Tourism, China, LiaoNing
1
Shenyang Imperial Palace
Shenyang Imperial Palace, also known as Shengjing Imperial Palace, was the imperial palace of the early Qing Dynasty. It is not only one of the two remaining royal palace complexes in China, but also the only royal architectural complex outside the Great Wall. The palace architecture is highly characteristic of the Manchu style, with its halls and pavilions arranged in a harmonious and orderly manner, carved beams and painted rafters, and ornate and exquisite decorations, showcasing royal grandeur everywhere. Strolling through it is like traveling through time, experiencing the glory of an era of war and conquest.
Address: No. 171 Shenyang Road, Shenhe District, Shenyang City. Tickets: 50 RMB/person, advance reservations possible.
2Benxi Water Cave
Benxi Water Cave is a world-renowned natural wonder and the longest underground river in the world that can be explored by boat. A rare spectacle in the world. Entering the cave by boat, colorful lights illuminate the uniquely shaped stalactites, creating a scene reminiscent of a fairyland. These are masterpieces sculpted by nature, offering a highly scenic experience and allowing visitors to truly appreciate the wonders of nature. Address: Located on the banks of the Taizi River in the eastern mountainous area, 26 kilometers from Benxi City. Tickets: Water Cave + Dry Cave Adult Ticket 110 RMB/person. 
3
Qianshan Mountain
Qianshan Mountain, a famous Taoist and Buddhist holy site in Liaoning, boasts numerous temples and monasteries with simple and elegant architecture, beautiful peaks, and lush vegetation, earning it the reputation of "Pearl of Northeast China." The mountain offers stunning natural scenery, with ancient temples and monasteries scattered throughout, offering different views in each season. Visitors can admire the unique peaks and rocks and experience the rich historical culture. Address: No. 79, Qianshan East Road, Qianshan District, Anshan City. Ticket Price: 60 RMB/person in off-season, 80 RMB/person in peak season. 
4
Dandong Phoenix Mountain
Dandong Phoenix Mountain is known as the "National Gateway Mountain", "First Mountain in Liaodong", "First Mountain of the Great Wall", and "China's No. 1 Adventure Mountain". It is definitely worth a visit when traveling to Liaoning. Hiking along the winding mountain path, you'll find lush forests and majestic, precipitous mountains. Walking along the steep "Old Ox Back" ridge is truly thrilling, with breathtaking scenery along the way. You can also experience the exhilarating cable car ride. Address: No. 800 Fengshan Road, Fengcheng City, Dandong City. Tickets: 60 RMB/person in off-season, 80 RMB/person in peak season. 
5
Red Beach National Scenic Corridor
Panjin Red Beach is a renowned natural wonder in Liaoning Province and a unique natural reed wetland in the world.
The unique and spectacular Red Beach, stretching 18 kilometers, is hailed as the world's red coastline. Summer is the best season to visit, when the fiery red, lush Suaeda salsa plants shine even more brightly under the summer sun. Strolling along the wooden boardwalk, you can get up close to the Suaeda salsa plants that resemble burning flames and experience the wonder of nature. Besides the Red Beach, you can also enjoy bird watching, boating, cycling, and the creative rice paddy art in the surrounding area. Everywhere you look is full of fun and well worth a visit. Address: Located on Binhai Avenue, Zhaoquanhe Town, Dawa District, Panjin City, Liaoning Province. Admission: Free.
6Xingcheng Ancient City
Xingcheng Ancient City was a strategic location and military stronghold in ancient times, and is one of the four best-preserved Ming Dynasty ancient cities in my country. The ancient city retains numerous historical sites; its towering ancient city walls, antique stone archways, and Confucian temple bear witness to the city's historical changes and maintain a strong sense of local life.
Address: Located at the south end of Yanhui Street, Gucheng Ancient City, Xingcheng City, Huludao City. Ticket: 100 yuan/person for all tickets.
