Shenyang Slow Living Guide: A Healing Journey to Changbai Island Forest Park

Looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and unlock a "relaxing stay + nature stroll" mode in Shenyang? Save this hidden gem route in Yuhong District 📝. Make the Howard Johnson Riz Hotel your "urban healing station," explore Changbai Island Forest Park, breathe fresh air, feed swans, watch the sunset, and let all the fatigue of work life melt away! The Howard Johnson Riz Hotel strikes the perfect balance between convenience and tranquility. It's just a 5-minute walk to Jilihu Street Station on Metro Line 9, where you can transfer to Line 4 and reach Changbai Island Station. From there, it's a 10-minute walk to the park, taking a total of 40 minutes without the hassle of rush hour crowds. For those driving, the hotel offers over 100 free parking spaces, including charging stations. A 25-minute drive via Nanjing South Street will take you directly to the park's parking lot. Before you head out, the front desk will provide a "park strolling map," clearly marking niche spots like swan feeding points and the ginkgo trail—it's like receiving a "healing code" ✨. The comfort of the hotel ensures that the healing begins the moment you check in! Opened in 2021, the facilities are brand new, and the fully intelligent room controls are perfect for lazy travelers: just say "open the curtains," and sunlight will flood the room through floor-to-ceiling windows. The soft latex mattress paired with feather pillows feels like sinking into a cloud, instantly washing away the fatigue of overtime work ☁️. The bathroom is refreshingly designed with separate wet and dry areas, featuring a smart toilet, high-pressure shower, and citrus-scented toiletries. Some room types even have scenic bathtubs, allowing you to soak while enjoying the city view—pure bliss. The best part? Breakfast is served until 11 a.m., so you can sleep in and still enjoy local delicacies like chicken soup noodles and Shenyang-style chicken ribs, paired with freshly brewed coffee and fruit salad. A full stomach gives you the energy to embrace nature 🍳. The 24-hour gym and self-service laundry room are also essential—after a tiring park stroll, you can hit the gym or wash and dry your clothes, freeing up your hands completely. Once you're refreshed, head straight to Shenyang's "urban green lung"—Changbai Island Forest Park! This free-to-enter expansive green space is a hidden gem within the city, offering swans, ginkgo trees, river views, and lawns. Every snapshot here is a healing masterpiece. Here's your ultimate guide to exploring the park 👇: - Swan Interaction Tips: The Swan Lake at the park's west gate is a must-visit! Bring some bread slices (pre-torn into small pieces) and gently offer them by the lakeside. Black and white swans will gracefully swim over to feed. For the best "human and swan" photos, wear light-colored clothing. The soft afternoon light at 3 p.m. makes the swans' feathers glow beautifully 🦢. - Ginkgo Trail Stroll: The ginkgo avenue in the park's central area turns golden in late autumn, with fallen leaves forming a "golden carpet" that rustles underfoot. Choose a sturdy ginkgo tree, stand beneath it for a side-profile shot, and let the sunlight filter through the leaves for maximum ambiance. In spring, this area is a sea of cherry blossoms; in summer, it's shaded by lush greenery—each season offers its unique charm 🍂. - Hun River Viewing Platform: Walk along the wooden boardwalk to the riverside viewing platform for a panoramic view of the winding Hun River. The architectural skyline on the opposite bank complements the natural scenery. Around 6 p.m., the sunset paints the river orange. Feel the river breeze and watch the sunset, letting all your worries drift away. Bring a picnic mat to sit on the lawn and wait for the evening glow 🌇. - Hidden Healing Gems: Deep within the park, there's a "pet-friendly zone" where you can see playful dogs; a children's play area with swings and slides ensures families with kids have a great time. Occasionally, street performers play guitar, creating a relaxing vibe as you sit on a bench, listen to music, and watch passersby. This is the essence of slow living. After a day of exploring, head to the nearby "Changbai MixC" mall to recharge. The mall is packed with trendy restaurants—be sure to try the Northeastern dish "Guo Bao Rou" (sweet and sour pork), which is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Returning in the evening is super convenient, with the metro taking you directly back to the hotel. Grab a bubble tea from the Wanda Plaza downstairs, sip it while organizing your photos in your room, and feel completely rejuvenated. Stay at the right healing hotel, explore the city's green oasis, and discover the slow life and little joys of Shenyang—all hidden in this route! Next time you need a break, come back to the Howard Johnson Riz Hotel!