Dalian is a coastal city on the Liaodong peninsula in Liaoning province. It is the largest port in this area of China and a very popular city for domestic tourists during the summer months especially.
Historically this city was the far end of the Transsiberian Railway and the principal port for the Russian Empire in the East. Although most of the city has been built in typical Chinese style there are still large parks, squares, fountains and sculptures built in a much more European fashion.
Dalian is easy to get to from Beijing but is significantly off the main route for most travellers who never venture into the Dongbei (Northeast) region at all.
Basic Travel Information
- Province – Liaoning
- Season to Visit – Any
- Route there – Train from Shenyang or Beijing. Flight from Beijing or major aiports
- Duration: at least 3 days
- Recommended: Yes as part of a trip to the Northeast
My Story
I landed in Dalian straight off a flight from Los Angeles and it was a massive shock. There was definitely a culture shock of being back in China after a few months away but I was honestly delighted to be back!
Mostly the shock was the cold! Even just getting off the plane was almost unbearable as I only had a jumper and the rest of my warm clothes were in my checked luggage!
Even once I’d layered up properly, -10°C was a hard thing to get used to after Central America, and a definite taste of what was to come in the Northeast.
I spent a beautiful day exploring the city and marvelling at the different style in between diving inside for warmth and food on a regular basis.
When I got to the beach area I was stunned to see that even at temperatures that low, there were people relaxing on the beach and swimming in the sea.
I’ve never been less tempted to go for a swim in my life!
Dalian was sadly not a city I managed explored in enough depth. I will need to return here as part of a wider trip to Dongbei in summer.
Logistics
There are two train stations. Both are accessible by metro but leave plenty of time.
- The slow speed trains arrive at the main station north of the centre.
- The high-speed trains use the new North station, which is a long way north of the city, not even on the peninsula.
The airport is close to the main station and has bus connections into the centre of Dalian
When to Visit
Winter in this region is intense. I would recommend coming to Dalian during other seasons. However if you are visiting the whole of the Northeast region then winter is definitely the best time. Pack thermals, gloves, wind protection and many layers.
Spring, Summer & Autumn: the weather will be nicer and your opportunities to explore Dalian and the wider province will be greater
Further Information
These websites were my favourite sources of general information for this location:
Last Updated: November 2019
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