IF you've ever wondered where to explore in China that entails going beyond the attractions in Beijing and Shanghai, Liaoning might just be your answer.
Recently, I ventured into this unique province, which sits at the crossroads of history and geography, bordering North Korea to the southeast and adjacent to other northeastern nations, such as Japan across the Yellow Sea. Domestically, Liaoning's strategic location places it at the heart of northeast China, bordered by Jilin province to the north and framed by Hebei and Inner Mongolia to the west.
Spanning over 148,000 square kilometres, Liaoning is roughly the size of Greece or half the size of Malaysia, offering an impressive blend of landscapes from coastal areas to mountain ranges. Due to the province's size, I was only able to explore two of its most significant cities — Shenyang and Dalian.
Shenyang, the provincial capital, is rich in history, and is home to the Shenyang Imperial Palace, a United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (Unesco) World Heritage site.
Meanwhile, Dalian, a bustling port city located along the province's southern coast, is known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant urban atmosphere. Both towns provide a window into Liaoning's blend of ancient tradition and modern development.
Although Liaoning covers a large area, it's conveniently accessible. Located about 700km from Beijing, high-speed trains can whisk you there in four to six hours, depending on your destination. Alternatively, a flight from Beijing to Shenyang takes just 1.5 hours, offering a quick and easy gateway to a province full of discovery.
DREAM SPACE WITH RICE
While Shenyang, the capital of Liaoning province, is well-known for its rich history and culture, the city has also emerged as a modern industrial powerhouse, particularly in the aerospace and automotive sectors.
Yet, Shenyang's appeal stretches far beyond its industrial achievements: it's also a leader in agricultural innovation, as showcased by the Dream Space with Rice, a 25-acre park with one of the largest rice padi art installations in the world.
Aptly named after the movie Inception, which literally translates as "space of rice dreams" in Chinese, Dream Space with Rice has become a must-visit attraction for tourists worldwide. Located in the Shenbei New District of Shenyang, this national 4A-level tourist attraction features a 27-metre-high sightseeing tower, offering stunning views of giant, colourful rice field paintings that come to life under the sunlight.
Beyond the impressive vistas, visitors can hop on a sightseeing train to explore the scenic rice fields, enjoy local Sibe cultural performances, and indulge in traditional food — all part of an immersive agricultural and artistic experience.
The intricate rice field art is no small feat. Rice farmers in the region meticulously plan these displays for months, using different rice species that grow in varying heights and colours. This allows them to create vast, 3D works of art ranging from animals to classic Chinese deities, that appear almost as if they were spray-painted onto the fields. Every year, new designs are crafted, ensuring tourists always have a good reason to visit Shenyang.
Rooted in the traditions of the Sibe people, who have long used rice padi art to pray for blessings, Dream Space with Rice has expanded this custom into a large-scale, unique theme park that celebrates both cultural heritage and modern artistry.
In fact, the park is listed in the Guinness Book of World Records as the largest rice padi art installation in the world, offering not only vast beauty but also a powerful symbol of innovation and tradition coexisting in harmony.
SHENYANG IMPERIAL PALACE
Despite the onset of modernisation, this big city is still home to the only existing royal palace in China outside of the Forbidden City in Beijing. Located at No. 171, Shenyang Road, Shenhe District in Shenyang City, this palace was the former residence of early Qing Dynasty emperors.
The main structure of the Shenyang Imperial Palace was built in 1625 when Nurhachi was in power. It was completed in 1636 by his son, Abahai (Huangtaiji). Nurhachi and Abahai were both founding emperors of the Qing Dynasty.
Covering an area of more than 60,000 square metres, this palace, which consists of more than 300 rooms, formed around 20 courtyards, is one-twelfth the size of the Forbidden City in Beijing.
The palace, known as Mukden Palace, served as the primary imperial residence of the Qing Dynasty until 1644, when the capital was moved to Beijing after the fall of the Ming Dynasty. This shift elevated the Forbidden City in Beijing to the status of the main imperial palace, but it didn't render Mukden Palace obsolete.
Instead, it became the imperial residence of the Qing's second capital from 1636 to 1912. Each year, emperors would return to Mukden Palace for extended stays, during which they honoured their ancestors and personally inspected the lives of their subjects.
In the 1920s, Mukden Palace was transformed into one of China's earliest museums. Initially named the Museum of Three Provinces of Northeast China, it was later rebranded as Mukden Palace Museum and ultimately became known as Shenyang Palace Museum. Despite its official name, many still refer to it as Mukden Palace or Mukden Imperial Palace.
Within its walls, the rich history of the early Qing Dynasty unfolds. Recognised as a Unesco World Cultural Heritage Site in 2004 as an extension of the Forbidden City, Mukden Palace is now the most popular and celebrated tourist attraction in Shenyang.
