Dalian Travel Guide: A Diverse Experience Tour Connecting Mountains and Seas

Dalian, a city that combines romantic coastal style with multicultural charm, has rich natural landscapes, theme parks and cultural experiences, suitable for tourists with different needs. The following is an in-depth travel guide carefully compiled for you, covering must-see attractions, special experiences and practical tips. 1. Must-see core attractions: the fusion of nature and humanity 1. Xinghai Square: the heart of the city and a romantic landmark As the largest city square in Asia, Xinghai Square is the soul of Dalian. During the day, you can stroll through the century-old city sculptures and feel the city's changes over the past century; at night, the lights are bright and the musical fountains dance to the melody, like a dream. The surrounding area is connected to Shengya Ocean World (one ticket for all five venues, the 118-meter underwater tunnel, and beluga and dolphin shows are not to be missed) and Xinghai Park Bathing Beach, making it suitable for parent-child swimming. The adjacent Shell Museum houses more than 10,000 rare shells and is a paradise for ocean lovers. 📍Address: No. 634, Zhongshan Road, Shahekou District 🚇Transportation: Metro Line 1 "Xinghai Square Station" 2. Dalian Forest Zoo: A wild paradise that coexists with nature It covers an area of ​​7.2 square kilometers and is divided into captive areas and free-range areas, with more than 200 rare animals. The Panda House, Golden Monkey House, and Tiger Hill are popular check-in spots, and the free-range area allows close observation of sika deer, zebras and other animals living freely. It is recommended to take the park train (20 yuan/person) or hike around, and overlook the panoramic view of the city from the Lotus Mountain Observation Deck, which is particularly magnificent at sunset. ⏰Opening hours: 09:00-16:00 (admission stops at 15:00) 📍Address: No. 60 Yingchun Road, Xigang District 🎫Tickets: 120 yuan (including the panda pavilion, more preferential parent-child tickets) 3. Jinshitan Resort: billion-year-old geological wonders and a sea of ​​joy • Binhai National Geopark: Sea erosion landforms formed over 300-900 million years, lifelike rocks such as "Dinosaurs Exploring the Sea" and "Beethoven's Head", and you can feel the wonders of nature by hiking along the coastline. • Haichang Discovery Kingdom: Eight themed areas, 40+ rides, exciting rides like the "Crazy Cobra" roller coaster, warm rides like the "Carousel", and night parades and fireworks shows that light up the fairy tale world. • Gold Coast: The sand is fine and suitable for surfing and camping. In summer, you can experience water skiing, parasailing and other activities. 🚇Transportation: Take Metro Line 3 to Jinshitan Station. It is recommended to drive or use an electric car in the scenic area. 4. Laohutan Ocean Park: Immersive Ocean Adventure The six major venues each have their own characteristics: the Polar Pavilion, where you can watch penguins strolling and beluga whale interactive performances; the Coral Pavilion, where you can enjoy a dreamy underwater tunnel; and the Sea Animal Pavilion, where you can observe seals up close on the transparent plank road. The outdoor coastal trail connects Bangchui Island. When you go to the island, you can visit the historic Bangchui Island Hotel, stroll along the pebble beach, and feel the tranquility of the mountains and sea. 📍Address: No. 9 Binhai Middle Road, Zhongshan District 2. Featured theme experience: meeting diverse needs Parent-child study tour • Sun Asia Ocean World: Five major venues are linked together, performances such as "Love in Dolphin Bay" and "Legend of Moby Dick" are both entertaining and educational, and the Dinosaur Legend Hall 4D Cinema provides an immersive experience of the prehistoric world. • Jinshitan Museum of Life Mysteries: Uncovering the history of biological evolution; real specimens and interactive devices stimulate children’s desire to explore. • Dalian Natural History Museum (Heishijiao Park): open to the public free of charge, with rich geological and biological specimens, suitable for science enlightenment. Artistic check-in and historical walk • Donggang Haichang Oriental Water City: European-style buildings and a 4-kilometer canal complement each other. Take a gondola ride, and enjoy the bright lights like Venice at night. It is adjacent to the Music Fountain Square and you can feel the romantic atmosphere. • Lushun Historic District: Taiyanggou Cherry Blossom Avenue (spring only), Soviet Victory Tower, old building complex, combined with the Submarine Museum and Phonograph Museum, tracing a century of history. • Russian Style Street & Nanshan Road: A blend of exotic architecture and Japanese style, with a concentration of internet-famous coffee shops and cultural and creative stores, suitable for a slow-paced City Walk. Seaside vacation and natural healing • Bangchui Island: Surrounded by mountains on three sides and facing the sea on one side, the beach has fine sand. You can hike on the island, overlook the panoramic view of the bay, and experience the tranquility of a "state guesthouse". • Hiking along the coastal road: From Yanwoling to Beidaqiao, you will be surrounded by mountains and seas along the way. Bathing beaches such as Fujiazhuang and Yinshatan are dotted in between, making it suitable for cycling or jogging. 3. Itinerary planning suggestions 3-day classic line: • Day 1: Xinghai Square → Sun Asia Ocean World → Forest Zoo (overnight in the city) • Day 2: Jinshitan Geopark → Discovery Kingdom (stay overnight at Jinshitan) • Day 3: Laohutan Ocean Park → Bangchui Island → Donggang Oriental Water City (night view of fountain) 5-day depth line: Add a one-day tour of Lushun history (Taiyanggou, Baiyu Mountain, Submarine Museum) and an island tour of Changhai County (Dachangshan Island, Guanglu Island, and experience fishermen's life). 4. Practical Tips 1. Transportation: The subway covers a wide range of urban attractions. It is recommended to drive or take a tourist bus to Jinshitan and Lushun. The Dalian Ring Bus "One Ticket" connects 25 attractions and is cost-effective. 2. Seasonal tips: ◦ April-May: Cherry blossoms and locust trees are in full bloom in Lushun, and the weather is pleasant. ◦ June-August: Beaches are open, please be aware of sun protection and avoid the peak weekend crowds. ◦ September-October: The seafood is delicious and the autumn colors of Jinshi Beach and Bangchui Island are charming. 3. Dining recommendations: ◦ Seafood: Xiding Sea Urchin Dumplings (Donggang Branch), Pinhailou (Laohutan Branch), steamed Bohai shrimp and scallion oil snail slices are recommended. ◦ Specialties: Dalian traditional restaurant (home-cooked fish stew, seaweed dumplings), street fried skewers (sweet and spicy, private collection of locals). 4. Pitfall avoidance guide: ◦ The prices of food and beverages in the scenic area are relatively high. You can bring your own snacks or choose affordable restaurants nearby. ◦ During holidays, popular tourist attractions have large crowds. It is recommended to avoid peak travel times and book tickets in advance. Dalian is a city where you can enjoy the sound of waves and find tranquility in the bustling city. Whether you are traveling with your family, on a date, or exploring alone, this place can present you with a unique story of mountains and seas. Pack your bags and go on a romantic date with Dalian!