Dalian大连

Overview

Dalian is Liaoning's second-largest city on the southern tip of the Liaodong Peninsula, surrounded by sea on three sides with a pleasant climate. Xinghai Square is Asia's largest city square overlooking the Bohai Sea. Laohutan Ocean Park and Jinshitan are famous coastal resorts. Lushun Port witnessed the vicissitudes of modern Chinese history. Russian and Japanese style streets reflect the city's multicultural heritage. Dalian's seafood is abundant and fresh: sea cucumber, abalone, and prawns are table staples. Summer holidays in Dalian make it North China's most popular coastal destination.

Key Facts

Top Attractions

Xinghai Square

Asia's largest city square at 1.76 million sqm with panoramic views of Bohai Bay. Features a Huabiao pillar, century monument, and musical fountain.

Laohutan Ocean Park

One of China's largest ocean parks with polar ocean hall, coral hall, and marine animal hall. Watch dolphin shows and penguins.

Jinshitan (Golden Pebble Beach) Resort

5A national scenic area with unique coastal landforms and geological wonders, called a 'natural geological museum'. The 10km Golden Beach is Dalian's most beautiful.

Lushun Port (Port Arthur)

A witness to modern Chinese history. Lushun Naval Port, Baiyushan, and the Japan-Russia Prison record the history of the First Sino-Japanese and Russo-Japanese wars.

Russian Style Street

Preserves century-old Russian architecture. Lined with Russian-style buildings, restaurants, and craft shops, full of exotic charm.

Binhai Road (Coastal Road)

A 32km coastal highway called 'Lover's Road'. Stunning ocean views along the way. Walk, cycle, or drive—Dalian's most romantic route.

Food & Snacks

Dalian Sea Cucumber

Dalian sea cucumber is one of China's finest varieties. Thick, tender, and bouncy. Braised with scallions is the classic preparation.

Dalian Grilled Prawns

Fresh Bohai Bay prawns charcoal-grilled to red-gold perfection. Sweet and bouncy, a signature of Dalian's seafood grilling.

Dalian Fried Menzi (Starch Cake)

Dalian's signature street food. Starch cake pan-fried until crispy outside and soft inside, dipped in sesame sauce and garlic juice.

Dalian Seafood Dumplings

Dumplings filled with Spanish mackerel, shrimp, sea cucumber and other seafood. Fresh and juicy, Dalian's most distinctive pasta.

Festivals & Events

World & Intangible Heritage

• Changhai Fishermen's Work Songs (2014) — Traditional fishermen's work songs from Dalian, sung during maritime operations with powerful, rhythmic beats. Designated as National Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2014.
• Dalian Shell Carving (2008) — Traditional Dalian craft using natural shells carved into exquisite artworks with natural colors and fine craftsmanship. Designated as Provincial Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2008.

Practical Tips