7Jinshitan Resort Area
Jinshitan is a famous seaside tourist destination in Northeast China, with a coastline of tens of kilometers. Stroll along the beach, where the seawater is clear, the rocks are unique, and the waves crash against the reefs. Enjoy the magnificent coastal scenery, explore the unique and strange sea erosion landforms, and watch a charming sunrise and sunset. Address: Jinshitan National Tourist Resort, Jinzhou District, Dalian City. Tickets: Jinshitan Geopark admission fee 60 yuan/person. 
8
Fengguo Temple
Fengguo Temple is one of the three major Liao Dynasty temples still existing in China and is well worth a visit. The solemn and sacred Mahavira Hall is a relatively large single-eaved wooden structure among the ancient Chinese architectural remains. The all-wood structure is a treasure of ancient art. The Liao Dynasty painted sculptures hidden in the hall are breathtaking. The architecture is magnificent, and a closer look reveals its profound cultural heritage.
Address: No. 18, Dongjie Street, Yixian County, Jinzhou City. Ticket Price: 50 RMB/person.
9Bijia Mountain
Bijia Mountain in Jinzhou is a famous Taoist mountain and scenic spot. It is a small island in the sea and boasts stunning mountain and sea views. Bijia Mountain is named for its peaks resembling a pen holder. Numerous Taoist temples are built on the mountain, including Zhenren Temple, Lüzu Pavilion, and Sanqing Pavilion. In addition, there is a pebble path formed by the tides between Bijia Mountain and the coast, also known as the "Sky Road in the Water," which appears and disappears with the ebb and flow of the tides.
Address: No. 1 Bohai Street, Jinzhou Economic and Technological Development Zone Admission: 65 RMB/person
10Niuheliang Site Museum
The Niuheliang Site belongs to the Hongshan Culture site of the late Neolithic period. It has a long history and is a shining pearl of the Hongshan Culture, hailed as "the new dawn of Eastern civilization." The Niuheliang Site Museum is a modern museum specializing in Hongshan Culture sites. It displays the remains of the ancient Hongshan Culture, allowing visitors to view artifacts and explore historical mysteries.
Address: No. 3-75, Zhangfudian Village, Fushan Street, Jianping County, Chaoyang City, Liaoning Province. Admission: Museum ticket 60 yuan/person, sightseeing bus ticket 20 yuan/person.
I. Natural Wonders: The Masterpieces of Western Liaoning
1. Phoenix Mountain: A Buddhist Holy Land with Three Pagodas
As a "Famous Buddhist Mountain in Northeast China," Phoenix Mountain boasts "One Temple and Three Pagodas" (Yanshou Temple, Lingxiao Pagoda, Moyun Pagoda, and Dabao Pagoda), which are over a thousand years old. In 2025, a "glass viewing platform" opened, offering panoramic views of the three pagodas and the city from an altitude of 668 meters. In the morning mist, it resembles a fairyland. It is recommended to climb the mountain at 8 am, walk the "Blessing Trail" past 108 stone Buddhas, and offer incense and prayers at the "Upside-Down Guanyin Cave." After reaching the summit, take panoramic photos at "Phoenix Square," where the three Liao Dynasty pagodas and the main peak "Phoenix Peak" complement each other beautifully. Wearing Hanfu for photos, the flowing robes blend harmoniously with the ancient architecture.
Tickets are 50 yuan, half price for students. At the foot of the mountain, a vegetarian restaurant offers tofu pudding (5 yuan/bowl) and Chaoyang sesame cakes (3 yuan/each), a popular breakfast choice for locals.
2. Bird Fossil National Park: A Dinosaur World 120 Million Years Ago
The world's largest Mesozoic fossil treasure trove. In 2025, the "Jehol Biota" exhibition hall will add a VR experience (30 yuan/person). Wearing the device, you can "travel" to the Cretaceous period and see pterosaurs flying overhead. A highlight is the "Liaoning Archaeocarpus" fossil, the world's earliest flowering plant from 145 million years ago; at the "fossil excavation site," watch researchers restore dinosaur fossils, and if you're lucky, you might find small fossil fragments (not to be taken away). The "Dinosaur-themed Restaurant" in the park offers "Dinosaur Egg Rice Balls" (15 yuan/serving) and fossil-shaped cakes (20 yuan/piece), perfect for families with children to learn while eating. Tickets are 80 yuan, and audio guides are available for rent at 20 yuan per unit, providing detailed explanations of the stories behind the fossils.
