Liaoning 辽宁

Dandong, Liaoning Province

Dandong, Liaoning Province By Prince Roy. Sourced via Flickr under Creative Commons Attribution License.

Liáoníng Province (辽宁省 Liáoníng Shěng) is a province in the North East of China. It borders Inner Mongolia autonomous region 内蒙古 (Nèi Měnggǔ) in the north, Jílín province 吉林 to the east, the country of North Korea to the South East and Hébĕi province to the west. The southern edge of Liáoníng forms a peninsula which points south with the Yellow Sea on the west and Bohai Sea to the east. The north of the province is part of the Gobi Desert. The east and central spine are mountainous. In contrast the Western half of the province consists of large flat fertile plains.

Historically Liáoníng was part of Manchuria and populated by the Manchu ethnic group. At the end of 19th Century, a large amount of immigration form other areas of China to Liáoníng resulted in the Han ethnic group becoming dominant. During first half of the 20th Century, Liáoníng came under Russian and then Japanese influence. It was in Liáoníng that the Mukden Incident occurred that is considered to mark the start of the Japan-China war. Under Japanese control, the region became part of the puppet state of Manchukuo. Post world war II, Liáoníng plaid a significant part in the conflict between the PLA and the Kuomintang.

The Japanese had used Liáoníng as a industrial base. After the war, the Chinese, with Russian support, expanded on this. Liáoníng became famous for it's heavy industry. Today, these industries are still very important to the region, for example the iron and steel production in Anshan and Benxi as well as ship building in Dalian and aircraft and car manufacturing in Shenyang

Tourist Attractions

The worlds oldest feathered dinosaur fossils, Sinosauropteryx were found in Yixian. These, along with many other Lower Cretaceous fossils including early flowers, pollinating insects, mammals, marsupials and a host of other finds have been highly significant to modern paleontology. There is a museum in Yixian where you can view many of the discoveries.

Shenyang, the largest city in Liaoning, was once the capital of Manchuria and subsequently the capital of China during the early Qing dynasty. The Imperial Palace has been preserved and is now a museum and popular tourist attraction. Though it lacks the scale of the Forbidden City in Beijing, the palace is architecturally and historical interesting. It listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site along with it's Beijing counterpart. Shenyang also contains three royal tombs from the Qing dynasty which are also listed, combined combined with other tombs of the Ming and Qing periods in Beijing, as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Qian Shan (千山) mountain in Anshan is a renowned scenic area. The site is unusual in containing both Buddhist monasteries and nunneries along side Taoist monasteries. A large avery is also located within the park. Near to Qian Shan, in the city of Anshan, there is a Buddhist temple containing the worlds largest Jade statue of Buddha made form a single piece of jade, 7.95 meters tall and weighing 260.76 tons.

The largest water filled cave in Asia is located near the city of Běnxī. Visitors may cruise through the cave system on small boats viewing the stalagmites and other rock formations that are illuminated by various coloured lights.

The city of Dàlián on the southern tip of Liáoníng is a popular tourist destination. The city has many beautiful beaches and cruses can be taken to nearby islands. The area is famed for its seafood. Other attractions include three zoological parks: Dalian Forest Zoo, Shengya Ocean World Aquarium, and Polar World.

The western extreme of the Great Wall of China is in Liaoning. There are sections of the wall in Liaoning, were only identified as part of the Great Wall of China in 1992. Some sections have been opened to tourists near the cities of Hushan, Jiumenkou and Xigou. These offer an opportunity for people to explore the Great Wall in a raw unrestored state, while avoiding the crowds that flock to the sections near Beijing.

  • Wanfutang Grottoes - Fuxin or Jinzhou
  • Dabaijiashan - Huludao or Jinzhou
  • Guangji Temple - Jinzhou
  • Mt Yiwulu National Park - Fuxin
  • Tayingzi Ancient City - Fuxin or Shenyang
  • Mt Longshou - Tieling
  • Tieshashan - Benxi
  • Yongling - Fushun
  • Ruins of Gaoli City - Yingkou
  • Yongfeng Pagoda - Dalian
  • Ice Valley - Dalian
  • Fairy Cave - Dalian

Below is a list of tourist attractions in Liaoning:

Shenyang Gardening Exhibition Park by niqodemus. Sourced via Flickr.

