Dalian Tourist Attractions and Sightseeing

(Dalian, Liaoning, China)



Picture of the coastlineDalian is often touted as one of the tourist gems in China's crown of progressive, prosperous and vibrant cities. Also known as the 'Hong Kong of the North', the city of Dalian is packed with world-class tourist attractions, hotels, restaurants and shopping centres, being nestled in and amongst the natural beauty of the mountains and the sea.

History meets cultural diversity in Dalian, offering a wealth of attractions to keep even the most well-travelled visitors busy. The city's premier tourist attractions are shown below.


Photo of beach and boats

Beaches

Dalian's coastal location makes it a major attraction for the Chinese, even though the beaches are rather rocky and at times, a little polluted. However, it is the sea breeze and ocean scenery that provide an important component to this city's allure. Binhai Lu, next to the coastline, offers superb views of the sea and is a popular spot for watching sunrises. Tiger Beach, Fujiazhuang Beach and Gold Pebble Beach are Dalian's nicest spots for swimming and lounging on the sand.
Open hours: daily - 24 hours
Admission: no charge

Bin Hai Road

Spanning the coast for more than 30 km / 19 miles, Bin Hai Road is the very centre of Dalian's beach activity and makes for a pleasant drive. Edging Dong Hai Park on the eastern side and Xing Hai Square to the west, the road winds past many scenic mountains, with stretches where you can enjoy the stunning coastline and sea views. Famous for its clean air and sea breezes, this is a great escape and provides access to numerous resorts, bathing areas and hotels
Open hours: daily - 24 hours
Admission: no charge

Sheng Dao Glassworks

Address: 2 Xi Nan Road, Dalian, Liaoning, China, CN
Tel: +86 411 8664 1922
This glass factory is renowned throughout China for its exquisite glassware in myriad colours. The display room showcases some of the samples that have been produced here, including a stunning glass engraving of the beauties from a classic Chinese novel, which took three famous artisans over 12 months to create. Visitors can see how these creations are made and purchase something to take back home.
Open hours: daily - 08:30 to 16:30
Admission: no charge

Shuolin Arts and Crafts Garden

Address: 1F Underground, Victory Square, Dalian, 21 116001, Liaoning, China, CN
This impressive marketplace sells an amazingly diverse selection of regional goods such as jade, interesting rare stones, and local arts and craftworks. In addition, visitors can find many offerings from neighbouring countries, including Japan, Tibet and South Korea, with some true treasures and other attractions awaiting. This is a great place to visit for a range gift ideas and some rather unusual souvenirs.
Open hours: daily
Admission: no charge

Sun Asia Ocean World

Address: West Binhai Road, Dalian, 21, Liaoning, China, CN
Tel: +86 411 8468 5136
Many would say this aquatic theme park pales in comparison to its rival, Tiger Beach Ocean Park, but Dalian's Sun Asia Ocean World does has enough redeeming features to warrant a visit. A new polar aquarium, which was recently added, and the longest underwater aquarium tunnel in the world, are amongst the main attractions here. You can even call in advance to arrange an English-speaking guide to elaborate on how many of these sea creatures are regularly eaten by the Chinese.
Open hours: daily - 09:00 to 16:00
Admission: charge

Tiger Beach Ocean Park

Address: 3 Tiger Beach Street, Zhongshan, Dalian, 21 116003, Liaoning, China, CN
Tel: +86 411 8239 9398
You may have a different opinion, but the locals love the tacky cartoon signs, dancing clowns and silly performances that combine to make this theme park such a popular attraction. The comprehensive aquarium, wild bird park and polar bear habitat are definitely worth a look, and even the really cheesy parts will eventually wear you down and force out a chuckle or two. On the other side of the Tiger Beach Ocean Park and away from its huge tiger sculpture, Dalian's coastal road offers views of the rugged cliffs and shoreline.
Open hours: daily - 07:30 to 17:40
Admission: charge

Tropical Rainforest Hall

Address: Inside Dalian Forest Zoo, Dalian, 21, Liaoning, China, CN
Visitors are attracted to this greenhouse by its flying saucer shape. The expansive Tropical Rainforest Hall covers around 2.5 acres / 1 hectare and offers a look at an enormous collection of plants. The high observation deck allows tourists a good view of the tropical greenery, while manmade waterfalls, bridges, rock gardens and other attractions have also been added. There is even a desert landscape to appreciate, with cacti bigger than some people.
Open hours: daily
Admission: charge

Xiangshui Temple

Address: East of Mount Dahei, Jinzhou, Dalian, 21 1160, Liaoning, China, CN
Tel: +86 411 764 7565
A popular stop-off for visitors to the city, Xiangshui Temple was named after its echoing water. Spring water flows from a 40-meter / 130-foot cave making loud splashing noises as it hits the stone. Built in the Tang Dynasty (618 AD - 907 AD), this Taoist temple is a popular site for religious celebrations.
Open hours: daily - 08:30 to 17:00
Admission: no charge