3. Daheishan: The Four Seasons Surprises of the Highest Peak in Western Liaoning
At an altitude of 1074 meters, Daheishan Mountain is covered in rhododendron blossoms in spring (April-May). The "Stargazing Campsite" will open in 2025, offering views of the Milky Way from tents costing 300 yuan per tent. In autumn (September-October), the mountain is ablaze with red leaves. Hiking the "Journey to the West Wonderland" trail, passing by figurative rocks such as "Tang Monk's Hat" and "Pigsy Stone," feels like stepping into a scene from "Journey to the West." Recommended experience: "Forest Leap" (80 yuan/person), a 1200-meter zipline traversing the forest, offering panoramic views of the magnificent "peaks vying for beauty"; after descending the mountain, head to "Heishan Farmhouse" for "Free-Range Chicken Stew with Mushrooms" (68 yuan/pot), featuring tender and flavorful free-range chicken served with "Corn Grough Porridge" (5 yuan/bowl), a warming and refreshing meal.
4. Yanshan Lake: A picturesque landscape of a lake emerging from a high gorge
An artificial lake formed by damming the Daling River. The "Lakeside Cycling Path" will be open in 2025. Rent a family bicycle (30 yuan/hour) to cycle along the 12-kilometer shoreline and see "Golden Turtle Island" and "Lotus Island" dotting the lake.
We recommend taking a boat trip on the lake (50 yuan/person) and listening to the boatman tell the "Legend of Yanshan Lake"; bird watching at "Swan Bay" is also recommended. Every year from March to April and October to November, thousands of swans roost here, and drone aerial photography can capture the breathtaking scene of "tens of thousands of birds soaring". The "fishermen's restaurants" by the lake offer freshly caught and cooked bighead carp. The "Stewed Bighead Carp" (88 yuan/portion) has delicate meat and is served with "pan-fried pancakes" (10 yuan/portion). The crispy edges of the pancakes soak up the soup and are a staple dish for entertaining distinguished guests in western Liaoning.
II. Historical Sites: The Millennial Echoes of the Hongshan Culture
1. Niuheliang Site: The Code of 5000 Years of Hongshan Civilization
As one of the "originating sites of Chinese civilization," the Niuheliang Site's "Goddess Temple" and "Stone Mounds" showcase the sacrificial culture of the Hongshan people. In 2025, the "Digital Exhibition Hall" will use 3D technology to restore the original appearance of the Goddess Statue, allowing you to touch virtual artifacts and learn about jade processing techniques. We recommend focusing on seeing replicas of national treasures such as the "Jade Pig Dragon" and the "Hook-shaped Jade Pendant." Stroll through the "Site Park," observe the layout of the altar from 5000 years ago, and take photos in front of the "Goddess Statue" sculpture while wearing light-colored clothing against the backdrop of the vast Liaoxi landscape, imbued with a profound sense of history. Tickets are 60 yuan. It's recommended to hire a guide (50 yuan) to hear about the connection between the "Red Mountain Goddess" and the "Legend of the Yellow Emperor."
2. South Pagoda: The Enduring Legend of a Liao Dynasty Pagoda
The South Pagoda, one of the "Twin Pagodas" of Chaoyang, is a 13-story, multi-eaved brick pagoda that has stood for a thousand years. In 2025, the "Underground Palace Cultural Relics Exhibition" opened, showcasing over 60 pieces of Liao Dynasty gold and silver artifacts, porcelain, etc., including a rare "glass bottle"—a Liao Dynasty glass artifact.
2. South Pagoda: The Enduring Legend of a Liao Dynasty Pagoda
The South Pagoda, one of the "Twin Pagodas" of Chaoyang, is a 13-story, multi-eaved brick pagoda that has stood for a thousand years. In 2025, the "Underground Palace Cultural Relics Exhibition" opened, exhibiting over 60 pieces of Liao Dynasty gold and silver artifacts, porcelain, etc., among which the "glass bottle" is a rare Liao Dynasty glass artifact.