(沈阳市植物园; shěnyángshì zhíwùyuán): Shuangyuan Road, Dongling District, Shenyang, Liaoning, China. 大东区. Located 18km east of the north train station, about 5 km further east than Dongling Park. Phone: +86 24 24782000. This is the site of the 2006 International Horticultural Exposition. This tourist attraction is rates as AAAAA on China's national tourism scale.

 by Michael Saechang. Sourced via Flickr.

(大连老虎滩海洋公园.海洋极地馆; Dàlián Lǎohǔ Tān Hǎi Yáng Gōng Yuán. Hǎi yáng jí dì guǎn): 9 Binhai Middle Road Zhongshan, Dalian, Liaoning, China. Phone: +86 411 82893000. Tiger Beach is the biggest tourist attraction in Dalian. It is a sea life and aquarium centre. Inside you can get close up to fish, polar bears, penguins and other sea animals. This is a great day out for both young and old. This tourist attraction is rates as AAAAA on China's national tourism scale.

(义县奉国寺; yì xiàn fèng guó sì): East Street, Yixian County. This temple was bult circa 1020. The main building of the temple complex is named Daxiong Palace and it is the largest single layer wood architectural building of ancient China. This tourist attraction is rates as AAAA on China's national tourism scale.

(丹东凤凰山国家风景名胜区; dāndōng fènghuáng shān guójiā fēngjǐngmíngshèng qū): This tourist attraction is rates as AAAA on China's national tourism scale.

(抚顺赫图阿拉城; fǔshùn Hè Tú ālā chéng): The remains of the first capital city of the Manchu Qing Dynasty. This tourist attraction is rates as AAAA on China's national tourism scale.

(大连市自然博物馆; dàliánshì zìrán bówùguǎn): 40 Xicun Street, Dalian, Liaoning, China 辽宁省大连市沙河口区黑石礁西村街40号. In the southwest of the city. On the coast, just south of Xinhai Park. Phone: +86 411-84661108. Dalian Museum of Natural History is a large high quality museum. The large display shows all kinds of wildlife, past and present, that was native to Liaoning, however, as you would expect in Dalian, it focuses most strongly on sea life. This tourist attraction is rates as AAAA on China's national tourism scale. Open 9am to 4:30pm. Closed Mondays. Free entry but you must show your ID or passport at the door.

(沈阳科学宫; shěnyáng kēxué gōng): This tourist attraction is rates as AAAA on China's national tourism scale.

(沈阳怪坡风景区; shěnyáng guài pō fēngjǐngqū): This tourist attraction is rates as AAAA on China's national tourism scale.

(宽甸天桥沟国家级森林公园; kuāndiàn tiānqiáo gōu guójiājí sēnlín gōngyuán): This tourist attraction is rates as AAAA on China's national tourism scale.

Zhang Xueliang's building by water mark. Sourced via Flickr.

(沈阳张氏帅府博物馆; Shěnyáng Zhāng Shìshuài Fǔ Bówùguǎn): South Shuaifu Lane, Shenhe District, Shenyang, Liaoning, China. 辽宁省沈阳市沈河区朝阳街少帅府巷46号. Located just a short walk south from the Imperial Palace Museum. Phone: +86 24 24842113. This was the home of Zhang Zuolin and his son Zhang Xueliang during the end years of the Qing dynasty and the beginning of the Republic. Zhang became, with the fall of the Qing Emperor, the warlord in control of the northeast of China and for a short time was proclaimed president of China. This tourist attraction is rates as AAAA on China's national tourism scale.

(宽甸天华山风景名胜区; kuāndiàn tiān 华shān fēngjǐngmíngshèng qū): This tourist attraction is rates as AAAA on China's national tourism scale.

(沈阳冰川动物乐园; shěnyáng bīngchuān dòngwù lèyuán): This tourist attraction is rates as AAAA on China's national tourism scale.

(大连圣亚海洋世界; dàlián shèng yà hǎiyáng shìjiè): This tourist attraction is rates as AAAA on China's national tourism scale.

