ships will want to visit this former Soviet cruiser which is now docked at Dalian’s port. Since its retirement, the ship has been transformed into a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can wander throughout the huge ship and see the inner workings of a Russian-built missile cruiser. Phone: +86 411 451 9940.
White Cloud Mountain
Another of Dalian’s incredibly scenic natural highlights is this mountain park that tops out at 259 metres. The main objective here is to get to West Peak, which offers panoramic views of Dalian, Fu Jia Village, and Xiaoping Island that are unbeatable. Swivel to face the northwest and the view reveals just how stunning the coastline is as it twists and rolls its way north to the mainland. For an eye-popping day excursion, it doesn’t get any better than White Cloud Mountain. Phone: +86 411 362 9833.
Xinghai Square
Of the 30 public squares around Dalian, one of the most significant and interesting is Xinghai. Located in the western part of downtown, Xinghai is the largest square in Asia and the site of most of the city’s main festivals. The Xinghai Exhibition Centre is here which often has something going on. There is also the Shengya Aquarium and one of the best swimming beaches in the city right next door. Ferries from the adjacent docks can take visitors out to the Bangchuidao and Laohutan scenic areas.
Xingshui Temple
This Taoist temple was built during the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD) and features a natural cavern which runs 40 metres into the heart of the mountain. A small spring flows from the cave that is funneled into an opening in a stone wall. As the water gushes out the sound echoes across the valley. Also nearby is the Chao Yang Temple and the Guan Yin Pavilion, both of which are popular destinations for Taoist devotees. These temples offer a good glimpse at the traditional rituals of local Taoists. Phone: +86 411 8764 7565
Blend the natural with the cultural during a daytrip to Big Black Mountain Forest Park (Daheishan). This impressive park centres on the first major mountain in the southern Liaoning Peninsula. Its natural amenities include a lush forest featuring more than 500 species of plants and trees where the hiking trails offer excellent walking. Just as enticing are the ancient cultural sites within the park. Tang Wang Palace, Sha City, Zhaoyang Temple and Xiangshui Temple are all attractions in their own right and definitely worth checking out. Phone: +86 411 8769 3233
Get a bird’s eye view of Dalian from the heights of Baiyu Hill. Just outside of the city along the north side of Lushun Bay is this mellow hill that tops out at 130 metres. Visitors can reach the summit by either hiking, driving or taking a tram from town. The panoramic views from the top encompass Dalian, Lushun Harbour, Laotie Mountain and everything beyond. For a bit of history, check out the stately Baiyushan Tower dedicated to China’s military prowess and the German cannon left over from earlier wars.
Hit the beach with the locals for a new perspective on Chinese holidaymaking. Dalian’s beaches attract hordes of Chinese throughout the year searching for some relaxation and fresh air. There are dozens to choose from in and around the city, including China’s largest beach, Dalian Beach. This man-made swimming spot has good sand, three piers full of shops and restaurants and thousands of locals. During the peak summer months the place is awash with visitors despite being the largest beach in the country. If you want to experience a side of China that is truly different, dive into the mass of half-nude humans and test your mettle.
Soak your bones at Anbo Hot Springs. If you need a break from Dalian, make the drive north to Anbo, where an entire recreation and vacation scene has been established around its impressive hot springs. The waters here are rich in minerals and elemental compounds reputed to be excellent for the health. There are numerous hotels, spas and resorts on site to cater to your every need. It’s an easy drive, but you’ll probably want to make an overnighter of it. Phone: +86 411 451 9940
Take a boat out to one of the tiny islands that dot the waters just off shore from Dalian. A great way to spend the day is to hop on one of the tourist ferries and visit an island. Among the most popular destinations is San Shan Island, a geologically colourful spot with great seaside scenery and a decent array of entertaining activities. Also nearby is Snake Island, a tiny speck completely covered in towering cliffs and the epitome of remote. Just keep an eye out for the black eyebrowed adder while you explore the terrain.
