Yingkou: A Hidden Gem in Liaoning Province—Your Ultimate Guide to Food, Fun, and Exploration!

Hey everyone! I recently discovered an amazing city in Northeast China—Yingkou! With its beautiful coastline, rivers, abundant hot springs, incredibly fresh seafood, and affordable prices, Yingkou offers amazing value and is the perfect weekend getaway. Without further ado, let's dive into the ultimate guide!👇 I. Must-See Attractions Shanhai Square: The iconic landmark of Bayuquan District, Shanhai Square boasts stunning ocean views! Stroll along the seawall, take photos with the Bayu Princess statue, and ascend the Bohai Pearl Observation Tower for panoramic ocean vistas. Don't miss the breathtaking sunsets—a photographer's paradise with a 100% chance of capturing amazing shots! Liaoning Tuanshan National Marine Park: Nicknamed "Little Santorini," this park features awe-inspiring sea-eroded landscapes and uniquely shaped reefs, perfect for capturing stunning photos. Thrill-seekers will love the 79-meter-high Guanhai Bridge with its glass floor. In the summer, cool off with an exciting hovercraft drift. West Fort Park: This historical park offers free admission and overlooks the mouth of the Liao River. At sunset, the afterglow paints the ancient fort in a magical light, transporting you back to a time of epic history. A must-visit for history buffs! Liaohe Old Street: The birthplace of Yingkou, Liaohe Old Street is the oldest and best-preserved century-old street in Northeast China, steeped in history. The unique blend of Chinese and Western architecture provides a perfect backdrop for vintage-style photos. Explore numerous folk museums and enjoy the lively night market with its diverse array of snacks. Bird Wave Square: Yingkou is a crucial stop on the East Asian–Australasian Flyway, one of the world's eight major bird migration routes. Witness the spectacular "bird wave" phenomenon at Bird Wave Square. As the sun dips below the horizon, flocks of waterbirds dance with the tides, creating a truly unforgettable sight. Capture this stunning moment, but remember to observe the birds without disturbing them. II. Local Specialties Bayuquan Braised Fish with Cabbage: This signature Yingkou dish features tender bayuquan fish and sweet cabbage simmered in a flavorful broth. A warm and comforting dish that's a must-try! Gaizhou Xianbian: This local delicacy can be enjoyed with spring pancakes or mixed directly. Its unique texture and rich flavor will leave a lasting impression. Salted Mantis Shrimp: A treat for raw seafood lovers! The salt perfectly permeates the mantis shrimp meat, creating a unique savory flavor. However, those unaccustomed to raw seafood should proceed with caution. Jingangshan BBQ: This popular Yingkou barbecue restaurant serves freshly cut beef with exceptional dipping sauces. The slightly sweet sauces complement the meat perfectly, making everything delicious. Be prepared for a wait, as this place is always packed. Chunhua Seafood Restaurant: A must-visit seafood buffet in Yingkou. The saying "If you haven't eaten seafood at Chunhua, you haven't been to Bayuquan" speaks for itself! With a vast selection of fresh seafood, you can indulge to your heart's content. Different price points offer varying selections, catering to every budget. III. Accommodation Recommendations Beluga Seaview Hotel: With a prime location, the ocean-view rooms offer direct sea views, allowing you to witness breathtaking sunrises and sunsets from the comfort of your bed. The hotel also provides comprehensive amenities and attentive service. Yingkou International Hotel: Situated in the city center, this hotel offers convenient access to restaurants and shopping malls. With comfortable accommodations and excellent value, it's perfect for those seeking convenience. IV. Transportation Guide Train: Bayuquan Station (high-speed rail) and Xiongyuecheng Station (regular train) are conveniently located near major attractions like Shanhai Square. Car: Self-driving is a great option for those traveling from nearby cities, offering scenic views and flexibility. Local Transportation: Taxis have a starting fare of CNY 6. Ride-hailing services are also available. Some attractions are accessible by bus, but be sure to check the operating hours. V. Suggested Itinerary Day 1: West Fort Park → Minghu Square (sunset viewing) → Lengyan Temple → Liaohe Park → Liaohe Old Street (night market and food exploration) Day 2: Gaizhou Beihai Scenic Area (Tuanshan Marine Park, Beihai Temple, Haishi Tianjie Street, etc.) Day 3: Shanhai Square → Xianren Island Scenic Area (seashell digging)