(新宾猴石国家森林公园; Xīnbīn hóu shí guójiā sēnlín gōngyuán): Xinbin County, Fushun, Liaoning, China. This tourist attraction is rates as AAAA on China's national tourism scale.

(旅顺白玉山景区; lǚshùn báiyù shān jǐngqū): This tourist attraction is rates as AAAA on China's national tourism scale.

(沈阳新民三农博览园; shěnyáng xīnmín sānnóng bólǎn yuán): This tourist attraction is rates as AAAA on China's national tourism scale.

(大连世界和平公园; dàlián shìjièhépíng gōngyuán): This tourist attraction is rates as AAAA on China's national tourism scale.

(铁岭清河省级旅游度假区; tiělǐng qīnghé shěngjí lǚyóu dùjià qū): This tourist attraction is rates as AAAA on China's national tourism scale.

<a href="http://www.abookaboutchina.com/location/Imperial-Palace-Shenyang" rel="nofollow">Shenyang Imperial Palace</a> (also known as Mukden Palace) in the North East of China, is not as well known as the larger 'Forbidden City' Palace of Beijing. However, Shenyang's Palace is every bit Beijing's equal in beauty and historical interest. The UNESCO lists Shenyang's Imperial Palace along side Beijing's. Construction on the Palace in Shenyang started in 1625 by the command of Emperor Taizu Nuerhachi of the Late Jin dynasty who ruled the North East of modern China — an area known to history as Manchuria. When the Manchu people eventually conquered Ming dynasty China to form the Qing dynasty, and moved their capital to Beijing, they maintained the Palace in Shenyang as a second capital. The Qing Emperors would frequently visit Shenyang and stay in the Palace there while paying homage to their ancestors who's tombs lie nearby.

For more info see my website, <a href="http://www.abookaboutchina.com" rel="nofollow">www.abookaboutchina.com</a> pages about <a href="http://www.abookaboutchina.com/cityguide/Shenyang" rel="nofollow">Shenyang City</a> and <a href="http://www.abookaboutchina.com/travelguide/Liaoning" rel="nofollow">Liaoning Province</a> in China. by Derek Harkness. Sourced via Flickr.

(沈阳故宫博物馆; Shěnyáng Gùgōng Bówùguǎn): Shenyang Lu, Shenhe District. The former Imperial Palace. It was first built in 1625 for the Manchu Emperor Nurhachi. It was inherited by his son and then grandson, who became Emperor of China. The Former Imperial Palace of Shenyang continued to be used by the Imperial family until the early 20th Century. The palace shows the distinctive ethnic Manchu architectural style. This tourist attraction is listed as a UNESCO World Herritage Site. This tourist attraction is rates as AAAA on China's national tourism scale. Entry is 60 RMB.

(锦州辽沈战役纪念馆; jǐnzhōu liáoshěnzhànyì jìniànguǎn): This tourist attraction is rates as AAAA on China's national tourism scale.

(辽宁省博物馆; Liáoníng Shěng Bówùguǎn): 26 Shiwei Road, Shenhe district, Shenyang, Liaoyang, China. 辽宁省沈阳市沈河区市府大路363号. On the east side of Shifu Square beside the Liaoning Theatre. Phone: +86 24 22821903, 22741193. A high-quality museum featuring many relics of China's past found mainly found in Liaoning. Also large collections of Chinese traditional art and calligraphy. There may be queues to enter during main public holidays. This tourist attraction is rates as AAAA on China's national tourism scale. Closes at 4pm. Entry is Free.

(兴城古城; xīngchéng gǔchéng): This tourist attraction is rates as AAAA on China's national tourism scale.

(丹东五龙山风景区; dāndōng wǔ lóngshān fēngjǐngqū): This tourist attraction is rates as AAAA on China's national tourism scale.

Benxi (本溪) is a prefecture city in the Liaoning province, China. Benxi is south-southeast of Shenyang city. The population is about 1,567,000 people. Benxi was founded as a metallurgical center in 1915. Benxi Iron and Steel Company (Bengang) is the largest employer in the city. The second largest industry in Benxi is coal mining. In the past, Benxi had major pollution problems due to steel production and coal mining. Over the last 10 years, the city has done much to clean up the area and is now known for it's clean environment and countryside.

