Dalian

Dalian is a sub-provincial city in Liaoning Province, located at the southernmost tip of the Liaodong Peninsula, surrounded by sea on three sides. It is a renowned port, industrial, and tourist city in northern China, also known as the "Capital of Romance." Here, winters are mild and summers are cool, with over 2,200 kilometers of coastline. The city boasts picturesque scenery where mountains and seas blend harmoniously. Its architecture combines European and Japanese styles, featuring numerous squares and clean streets that blend coastal charm with exotic flair, making it one of the most livable and ideal seaside resorts in Northeast China.

1. Star Sea Plaza

Xinghai Square, Asia's largest urban plaza and a landmark of Dalian, overlooks the sea with expansive views. Its centerpiece features a century-old city sculpture, footprint reliefs, and the iconic "Celestial Script" sculpture. At dusk, visitors can witness breathtaking sunsets and the dazzling light show of Xinghai Bay Cross-Sea Bridge, while enjoying refreshing sea breezes and a glittering night sky. This makes it an ideal spot for strolls, cycling, and seaside relaxation.

2. Tiger Beach Ocean Park

Tiger Beach, a renowned 5A-level scenic area in Dalian, is nestled along the southern coastline with over 4,000 meters of winding shoreline. The park integrates marine animal exhibits, performances, and recreational activities, featuring venues such as the Polar Museum, Coral Museum, and Marine Animal Pavilion. Visitors can observe polar marine creatures like white whales, dolphins, and penguins, while enjoying maritime sightseeing tours and sea-crossing cable car rides. It stands as the top choice for family trips and ocean-themed entertainment.

3. Jinshitan

Jinshitan, located in eastern Dalian, is a national-level tourist resort renowned for its "magical stones" and golden coastline. The area boasts kilometers of pristine beaches with crystal-clear waters and fine sand, along with unique coastal geological formations such as fissured rocks and dinosaur sea explorations within the coastal geological park. It also features attractions like Discovery Kingdom Theme Park and hot spring resorts, making it an ideal destination for sand play, seaside viewing, photography, and leisure vacations.

4. Binhai Road

Binhai Road is hailed as one of the "most beautiful coastal highways in China", stretching over 30 kilometers with its winding route nestled between mountains and the sea. On one side lies dense green forests, while on the other stretches a clear blue sky and azure waters. Along the way, it connects several scenic spots including Fujiazhuang, Yanwo Ridge, North Bridge, and Bangchui Island. In spring, azaleas bloom profusely, and in autumn, the forests are painted in vibrant colors, making it ideal for hiking, cycling, or self-driving trips. The entire journey unfolds like a picturesque mountain-sea panorama.

5. Dalian Forest Zoo

The Forest Zoo, nestled in the scenic Baiyun Mountain area with its mountainous and coastal setting, features a natural environment divided into two main zones: an enclosure area and a free-range area. Home to over 200 species and more than 3,000 animals, the park allows visitors to observe wild animals and adorable pets on foot, or take sightseeing vehicles through the free-range areas for close encounters with giraffes, zebras, and antelopes. It stands as an ideal destination for nature immersion and family bonding activities.

6. Oriental Water City (Venice Water City)

Inspired by Venice, Oriental Water City is nestled in Donggang Business District, where canals crisscross and European-style architecture dominates the landscape. The area features arched bridges, gondolas, covered walkways, and sculptures, making it perfect for capturing European-style photos during the day. At night, as the lights come on, the buildings reflect in the water, creating a scene reminiscent of a European town—romantic and dreamy. It has become one of Dalian's most popular Instagrammable spots.

7. Russian Style Street

The Russian Style Street is China's first fully preserved old street with authentic Russian architectural features, boasting a history of over a century. This compact street is flanked by vibrant Russian-style buildings with pointed domes, where shops sell matryoshka dolls, chocolates, and handicrafts, exuding an exotic charm. It serves as an ideal destination for quick sightseeing, photo-taking, and experiencing unique foreign cultural ambiance.

8. Lüshunkou

Lüshunkou, a historic and cultural district of Dalian, commands strategic control over the Bohai Strait with its rugged terrain, earning it the title of "Gateway to Beijing and Tianjin." This area boasts natural wonders such as the military port, Old Tieshan Mountain, and the Yellow Sea-Bohai Sea boundary line, alongside modern historical landmarks including the former Russo-Japanese Prison Site, Baiyushan Mountain, and Hill 203. It stands as a must-visit destination for exploring Dalian's modern history and experiencing the breathtaking scenery of this coastal stronghold.

9. Bangchui Island

Bangchui Island, located on the eastern section of Haibin Road, is a small offshore island named for its resemblance to a mallet. The island features lush vegetation and rugged rocks, surrounded by fine sandy beaches and crystal-clear seawater, creating a serene and tranquil environment. It was once the site of a state guesthouse. With its gentle slopes and mild sea breeze, it ranks among Dalian's finest seaside bathing areas, ideal for swimming, leisure activities, and coastal sightseeing.

10. Saintya Ocean World

Located within Star Sea Park, Saint Ya Ocean World is China's first underwater tunnel aquarium. Featuring attractions such as the Underwater Tunnel, Polar World, and Coral World, visitors can explore the ocean floor via an 118-meter underwater tunnel, observe marine life including sharks and rays, and enjoy captivating performances like "Love in Dolphin Bay" and "The Legend of the White Whale," immersing themselves in the mystery and romance of the ocean.