Dalian, Northern China
Dalian is a major city in Liaoning Province, situated on the Liaodong Peninsula. Known for its beautiful beaches, clean streets, and a mix of modern and historical architecture, it is often called the “Hong Kong of the North.” Dalian’s unique coastal charm, vibrant nightlife, and modern cityscape make it one of China’s top tourist destinations. It is also recognized as an important trading port and financial center.
Top Tourist Attractions in Dalian
Xinghai Square (星海广场)
- Description: The largest city square in Asia, Xinghai Square is a vast open area by the seaside. It’s popular for evening strolls, kite flying, and watching the sunset. Surrounding the square are gardens, sculptures, and an amusement park.
- Highlights: Sculptures, seaside views, kite flying, and evening lights.
- Entrance Fee: Free.
- Opening Hours: Open 24 hours.
- How to Get There: Take metro Line 1 to Xinghai Square Station or buses 16, 22, or 406.
Tiger Beach Ocean Park (老虎滩海洋公园)
- Description: A large marine park located on the coast, Tiger Beach Ocean Park features an aquarium, polar region exhibits, animal performances, and scenic areas along the coast. The park is a great place for family outings.
- Highlights: Aquarium, marine animal shows, sea lions, polar bears, and panoramic sea views.
- Entrance Fee: ¥150-¥220.
- Opening Hours: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM.
- How to Get There: Take buses 2, 4, or 30 to Tiger Beach Ocean Park Station.
Golden Pebble Beach (金石滩)
- Description: A picturesque beach with unique rock formations, Golden Pebble Beach is part of the Jinshitan National Tourist Resort. It is an ideal destination for beachgoers and nature lovers, offering activities like golf, horse riding, and hiking along the scenic coast.
- Highlights: Rock formations, clean beaches, water sports, golf courses, and scenic hiking trails.
- Entrance Fee: Free to access the beach; other activities may have fees.
- Opening Hours: Open 24 hours.
- How to Get There: Take metro Line 3 to Jinshitan Station (about 50 minutes from downtown).
Dalian Forest Zoo (大连森林动物园)
- Description: Nestled in the hills of Dalian, this large zoo offers visitors a chance to see a variety of animals, including pandas, tigers, and monkeys, in naturalistic settings. It’s also home to botanical gardens and hiking trails.
- Highlights: Pandas, safari area, exotic animals, and nature walks.
- Entrance Fee: ¥120.
- Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
- How to Get There: Take bus 5, 541, or 702 to Dalian Forest Zoo Station.
Binhai Road (滨海路)
- Description: A scenic coastal road stretching 32 kilometers along the southern coast of Dalian, Binhai Road offers stunning views of the sea and cliffs. It’s popular for driving, cycling, and walking, with several scenic spots and beaches along the way.
- Highlights: Panoramic sea views, scenic walks, quiet beaches, and cliffs.
- Entrance Fee: Free.
- Opening Hours: Open 24 hours.
- How to Get There: Take bus 404 to Binhai Road Scenic Area or drive/rent a bike for a more leisurely experience.
Dalian Discoveryland Theme Park (大连发现王国主题公园)
- Description: A fun amusement park with roller coasters, water rides, and themed areas such as Magic Forest and Metal Factory. It’s a popular destination for families and thrill-seekers.
- Highlights: Roller coasters, live shows, and family-friendly attractions.
- Entrance Fee: ¥210-¥260.
- Opening Hours: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM.
- How to Get There: Take metro Line 3 to Jinshitan Station, then take a taxi or bus 3 to the park.
How to Get Around Dalian
- Metro: Dalian has a modern metro system with three main lines (Line 1, 2, and 3) that connect major parts of the city, including tourist attractions like Xinghai Square and Golden Pebble Beach.
- Public Buses: The bus system is comprehensive and covers most areas of the city, including the outskirts. Buses are affordable and widely used.
