A Three – day and Two – night Spring Self – driving Tour in Shenyang
Shenyang, once known as Shengjing, is a city full of history and charm. It’s not only an important central city in Northeast China and a major heavy – industry base but also a wonderful tourist destination and a paradise for food lovers. Let me take you on a three – day and two – night journey to explore this amazing city.
How to Get to Shenyang
There are various ways to reach Shenyang. If you’re coming from a long – distance city, taking a flight is the best option. Shenyang Taoxian Airport is about ten kilometers away from the city center. High – speed trains are also convenient, with Shenyang Station and Shenyang North Station located in the urban area. For those who prefer more freedom, self – driving is a great choice as most of the scenic spots are on the outskirts of the city.
Day 1: Unveiling the Stories of History
- Zhaoling Mausoleum: Originally the mausoleum of Emperor Taizong of the Qing Dynasty, Huang Taiji, and his empress, it now forms part of Beiling Park, the largest park in Shenyang. The Fangcheng, the main part of the mausoleum, follows the “front – court and back – bedroom” principle. It consists of three sections from south to north. The front section includes the下马 stele, the Zhenghongmen (the main gate), and some decorative structures like the Huabiao (ornamental columns), stone lions, and stone arches. The middle section features stone animal statues, a stele pavilion, and sacrifice rooms. The back section is composed of the Fangcheng, Yueya City, and Baocheng. In the park, ancient pine trees stand tall, the grass is lush, and the lake is rippling. In early spring, willows sprout new leaves, and peach blossoms bloom quietly. Many locals come here for a walk, a chat, or some dancing in the morning or evening.
- Shenyang Imperial Palace: As the early imperial city of the Qing Dynasty, although not as grand as the Forbidden City in Beijing, it has its own unique charm. It’s one of the only two existing imperial palace complexes in China and the only one outside the Shanhai Pass. The palace can be divided into three parts according to its layout and construction time. The eastern part includes the Dazheng Hall and the Ten Princes’ Pavilions built during Nurhaci’s reign. The middle part was extended during Huang Taiji’s time, including the Daqingmen, Chongzheng Hall, Fenghuang Tower, and several palaces. The western part, such as the Wensuge, was added during Emperor Qianlong’s period. The Fenghuang Tower is the highest building in the palace, from where you can overlook the whole city of Shengjing. The architectural style of the palace is unique, with red walls and tiles in yellow, green, and gray, looking like an ink – wash painting.
Day 2: Stepping into the Republic of China Era and Enjoying Nature
- Zhang’s Mansion: It was the official residence and private home of Zhang Zuolin, the last national head of the Beiyang Government and the leader of the Fengtian Clique, and his son, Zhang Xueliang, a great patriot. There are many legendary stories here, reflecting the vicissitudes of an era. The mansion is full of buildings and connected courtyards. You can see the exquisitely – decorated courtyard, the garden with pavilions and waterside terraces, the magnificent Dac青楼, the European – style Bianye Bank, and other buildings. The three – entrance courtyard, which was both Zhang Zuolin’s office and his family’s residence, is a brick – and – wood structure in the style of a royal mansion.
- Changbai Island Forest Park: It’s a beautiful place for a spring outing in Shenyang. There are blooming peach blossoms and gurgling streams. You can see elegant black swans strolling around, cute alpacas in a daze, and peacocks showing off their beautiful feathers. The park is located on the south bank of the Hunhe River, between Shengli Bridge and Gongnong Bridge. With a length of 2100 meters, there are wooden boardwalks along the river and hydrophilic platforms every few meters. It’s a popular place for fishing enthusiasts, fitness lovers, and outdoor sports enthusiasts.
- Shenyang Bird Island: It takes about forty minutes to drive from the urban area to the bird island. It’s the only natural ecological bird – watching center in Shenyang, located in the Qipanshan Development Zone. Historically, it was named “Longtan Fishing” because of its shape like a dragon lying in the water and was one of the eight scenic spots of Huishan. There are more than a hundred species of birds on the island, which vary according to the seasons. You can see different types of birds such as cranes, swans, peacocks, and eagles. Some birds like peacocks, swans, and seagulls will fly around the island in groups at regular times, creating a spectacular view. The ticket price varies between the peak season (from April 1st to October 31st, 30 yuan per ticket) and the off – season (from November 1st to March 31st of the next year, 15 yuan per ticket).