The countryside surrounding Benxi has beautiful mountains, lakes, rivers and limestone cliffs around Guanmenshan Forest where the trees acers turn bright red in Autumn. The Benxi Water Cave National Park, the &quot;longest underground water tunnel in Asia&quot; is a major tourist attraction in the area. It was formed 5 million years ago. Visitors can enjoy boating the length of the cave. The cave is so vast its entrance harbors an underground wharf, docking up to 40 guide boats. The boats silently drift through the illuminated cave revealing a weird world of stalagmites, stalactites, and bizarre rock formations. Guides accompany each boat.

More information about <a href="http://www.abookaboutchina.com/cityguide/Benxi" rel="nofollow">Benxi</a> city can be found at my website <a href="http://www.abookaboutchina.com/cityguide/Benxi" rel="nofollow">www.abookaboutchina.com/cityguide/Benxi</a> by Derek Harkness. Sourced via Flickr.

(本溪关门山水库风景区; Běnxī Guānménshān Shuǐkù Fēngjǐng Qū): Benxi Manchu Autonomous District, Benxi, Liaoning, China. 辽宁省本溪市本溪满族自治县观音阁水库路. Located about east 48km from Benxi city centre and 24 km from Benxi Water Caves. Guanmenshan Reservoir is a large man made lake in Benxi Manchu Autonomous District of Benxi City. Here tourists can take boat trips around part of the lake and view the mountain scenery. Best visited in autumn when the leaves are turning. This tourist attraction is rates as AAAA on China's national tourism scale.

For more info see my website, <a href="http://www.abookaboutchina.com" rel="nofollow">www.abookaboutchina.com</a> pages about <a href="http://www.abookaboutchina.com/cityguide/Anshan" rel="nofollow">Anshan City</a> and <a href="http://www.abookaboutchina.com/travelguide/Liaoning" rel="nofollow">Liaoning Province</a> in China. by Derek Harkness. Sourced via Flickr.

(鞍山玉佛苑; ānshān Yùfó Yuàn): Qianshan Dong Lu, Teidong District, Anshan, Laioning, China. Located to the rear of 219 park. No.8 bus goes past here. Claiming to be the worlds largest Jade statue of the Buddha and carved form the worlds largest single piece of Jade stone, at almost 8 meters high and weighing in at 260.76 tons, this is an impressive sight. The statue is housed within a large temple complex in the Dongshan section of 219 park. This tourist attraction is rates as AAAA on China's national tourism scale.

Memorial to the War to Resist US Aggression and Aid Korea (Korea War). Situated on a small hill in Dandong overlooking the Yalu river which is the border with North Korea.

For more info see my website, <a href="http://www.abookaboutchina.com" rel="nofollow">www.abookaboutchina.com</a> pages about <a href="http://www.abookaboutchina.com/cityguide/Dandong" rel="nofollow">Dandong City</a> and <a href="http://www.abookaboutchina.com/travelguide/Liaoning" rel="nofollow">Liaoning Province</a> in China. by Derek Harkness. Sourced via Flickr.

(丹东抗美援朝纪念馆; dāndōng kàngměiyuáncháo jìniànguǎn): In 1950, China went to the aid of North Korea in fighting against the UN forces that occupied South Korea. The city of Dandong, situated on the border with North Korea, is the site of China's national memorial to the soldiers of this war. The Korean War Memorial sits at the top of a small hill, overlooking the city and the Yalu river with views across into Korea. The memorial contains an extensive museum which tells the story of the war from the Chinese perspective. This tourist attraction is rates as AAAA on China's national tourism scale.

(清原红河峡谷漂流; qīngyuán hónghé xiágǔ piāoliú): The Honghe River rafting is located north of Fushun city in Liaoning province. Here visitors can raft down the river though unspoilt scenery. Most of the river is calm and only about 1m deep, though some sections are a little fast, with some white water. This provides for an exciting day out. This tourist attraction is rates as AAAA on China's national tourism scale.

(大连冰峪省级旅游度假区; dàlián bīng yù shěngjí lǚyóu dùjià qū): This tourist attraction is rates as AAAA on China's national tourism scale.

