Dalian, Pearl of Liaodong Peninsula
Dalian boasts numerous major tourist attractions, focusing on beaches and historical culture. Highlights include Jinshitan National Tourist Resort, featuring stunning coastlines and diverse recreational activities; Xinghai Square, one of China's largest urban squares, renowned for its dazzling night views; Laohutan Ocean Park, showcasing diverse marine life and exciting performances; and Bangchui Island, famous for its crystal-clear waters and beautiful beaches. Each of these attractions, with its unique charm, is a must-visit destination for tourists.
Dalian’s Main History
A Liaodong County during the Warring States, Dalian was built as “Dalny” by Russia in 1898, renamed by Japan in 1905, liberated in 1945, and opened as a coastal city in 1984. Today it is Northeast Asia’s international shipping hub.
Dalian’s Latitude & Longitude
City centre: 38°55′ N, 121°38′ E.
Municipal range: 38°43′ N–40°12′ N, 120°58′ E–123°31′ E.
Dalian’s Total Area
12,574 km² (urban core 2,415 km²).
Dalian’s Permanent Resident Population
≈ 7.45 million (end-2023).
Number & Names of Dalian Airports
2 airports: Dalian Zhoushuizi International Airport (DLC) and Dalian Jinzhou Bay International Airport (under construction, future second airport).
Number & Names of Dalian’s Main Railway Stations
4 principal stations: Dalian Railway Station, Dalian North, Jinzhou Station, Puwan Station.
When Dalian Opened Its Metro & How Many Lines Exist
First metro line opened 22 May 2015; as of June 2025, 5 lines are in operation (Lines 1, 2, 3, 5, 12).
Dalian’s Geographic Position in China
Southernmost Liaoning Province, at the confluence of the Bohai and Yellow seas, facing the Shandong Peninsula across the Bohai Strait—a key node in the Northeast Asian economic circle.
Dalian’s Geographic Features
Low hills of the Liaodong Peninsula; highest peak Mt. Dahei 663 m. A deeply indented coastline with bays, headlands and numerous islands.
Dalian’s Climate Characteristics
Warm-temperate, semi-humid, monsoon-influenced maritime climate: four distinct seasons, mild winters, cool summers, frequent fog.
Months of Dalian’s Four Seasons
Spring: March–May
Summer: June–August
Autumn: September–November
Winter: December–February
Dalian’s Annual Average Temperature
≈ 10.5 °C.
Dalian’s Annual Average Precipitation
≈ 658 mm.
Best Times to Visit Dalian
May–October; coastal weather is most pleasant from June to September.
Dalian’s Peak Tourist Seasons
July–August (summer escape + International Beer Festival), October National Day Golden Week, and May Day holiday.
Major Tourist Attractions
Xinghai Square, Tiger Beach Ocean Park, Jinshitan National Resort, Bangchui Island, Discovery Kingdom Theme Park, Russian Street, Lüshunkou (Port Arthur).
Main Shopping Streets & Locations
Qingniwaqiao Commercial Street (Qingniwaqiao, Zhongshan District) and Tianjin Street Pedestrian Mall (Tianjin Street, Zhongshan District).
Signature Dalian Specialties
Menzi (starch jelly stir-fry), salted-fish pancakes, seafood dumplings, grilled squid, seaweed buns, Dalian abalone.
Golden Pebble Beach Resort
As one of Dalian's iconic attractions, Golden Pebble Beach is known for its spectacular coastline, clear seawater, and rich geological features. Visitors can enjoy beautiful sandy beaches and unique rock formations, making it an ideal destination for leisure and relaxation.
Laohutan Ocean Park
Laohutan Ocean Park is a modern themed seaside amusement park that combines sightseeing, entertainment, science education, shopping, and culture. Visitors can observe various rare marine creatures, participate in interactive experiences, and immerse themselves in the joy of ocean culture.
Dalian Sun Asia Ocean World
Sun Asia Ocean World is one of China's most famous ocean theme parks, featuring Asia's longest underwater tunnel and the largest marine life exhibition hall. Visitors can closely observe rare marine animals such as white whales and dolphins, and enjoy captivating dolphin and diving performances.
Dalian Forest Zoo
Dalian Forest Zoo is one of China's largest forest zoos, home to various rare animals like giant pandas and golden monkeys. Visitors can observe these adorable animals closely, participate in interactive experiences, and experience the charm of nature.
Bangchui Island Scenic Area
Bangchui Island is a comprehensive scenic area that integrates mountains, seas, islands, and beaches, renowned for its clear seawater, beautiful sandy beaches, and lush forests. Visitors can fully enjoy the coastal scenery and participate in water activities for a pleasant vacation.
Xinghai Square
Xinghai Square is a landmark in Dalian, combining commemoration, culture, entertainment, and commerce. The central "Centennial City Sculpture" records Dalian's history and culture, while visitors can appreciate the beautiful Xinghai Bay and the spectacular view of Dalian Port.
Dalian Natural History Museum
The Dalian Natural History Museum displays the natural history and rare animals and plants of Dalian, serving as a comprehensive museum for science education, research, cultural exchange, and entertainment. Visitors can learn about Dalian's natural history and culture, enhance their knowledge, and broaden their horizons.
Yinggeshi Botanical Garden
Yinggeshi Botanical Garden is a natural ecological landscape park based on unique granite landforms, offering sightseeing, science education, and tourism. With a rich variety of plant species and beautiful garden landscapes, it's an excellent place for visitors to connect with nature and relax.
Donggang Business District
Donggang Business District is Dalian's emerging commercial area, featuring modern architecture and complete facilities. It's a concentration of high-end hotels, shopping centers, and business centers in Dalian, also a great place to enjoy sea views and city night scenes. Visitors can experience Dalian's modern urban atmosphere and prosperity.
Lushunkou Scenic Area
Lushunkou is an important historical and cultural heritage site in Dalian, home to many famous historical buildings and museums such as the Lushun Museum and Lushun Railway Station. Visitors can learn about China's modern history and Russian culture, experiencing the depth of history and the charm of culture.
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