Day 3: Exploring More of Shenyang’s Attractions
- Shenyang National Fitness Outdoor Activity Base: This place offers a variety of unique leisure and tourism projects. You can experience the most professional karting arena in Shenyang, the only professional wind – tunnel base in the city, and the most characteristic outdoor container – style food square in Northeast China. There are also areas for cycling enthusiasts, rock – climbing sites, fun competition stadiums, RV camping sites, and large open – air parking lots.
- Shenyang Forest Zoo: Located in the Qipanshan Scenic Area, it’s a place where you can enjoy beautiful scenery and visit multiple attractions. You can see various animals such as Siberian tigers, African lions, zebras, giraffes, and even pandas. The zoo also provides free shows of sea lions’ behaviors (from May to October every year) and the flight shows of red – crowned cranes and demoiselle cranes. There are also many snack bars and more than 20 kinds of amusement facilities, making it a great place for a weekend outing.
- Guandong Film and Television City: It was the filming location of the TV series “New World”. The main attractions here are composed of more than a dozen film – shooting landscapes such as the city gate, Quanjude Restaurant, and Baylor Mansion. It’s an ancient – style building complex based on the cultural features of Northeast China in the early 20th century. It’s very suitable for taking photos in the style of the Republic of China era. There are shops that rent costumes and provide various props, allowing you to create a sense of a big – screen scene.
- Dongling Suburban Park: Also known as the back mountain of Fuling Mausoleum, it’s a place with fresh air and lush greenery. There’s a legend about a loyal dog saving Nurhaci. As you walk further, you can visit the Totem Cultural Square, Bao’en Temple, and the ancient city wall. It’s a perfect place for a spring outing.
- Mozishan Sports Park: At night, the park is surrounded by fluorescent lights, looking like an otherworldly place. It combines the natural scenery of mountains, water, and forests. The three mountains in the park have different heights and are well – arranged. The water flows along the mountains, making the landscape more vivid. There are also many unique sculptures in the park. The newly – built fluorescent running track adds a touch of mystery to the park and is likely to become a popular check – in place in summer.
The Delicious Food in Shenyang
- Ginseng Chicken Soup: It’s one of the favorite foods of Shenyang people, suitable for both summer and winter as a nourishing dish.
- Guobao Rou: A must – try dish in Shenyang. The traditional one has the perfect combination of sweet and sour flavors.
- Colorful Cold Noodles: You can find this dish in both star – rated hotels and time – honored restaurants. It can help relieve greasiness and whet your appetite.
- Dumplings: Especially the steamed dumplings in Shenyang, with a wide variety of fillings.
- Barbecue: Barbecue is a part of Northeast culture. Whether it’s cold winter or other seasons, people enjoy gathering around the grill, eating meat, drinking, and chatting.
As the trip comes to an end, looking at the twinkling lights and the bustling streets in Shenyang, you’ll surely feel a bit reluctant to leave. Shenyang has so much to offer, and your own story in this city is just about to begin.
Read More《福运盛京，春暖花开。三天两夜沈阳春季自由行攻略》
More
China Uncovered”A Southern Girl Heads North: Harbin + Mohe | A 9-Day Epic Story”
China Uncovered”In the Land of Jingchu, Hubei: Remember Our Past Promise”
China Uncovered”Shanxi · Datong: Encounter Ancient Architecture Through a Millennium of Time”
Latest
- Startup Commentary”OpenAI Coin: A New Type of Scam?”
- Startup Commentary”The Xiaomi Desk Setup Robot Priced at 199 Yuan: Its “Inner Qualities” Are by No Means Simple”
- Risk Compass”Aerial work in China”
- Risk Compass”High-end housekeeping in China”
- Risk Compass”Prestressed Concrete Cylinder Pipe (PCCP) Pipeline in China”