Surprisingly, Shenyang is also home to some of China's largest and oldest shopping districts. Along with the massive Wu'ai Market, visitors seeking great shopping and entertainment should take a stroll down Zhong Jie, located near Shenyang Imperial Palace.
Zhong Jie is China's longest pedestrian street and one of its oldest main commercial streets. Two of Shenyang's fashionable department stores, Xinglong Da Jiating and Shenyang Spring are located here.
BEAUTIFUL COASTAL CITY
Dalian, located on the southern tip of Liaoning province, is a stunning port city nestled between the Bohai Sea and the Yellow Sea. Its strategic location makes it a vital maritime hub in northeastern China, playing a significant role in international trade, particularly with neighbouring countries like Japan and South Korea.
As one of China's most important shipping and logistics centres, Dalian's importance extends beyond its bustling port, to its undeniable beauty and charm. The city's favourable climate, particularly during the cooler winter months, draws tourists who come not only for the weather but also for its natural and urban beauty.
Culturally, Dalian boasts a rich history influenced by both Russian and Japanese occupations, which is still visible today. These influences are reflected in the city's unique architecture and urban design, from European-style buildings to tree-lined streets and public squares. One of Dalian's iconic landmarks is Jinhai Square, also one of the largest public squares in Asia. It offers a scenic blend of modern architecture and open space.
Dalian is also renowned for its stunning beaches, such as Tiger Beach and Golden Pebble Beach, which are simply perfect for a relaxing seaside getaway. The city's clean environment and pleasant coastal climate make it a popular destination, particularly in the summer.
Beyond its scenic appeal, Dalian is famous for seafood and this is where you can enjoy some of the freshest catches in China. Seaside restaurants offer delicacies such as Dalian abalone, sea cucumbers, and a variety of shellfish, making the city a paradise for seafood lovers. With its blend of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and modern development, Dalian stands out as one of China's most captivating coastal cities.
A TASTE OF VENICE
Oriental Venice Water City in Dalian is a stunning homage to the charm and architecture of Venice, Italy, often referred to as the "Venice of the East".
As someone who has always dreamed of visiting Italy, I was delighted to discover this enchanting atmosphere right here in China. This European-inspired water city offers a unique and immersive experience, featuring picturesque canals and elegant architecture that transport visitors into a Venetian dream.
Nestled near Dalian Port, the water city boasts gondolas gliding through over 200 European-style castles, creating a magical ambiance that feels authentically Venetian. Visitors can embark on a gondola ride to meander through the scenic waterways, which are beautifully illuminated at night, enhancing the magical atmosphere. Highlights of the Oriental Venice Water City include intricately designed bridges that connect various areas, fostering a serene and picturesque setting that's perfect for family outings.
There are plenty of activities to enjoy, from cruising the canals in gondolas to exploring local art displays and festivals. Shopping enthusiasts will find charming boutiques and shops offering unique gifts, souvenirs, and local crafts. Additionally, numerous cafes and restaurants are scattered throughout the area, serving a diverse range of cuisines, allowing guests to savour delicious meals while soaking in the stunning surroundings.
COASTAL GEM
Golden Pebble Beach (Jinshitan), located on the Liaodong Peninsula and facing the Huanghai Sea, lies about 50km northeast of Dalian City. This stunning coastal area comprises two peninsulas with a spacious beach in between, covering a land area of 62sq km and a water surface area of 58sq km. With a coastline stretching 30km and surrounded by the sea, the beach offers breathtaking ocean views and is very tranquil.
Boasting an oceanic monsoon climate, Golden Pebble Beach enjoys mild temperatures year-round and has four distinct seasons. Its pristine environment, featuring fresh air, crystal-clear sea water, and expansive beaches that extend four kilometres along the coast, makes it one of China's top destinations for tourists, notably swimmers. The beach is also home to a marine sports centre, where various water sports and training activities take place.
In addition to its natural beauty, Golden Pebble Beach offers several attractions, including the Kung Fu Museum and the Kingdom of Discovery, a popular theme park in Dalian. Visitors will also find a variety of beachside shops and stalls, although these may close during inclement weather. The best way to reach Golden Pebble Beach from downtown Dalian is by taking the light rail, offering a convenient and scenic journey to this coastal gem.
From the imperial grandeur of Shenyang to the coastal allure of Dalian, Liaoning province offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether exploring the world's largest rice paddy art installations, strolling through the European-inspired streets of Dalian's Venice Water City, or basking on the pristine shores of Golden Pebble Beach, there's something here for everyone.
For those looking to venture beyond China's more well-known destinations, Liaoning promises both a glimpse into the nation's past and a taste of its future. As I left this remarkable province, I couldn't help but feel that I'd only scratched the surface of what Liaoning had to offer. It's truly northeastern China's hidden gem!
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