Liaoning · Dalian | Must-Visit Tourist Attractions and Food Guide!

👍Recommended Reasons: 🌊 Dalian, the "Northern Pearl" nestled on the shores of the Yellow and Bohai Seas, perfectly blends the vastness of the ocean, echoes of history, and modern vitality. The dazzling lights of Xinghai Bay, the winding magnificence of Binhai Road, and the clanging of century-old trams together compose a symphony of mountains and sea. Here, every wave leaps with energy, every old building tells a story, and every bite of seafood bursts with the freshness of 39° north latitude. 📅 Must-Visit Attractions: 🌲【Dalian Forest Park】The city's green lung, where mountains meet the sea. Hike through the forest oxygen bar, climb to the Lotus Mountain viewing platform for a 360° panoramic view of Xinghai Bay Bridge and the cityscape, and experience the unique charm of "half forest, half sea." 🐬【Laohutan Ocean Park】The pioneer of polar ocean aquariums in China. Explore the dreamy Coral Pavilion and the joyful Polar Pavilion, watch spectacular performances by belugas and dolphins, walk through the underwater tunnel, and dance with thousands of marine creatures. 🪨【Shengxiang Tianmen】A mysterious wonder hidden in the rhythm of the sea. Hike along the coastal boardwalk and encounter the natural sea-eroded cave gate at specific tide times, framed by blue sea and sky, capturing a breathtaking picture-perfect moment. 🛶【Venice Water City】A waterfront romance with exotic charm. Gondola boats glide among European-style buildings, coffee aromas waft along the canals, and when the lights come on, it feels like being in the Italian water city, beautifully surreal. 🏖️【Jinshitan】A geological marvel and golden coastline. Marvel at billion-year-old sea-eroded stones like "Dinosaur Exploring the Sea" and "Beethoven's Head," stroll along the ten-mile golden sandy beach, and enjoy thrilling water sports or a leisurely sunbath. ⚓️【Fisherman’s Wharf】An artistic and retro harbor vibe. Docked fishing boats, colorful European-style cottages, a lighthouse, and the Cat Sky Bookstore fill the air with the scent of coffee and sea breeze, making it a perfect spot for photography and daydreaming. 🏝️【Bangchuidao Island】Home to the state guesthouse, a tranquil garden embraced by mountains and sea. Crystal-clear waters, pebble beaches, and lush gardens exude noble elegance, making it an ideal place to relax and enjoy the pure sea breeze. 🐧【Sun Asia Ocean World】A romantic underwater tunnel journey. Walk through the 118-meter-long "underwater tunnel," with sharks and sea turtles swimming overhead, and enjoy the beautiful and touching performances of "Dolphin Bay Romance" and "Beluga Legend." 🏰【Lüshunkou Scenic Area】A living fossil of modern history. Climb Baiyu Mountain for a panoramic view of Lüshun Naval Port, visit the former Russo-Japanese Prison Site and Lüshun Museum, and touch the vicissitudes and depth of "half a modern history." 🎬【Chuangguandong Film Studio】A century-old cinematic scroll. Stroll through the restored Shandong Courtyard, old streets, and shops, immersing yourself in the bustling life of the Chuangguandong era. Many film and TV dramas were shot here, full of nostalgia. 📅 Travel Guide: 🎯 Day 1: Coastal Charm & Ocean Adventure - 🌞 Morning: Stroll around 【Xinghai Square】 feeding seagulls → view Xinghai Bay Bridge from afar → climb to the Lotus Mountain viewing platform at 【Dalian Forest Park】 - 🍲 Lunch: Taste authentic Dalian seafood (e.g., restaurants near Xinghai Square) - 🌳 Afternoon: Enjoy 【Sun Asia Ocean World】 watching marine life and performances - 🌃 Evening: Visit 【Fisherman’s Wharf】 to watch the sunset and browse artistic shops - 🍽 Dinner: Seafood stalls or specialty restaurants at Fisherman’s Wharf 🎯 Day 2: Historical Echoes & Mountain-Sea Wonders - 🍞 Breakfast: A bowl of Dalian specialty red bean clam noodles - 🌞 Morning: Head to 【Lüshunkou Scenic Area】 climb Baiyu Mountain → visit Lüshun Museum / Russo-Japanese Prison Site (closed on Mondays) - 🍲 Lunch: Local farmhouse dishes or seafood in Lüshun - 🌳 Afternoon: Hike the eastern section of 【Binhai Road】 → explore 【Shengxiang Tianmen】 (check tides!) → visit the state guesthouse area on 【Bangchuidao Island】 - 🌃 Evening: Night tour of 【Venice Water City】 ride a gondola and enjoy the light show - 🍽 Dinner: Restaurants near Donggang Music Fountain Square 🎯 Day 3: Geological Exploration & Time Travel - 🌞 Morning: Visit 【Jinshitan】 National Tourism Resort → tour Jinshitan Geological Park (core area) - 🍲 Lunch: Seafood stalls at Jinshitan - 🌳 Afternoon: Enjoy 【Jinshitan Golden Coast】 or choose Discovery Kingdom theme park (if time and interest allow) → visit 【Chuangguandong Film Studio】 on the way back - 🌇 Evening: Return to the city for free activities (optional shopping at Qingniwaqiao commercial area) 🏨 Accommodation Guide: 🛏 Recommended Areas: * City Center (Zhongshan Square / Qingniwaqiao): Transportation hub, bustling commercial area, convenient subway, ideal for first-time visitors. * Around Xinghai Square / Sun Asia: Many sea view rooms, close to the sea, square, and some attractions, beautiful night views. * Donggang / Venice Water City area: Emerging district with a modern vibe, near the water city and music fountain, comfortable environment. * Jinshitan Resort Area: Suitable for in-depth exploration of Jinshitan or Discovery Kingdom, enjoy a resort atmosphere, mostly resort hotels. ⭐ Unique Stays: Castle hotels (distinctive exteriors), characteristic seaside homestays, hotels converted from historic buildings (e.g., Dalian Hotel). 💗 Other Tips: 1. 🚇 The subway covers major urban areas, but attractions are far apart; for areas like Binhai Road, taxis, chartered cars, or tourist buses are recommended. The city still operates century-old trams (routes 201/202), worth experiencing. 2. 🦐 Confirm seafood prices (market price) before ordering; it’s best to dine at popular, clearly priced restaurants. Early markets (like Taoyuan Market) offer a glimpse of local life and fresh fruit shopping. 3. 🧥 Dalian has distinct seasons; summers are cool and pleasant but with significant temperature differences between day and night, so bring a jacket; winters are windy and cold, so dress warmly. Sun protection (especially by the sea) is important. 4. 🌊 For 【Shengxiang Tianmen】, check the tide schedule in advance (best 2 hours before and after low tide), prioritize safety, and watch out for slippery rocks. 5. 🎫 Some 【Lüshunkou】 attractions (like the Russo-Japanese Prison Site and main Lüshun Museum) are closed on Mondays, so plan accordingly. The Baiyu Mountain cable car is optional. 6. 🏖️ Swim safely, pay attention to beach opening hours and warning flags. Jinshitan’s sand is coarser. 7. 📸 Binhai Road (especially the Yanwoling and Beidaqiao sections) is a photography paradise, perfect for hiking or cycling (on some sections).