3. Murong Street: A Time Tunnel of the Ancient Capital of the Three Yan States
A cultural street set against the backdrop of the capital of the Murong Yan State. The "Three Yan Museum" will open in 2025, exhibiting national treasures such as the "Duck-shaped Glass Pourer" and the "Golden Hairpin." Admission is free but reservations are required. We recommend visiting the "Hongshan Jade Shop" to see artisans carving agate and serpentine jade on site; at the "Murong Tavern," enjoy a bowl of "Sanyan Imperial Wine" (20 yuan/liang) and listen to the owner tell the story of the historical connection between "Murong Fu and the Great Yan"; at night, the "Murong Night Market" offers intangible cultural heritage shadow puppet shows (10 yuan/show), where you can watch excerpts from "Demi-Gods and Semi-Devils" and experience the charm of traditional culture.
III. Grasslands and Wetlands: The Gentle Background of Western Liaoning
1. Ulanmutu Mountain: The Rise of the Khitan People
1. Ulanmutu Mountain: The Land of the Khitan People
The Mongolian name means "red mountain." Its main peak is 831.4 meters above sea level. During the 2025 Rhododendron Festival, 100,000 mu of rhododendrons bloomed into a sea of color. Walking on the wooden boardwalk in a white dress, every snapshot looks like a "Little Switzerland of the North." We recommend climbing "General Peak," seeing the "Five Warriors Rock" and other rock formations resembling mythical creatures, and hearing the legend of the "Khitan General Guarding the Border." Walk clockwise three times in front of the "Ovoo" (cairn) and tie a hada (ceremonial scarf) for blessings.
At the foot of the mountain, the "Khitan Tribe" offers roasted whole lamb (888 yuan/each) and hand-pulled mutton (88 yuan/jin), accompanied by "mare's milk wine" (15 yuan/cup), allowing you to experience the boldness of the grassland people.
2. Baishi Wetland: A Paradise for Migratory Birds
As the "largest inland wetland in Northeast China," Baishi Wetland's "birdwatching platform" is equipped with binoculars (free of charge), allowing you to observe over 180 species of migratory birds, including red-crowned cranes and oriental white storks. It is recommended to visit in spring (April-May) to watch swan migration and in autumn (September-October) to photograph the golden reeds. Wear light-colored clothing and stroll along the "wetland boardwalk," where waterbirds will fly by. Drone aerial photography reveals the "wetland as kidney" landscape art. The wetland is free to enter, and it is recommended to drive there. Navigate to "Baishi Reservoir Wetland Park". The "wetland fish feast" (50 yuan per person) at the surrounding farmhouses is worth trying. Steamed perch (68 yuan/fish) and deep-fried small river shrimp (38 yuan/serving) are so fresh that you can taste the fragrance of aquatic plants.
IV. Chaoyang on the Tip of the Tongue: Hardcore Carbs and Warm Flavors
1. Chaoyang Baked Cake: The Carb King of the Streets
The sesame paste baked cake (2 yuan/piece) of "Tagou Baked Cake" is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. In 2025, "sugar baked cake" (3 yuan/piece) was added. The brown sugar filling is juicy when you bite into it. It is a local breakfast staple when paired with "lamb offal soup". Recommended: "Chaoyang Baked Flatbread with Meat" (10 yuan/piece). Slices of braised pig's head meat are stuffed into the flatbread, along with green peppers and onions. The aroma of meat blends with the fragrance of wheat. When you bite into it, the meat juice bursts out. The owner will say, "Our flatbread has many layers. It crumbles when you bite into it." Recommended pairing: "Lingyuan Tofu Pudding" (5 yuan/bowl). Tender tofu with braised eggs and fried meatballs is a "golden combination" for Chaoyang residents to beat the summer heat.
3. Lamb Offal Soup: A Warm Relief in the Morning
The lamb offal soup (15 yuan/bowl) at "West Street Lamb Offal Soup" uses fresh lamb offal, simmered in lamb bone broth for 4 hours. The "Premium Lamb Offal" (25 yuan/bowl) includes lamb blood and liver, served with "unleavened flatbread" (2 yuan/piece). Soak the flatbread in the soup to absorb the broth and warm your stomach.