- Taxis and Ride-hailing: Taxis are easy to find in Dalian, and ride-hailing services like Didi are also popular.
- Walking and Biking: The coastal areas, especially around Xinghai Square and Binhai Road, are walkable and bike-friendly, with dedicated paths for pedestrians and cyclists.
- Car Rental: If you prefer exploring on your own, car rentals are available at the airport and throughout the city.
Popular Local Food in Dalian
Dalian Seafood (大连海鲜): As a coastal city, Dalian is famous for its seafood. Popular dishes include steamed clams, grilled prawns, sea cucumbers, and crabs.
- Recommended Spot: Tianjin Street Night Market (天津街夜市) is one of the best places to try fresh seafood.
Menzi (焖子): A traditional dish made from mung bean starch, Menzi is served stir-fried with garlic, chili, and vinegar.
- Recommended Spot: Lao Menzi Restaurant (老焖子馆) offers the best version of this local delicacy.
Sea Cucumber Congee (海参粥): This dish is a smooth and nutritious rice porridge made with sea cucumber, popular for breakfast or a light meal.
- Recommended Spot: Kaiyue Congee House (凯悦粥店) specializes in seafood-based congee.
Dalian-Style Pancakes (大连煎饼): A savory snack made from a thin pancake filled with egg, scallions, and various fillings like pork or seafood.
- Recommended Spot: Local food stalls in Qingniwaqiao (青泥洼桥).
Fried Pork with Sweet and Sour Sauce (糖醋里脊): A popular dish in northern China, Dalian’s version often features fresh pork battered and fried to perfection with a sweet and sour sauce.
- Recommended Spot: Dahe Japanese Restaurant (大河日本料理) offers a mix of Chinese and Japanese-style dishes, including this regional favorite.
Top Nightlife Spots in Dalian
Kiss Bar
- Description: A popular expat bar, Kiss Bar is known for its friendly atmosphere, live music, and great cocktails. It’s a lively spot for both locals and tourists to unwind in the evenings.
- How to Get There: Located near the Russian Street, take metro Line 2 to Qingniwaqiao Station and walk.
- Entrance Fee: Free.
- Happy Hours: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM, offering discounted cocktails and beers.
JD’s Bar
- Description: A well-known bar with a laid-back vibe, JD’s Bar is a favorite among expats and locals. It offers live music, DJ performances, and a selection of international beers.
- How to Get There: Located on Zhongshan Road, accessible by metro Line 2 or by taxi.
- Entrance Fee: Free.
- Happy Hours: 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM, featuring discounts on local beers.
Lenbach Beer House
- Description: Known for its German-style brews and hearty meals, Lenbach Beer House offers a great selection of imported beers and traditional German food. The ambiance is perfect for a relaxed night out.
- How to Get There: Located in the city center, near Xinghai Square. Accessible by metro Line 1.
- Entrance Fee: Free.
- Happy Hours: 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM, with discounted beers and appetizers.
Q Bar
- Description: Located in the Kempinski Hotel, Q Bar is a high-end spot for cocktails and jazz music. With its modern design and premium service, it’s a great place for a sophisticated night out.
- How to Get There: Located in the Kempinski Hotel near Zhongshan Square, accessible by metro Line 2.
- Entrance Fee: Free entry.
- Happy Hours: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM, with discounts on premium cocktails and wines.
Coco Banana Club
- Description: For those seeking a lively club scene, Coco Banana offers a vibrant atmosphere with DJ sets, dancing, and light shows. It’s one of the most popular nightclubs in Dalian.
- How to Get There: Located on Youhao Square, take metro Line 2 to Zhongshan Square Station.
- Entrance Fee: ¥100-¥200, depending on the night and events.
- Happy Hours: No specific happy hours, but early entry (before 10 PM) often includes discounted entry or free drinks.
Dalian offers a combination of modern urban life and beautiful natural landscapes, making it a wonderful place to explore both by day and night!