This north eastern province has lived through some colourful periods: wrestled-over in both modern and ancient times, the province has now matured into one of China’s industrial hubs (in no short-part due to it’s strategic and geographical position). The capital, Shenyang, is evidence of the areas history, with museums and palaces scattered throughout. Dalian (frequently voted China’s most liveable city) is a superbly-planned modern coastal city boasting state-of-the-art architecture, green squares and more delicious seafood (and beer) that you can poke a fishing rod at.
Shenyang
Shenyang, the capital and largest city of Liaoning province, is a great testament to the by-gone changes and current modernization of the region. In more ancient times, Shenyang was the birthplace of the Manchu Qing Dynasty. Shenyang’s Imperial Palace resemble Beijing’s Forbidden City and is a great place to start your history-lesson. Follow this up with a visit to Marshal Zhang’s Mansion before revelling in Shenyang’s more modernized quarters.
Dalian
Located at the southern tip of the province, Dalian is famed throughout China for it’s sunny beaches and laid-back lifestyle. The Dalian International Beer Festival held in July is a major draw card for the pilsner-connoisseur, but the natural and urban scenery (and seafood, of course) should suffice to attract most visitors.
Jinshitan Scenic Area with it’s surrounding beaches is a must-see, whilst Xinghai Square is an amazing show of modern urban planning. The surrounding areas of Dalian are also blessed with a plethora of hot springs and ski resorts.
Panjin
The Red Beach National Scenic Corridor is a large wetland formed by an abundance of red seaweed. The world’s largest red wetlands, this is one epic biblical-scale view. Drone shots cannot be encouraged enough…
Dandong
A stones throw away from North Korea, Dandong is where the Ming Dynasty Great Wall ends. Hushan Scenic Spot is where you get to see the end of the Great Wall.
Datong is also a nature-lovers highlight. Nearby Phoenix Mountain is transformed into a maple-red wonderland in October, as is the Tianqiaogou Forest Park. If that isn’t enough, April to May sees more than one million migratory birds fly to the Yalu River National Nature Reserve (this spectacular scene is regarded as one of the three best bird watching experiences in the world).