3. Lamb Offal Soup: A Warm Relief in the Morning
The lamb offal soup (15 yuan/bowl) at "West Street Lamb Offal Soup" uses fresh lamb offal, simmered in lamb bone broth for 4 hours. The "Premium Lamb Offal" (25 yuan/bowl) includes lamb blood and lamb liver, served with "unleavened flatbread" (2 yuan/piece). The owner will remind you: "Add white pepper powder to your mutton offal soup; it's a secret of Chaoyang people."
4. Kazuo Aged Vinegar: A Sour and Fragrant Legend on the Dining Table
As the "Hometown of Chinese Aged Vinegar," Kazuo's "Lizhou Aged Vinegar" is made with 10-year-old aged vinegar (5 yuan/cup), served with "vinegar-soaked peanuts" (15 yuan/serving), offering a sour and fragrant flavor that cuts through the richness; it's also recommended to buy a bottle of "handmade aged vinegar" (20 yuan/bottle), which is great for stewing fish, mixing cold dishes, and enhancing the flavor—a "universal condiment" in Chaoyang kitchens.
4. Kazuo Aged Vinegar: A Sour and Fragrant Legend on the Dining Table
As the "Hometown of Chinese Aged Vinegar," Kazuo's "Lizhou Aged Vinegar" is made with 10-year-old aged vinegar, served with "vinegar-soaked peanuts" (15 yuan/serving), offering a sour and fragrant flavor that cuts through the richness; it's also recommended to buy a bottle of "handmade aged vinegar" (20 yuan/bottle), which is great for stewing fish, mixing cold dishes, and enhancing the flavor—it's a "universal condiment" in Chaoyang kitchens.
V. Three Days Two Nights Itinerary: In-depth Travel for 300 Yuan Per Person
1. Accommodation Recommendations
First Choice in the City: Chaoyang "Hongshan Hotel", standard room 180 yuan/night, 5-minute walk to the South Pagoda, some rooms offer night view of the ancient pagoda, suitable for family travel.
Preferred Scenic Spot: Daheishan "Forest Homestay", wooden cabins 150 yuan/night with mountain views from the window, the owner provides hiking poles and maps free of charge, suitable for nature lovers.
2. Consumption Tips
Tickets: Phoenix Mountain 50 yuan, Bird Fossil Park 80 yuan, students get half price with ID.
2. Consumption Tips
Tickets: Phoenix Mountain 50 yuan, Bird Fossil Park 80 yuan, students get half price with ID.
2. Consumption Tips
Tickets: Phoenix Mountain 50 yuan, Bird Fossil Park 80 yuan, students get half price with ID.
2. Consumption Tips
Tickets:
2. Consumption Tips: ... Dining: Regular meals cost 30-50 RMB per person, snacks 5-15 RMB per serving. It's recommended to find established restaurants on "Shuangta Street" and "Murong Street" to avoid the high-priced areas of the tourist attractions. Transportation: Take bus route 1 from Chaoyang Station to the city center (1 RMB). For surrounding attractions, it's recommended to drive yourself or join a day tour (including transportation and entrance fees, starting from 120 RMB). Mountain roads are narrow, so novice drivers should be cautious. A trip to Chaoyang is a double gift of time. The most unforgettable moments include seeing 120-million-year-old dinosaur footprints at the Bird Fossil Park, listening to the distant morning bells and evening drums at Phoenix Mountain, and experiencing the warmth and sincerity of the people of Chaoyang in the mutton soup stalls on the streets. Every fossil here tells a story of Earth, every ancient pagoda upholds the memory of history, and every dish carries a strong local flavor. We suggest you get up early to have a bowl of mutton offal soup on Shuangta Street, take a nap under the shade of the trees on Phoenix Mountain in the afternoon, and watch a shadow puppet show on Murong Street in the evening. Let the history and nature of Chaoyang become the most unique imprint of western Liaoning in your memory. This underrated treasure city is worth exploring on foot and feeling with your heart.