For more info see my website, <a href="http://www.abookaboutchina.com" rel="nofollow">www.abookaboutchina.com</a> pages about <a href="http://www.abookaboutchina.com/cityguide/Shenyang" rel="nofollow">Shenyang City</a> and <a href="http://www.abookaboutchina.com/travelguide/Liaoning" rel="nofollow">Liaoning Province</a> in China. by Derek Harkness. Sourced via Flickr.

(沈阳航空博物馆; Shěnyáng Hángkōng Bówùguǎn): Lingdong Jie, Huanggu District, Shenyang, Laioning, China. At the northeast corner of Beiling park next to Beiling Airport. Phone: +86 24 86599602. Beiling airport is the site where China produced it's first modern jet aircraft in the early 1950's. These were initially copies of Soviet Mig fighters but gradually Chinese designs developed. In the front of the museum grounds stand nine aircraft produced on this site which can be closely inspected. Inside the museum building are displays telling the history of the airport and aircraft factory as well as Chinese aviation. A strong focus is placed on comparing Chinese and American aircraft, in particular those involved in the Korean War of the 50's. They also tell the history of Chinese missile development and other technologies. Civilian aircraft were also produced here and feature in the exhibits. The tour finishes with the modern J-11 fighter, China's new passenger aircraft (ACAC ARJ21 Xiangfeng or Flying Phoenix) and the recent Chinese space flights. This tourist attraction is rates as AAAA on China's national tourism scale. Every day from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM. Entry fee is 25 RMB.

(兴城海滨国家风景名胜区; xīngchéng hǎibīn guójiā fēngjǐngmíngshèng qū): This tourist attraction is rates as AAAA on China's national tourism scale.

(盘锦苇海鼎翔旅游度假区; pán jǐn wěi hǎi dìng xiáng lǚyóu dùjià qū): About 20km by road form Dawa town, 60km south of Panjin city. Panjin Weihai Ding Xianghai Park is a small bird zoo and natural wildlife park. It is located on the same road as the famous Red Beach Nature Reserve. This wildlife park is set deep in amongst the reeds that cover the area. Walkways allow tourists to roam out into the reed beds and perhaps catch a glimpse of some of the rare birds that have these reeds as their habitat. A caged area of the park allows visitors to get close up to the birds and possibly even feed some of them. This tourist attraction is rates as AAAA on China's national tourism scale.

(锦州北普陀山风景名胜区; jǐnzhōu běi pǔtuó shān fēngjǐngmíngshèng qū): This tourist attraction is rates as AAAA on China's national tourism scale.

 by Haiming LI. Sourced via Flickr.

(沈阳棋盘山国际风景旅游开发区; shěnyáng qípán shān guójì fēngjǐng lǚyóu kāifāqū): 辽宁省沈阳市沈河区市府大路363号. This national forest park consists of three hills and a lake. It borders on the Garden Expo site. Qipanshan ski centre is located here and the park is home for the annual Shenyang International Ice & Snow Festival. This tourist attraction is rates as AAAA on China's national tourism scale.

Qianshan National Park (千山国家公园) is a mountainous national park in Liaoning Province, China, near to the city of Anshan.

The park is referred to as 'The Northeast Pearl'. The name &quot;Qianshan&quot; literally means 'Thousand mountains'. This is actually an abbreviation of the full name, Thousand Lotus Flower Mountains (simplified Chinese: 千朵莲花山; pinyin: qiān duǒ liánhuā shān). According to legend, a long time ago the four corners of the sky collapsed. The Goddess Nüwa wanted to save the people living below so she patched up the sky with stones. One stone was accidentally dropped to the ground where is splashed, throwing the earth into thousands of peaks in the shape of a lotus blossom. Thus Nüwa created Qianshan. The park area of 44 square kilometres, is filled with both Buddhist and Taoist temples, monasteries and nunneries. Here is one of few locations where both religions are found sharing the same site. Among the peaks, a naturally wrought statue of the Buddha stands 70 meters high. It is claimed to be largest naturally occurring image of Maitreya Buddha in the world.

