Dalian’s frequently applied label, ‘the Hong Kong of the north’, is an apt comparison to its bustling cosmopolitan sister city along the southern coast. Few other places in China have embraced such an open arms attitude towards the wider world, and it shows in every detail. Gleaming skyscrapers define Dalian’s silhouette, supported by one of the hottest nightlife scenes in China, ultramodern shopping venues and excellent dining.

With its watery location, it’s no surprise that Dalian is well-endowed with some of China’s hottest seaside amusement parks and aquariums. Kids will have plenty of options in this city to keep them entertained. To round off the themeparks, Dalian has a decent forest zoo and a quirky wax museum.

Spring Fireworks Festival: coinciding with the lunar calendar is one of Dalian’s main winter doldrums breakers. Thousands of tourists from China and abroad visit the city during this week to enjoy ice carving exhibitions, folk art performances, and of course, the huge fireworks display.

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.

Dalian’s international airport, Zhoushuizi Guoji Jichang, is located 10kms from the downtown area. More than 30 cities in 14 countries, as well as most of China’s domestic travel destinations, are serviced daily by many international and Chinese airlines. Travellers can connect to North America, Europe, Russia, South Asia and Asia with ease, testifying to the importance of Dalian as a centre for commerce and tourism.

Banks: 08:30 to 17:30, Monday to Friday
Post Offices: 08:00 to 20:00, Monday to Friday
Department Stores and Shops: 10:00 to 18:00, daily
Museums: 10:00 to 17:00, Tuesday to Saturday
Business Offices: 09:00 to 17:00, Monday to Friday