The area has a long history of religious worship dating back to the Tang dynasty of China. The site was enhanced during both Ming and Qing dynasties. The revolutions of the twentieth century saw the site abandoned and some buildings damaged. The park has since be restored and expanded with new Pagoda and temples for the Maitreya Buddha.

At its highest point, Qianshan reaches an elevation of 708.3 metres. The park is densely wooded with 95% of the area covered by forests. Over ten thousand of the pine trees have been estimated to be older than 100 years in age. Rare flora and fauna are found here along with a large number of plants used in traditional Chinese medicines. Over a hundred different species of birds can be observed in the park including the rare black-headed stork.

Please visit my website for more information about <a href="http://www.abookaboutchina.com/location/Qianshan-National-Park" rel="nofollow">Qianshan</a> and other locations in China. <a href="http://www.abookaboutchina.com/location/Qianshan-National-Park" rel="nofollow">www.abookaboutchina.com/location/Qianshan-National-Park</a> by Derek Harkness. Sourced via Flickr.

(鞍山千山风景名胜区; ānshān Qiānshān Fēngjǐng Míngshèng Qū): Qianshan District, Anshan, Laioning, China. About 19km from Anshan City cenre. Take No.8 bus. Phone: +86-0412-5410231 or 5412000. Qianshan literally means 'thousand mountains' and that is the impression you get as you look up at the jagged peaks. The name is actually and abbreviation of 'thousand lotus flower mountains'. The peaks were said to resemble the petals of the lotus flower which had been dropped to earth by a goddess. The area is filled with many Buddhist and Taoist temples and monasteris and nunneries. It is one of few locations where both religions are found sharing the same site. Three cable car routes can convey the less able up the hill sides. However, none of the cable cars will take you the whole way, leaving you some climbing to do by yourself. This tourist attraction is rates as AAAA on China's national tourism scale. 80 RMB per person. Some attractions and temples within the park may have additional fees.

(大连森林动物园; dàlián sēnlín dòngwùyuán): This tourist attraction is rates as AAAA on China's national tourism scale.

(大连现代博物馆; dàlián xiàndài bówùguǎn): This tourist attraction is rates as AAAA on China's national tourism scale.

(沈阳绿岛旅游度假区; shěnyáng lǜ dǎo lǚyóu dùjià qū): This tourist attraction is rates as AAAA on China's national tourism scale.

(大连虎滩乐园; dàlián hǔ tān lèyuán): This tourist attraction is rates as AAAA on China's national tourism scale.

(锦州笔架山风景区; jǐnzhōu bǐjià shān fēngjǐngqū): This tourist attraction is rates as AAAA on China's national tourism scale.

(旅顺东鸡冠山景区; lǚshùn dōng jīguān shān jǐngqū): This tourist attraction is rates as AAAA on China's national tourism scale.

(大连金石滩国家旅游度假区; dàlián Jīn Shítān guójiā lǚyóu dùjià qū): This tourist attraction is rates as AAAA on China's national tourism scale.

(锦州市博物馆; jǐnzhōushì bówùguǎn): This tourist attraction is rates as AAAA on China's national tourism scale.

 by Lucy Janes. Sourced via Flickr.

(沈阳"九·一八"历史博物馆; Shěnyáng "Jiǔ - Yī Bà" Lìshǐ Bówùguǎn): 46 Wnaghu Nan Street, Dadong District, Shenyang, Liaoning, China. 辽宁省沈阳市大东区望花南街46号. Located a few km north of the North Train Station, beside the railway tracks. Many buses pass this site including No. 163, 212, 253, 298, 299, 325 and 328. Phone: +86 24 88320918. On September 18, 1932, at 10:30pm, a bomb exploded beside the Japanese run railway line near Shenyang. Though instigated by the Japanese, the Chinese were blamed for event giving the Japanese an excuse to invade and occupy the whole of the northeast of China. Shenyang was the epicenter of that invasion, so it is most appropriate that the museum for the 9.18 Incident, as it is known, is in Shenyang next to the spot where the explosion occurred. The museum, as one would expect, depicts the incident from a Chinese perspective. It is not for the feint of heart because it unflinchingly displays the atrocities of war. The educational value of the experience is diminished by the lack of English signs and explanations. This tourist attraction is rates as AAAA on China's national tourism scale. Opening times in summer 8:30-17:00 (Last entry at 16:00) Winter 9:00-16:30 (Last entry at 15:30). Closed on Monday. Free of charge but you <b>must</b> take and ID card or passport with you.

(兴城龙湾海滨风景区; xīngchéng Lóng Wān hǎibīn fēngjǐngqū): This tourist attraction is rates as AAAA on China's national tourism scale.

The Red Beach in Panjin city, in the north east of China, is noted for it's unique wildlife habitats. Tall beads of reid are found all along the shore front. This makes the area perfect for birds of many types. At the shore front, the mud flats are covered with a red coloured plan that is particular to this area. The plan gives the beach the name by which it has become famous. During the summer months a great many types of birds can be seen on the mud flats feeding and nesting.

My visit to Panjin was late in October. Most of the birds had left; migrating south for the winter. Also the cold weather had seen off the last of the bright red colour of the beach, making for more of a orange shade. The area remains interesting even then. by Derek Harkness. Sourced via Flickr.

(盘锦红海滩风景区; Pánjǐn Hónghǎitān Fēngjǐng Qū): Dawa, Panjin, Liaoning, China. About 65km by road, south of Panjin City and 20km west of the town of Dawa. Phone: +86 427-6881651. Panjin's Red Beach is famous for its special wildlife. Many rare types of birds can be found in this area, living among the reed beds that front the shoreline. The mud flats are also major bird feeding areas. A special type of red seaweed is found here that gives the area a deep red colour, hence the name. Most of the Red Beach is a nature reserve and closed to the public. Only a small, remote, section is open for tourists. This tourist attraction is rates as AAAA on China's national tourism scale. Entry is upwards of 150 RMB per person. Discounts are available for groups booking via travel agents.

Dandong, China, viewed from the Broken Friendship Bridge in Dandong, China.

For more info see my website, <a href="http://www.abookaboutchina.com" rel="nofollow">www.abookaboutchina.com</a> pages about <a href="http://www.abookaboutchina.com/cityguide/Dandong" rel="nofollow">Dandong City</a> and <a href="http://www.abookaboutchina.com/travelguide/Liaoning" rel="nofollow">Liaoning Province</a> in China. by Derek Harkness. Sourced via Flickr.

(丹东鸭绿江国家风景名胜区; Dāndōng Yālùjiāng Guójiā Fēngjǐng Míngshèng Qū): 辽宁省丹东市. Situated along the southeast border of the prefecture and through Dandong city centre. Phone: +86 415 3124767. The Yalu river flows from the Changbaishan Mountains down to the yellow sea and for much of it's length forms the border between China and North Korea. It is an area of great natural beauty and a key tourist attraction in Dandong. One of the best ways to see the river is from one of the many cruise ships that tour along its length. This tourist attraction is rates as AAAA on China's national tourism scale.

This is the Eastern most section of the great wall. Across the river is N. Korea by Robert Maddock. Sourced via Flickr.

(丹东虎山长城; Dāndōng Hŭshān Chángchéng): Kuandian County, Dandong, Liaoning, China. 辽宁省丹东市宽甸县虎山乡的虎山南麓. About 15km norhteast of Dandong city centre. Phone: +86 415 2150510. This is the far eastern end of the Great Wall of China. Long forgotten, it is only recently that this section of wall has be re-identified. A section of this wall, dating from the Ming dynasty, has been restored for tourists to visit. It starts right beside the border with North Korea and climbs over Wushan (Tiger Mountain) giving you wide vistas of the surrounding country side including views across the border into Korea. The wall continues down the other side of the mountain before coming to an end. This tourist attraction is rates as AAAA on China's national tourism scale. Entry costs 40 RMB.

(本溪关门山国家森林公园; Běnxī Guānménshān Guó Jiā Sēn Lín Gōng Yuán): 本溪县山城子关门山. Located about east 48km from Benxi city centre and 24 km from Benxi Water Caves. Phone: +86 414 6358066. The two peaks of this mountain face each other like the posts on a Chinese gate (men) giving this mountain it's name. The site contains paths leading through the steep sided mountain peaks with beautiful scenery and many different plants and animals all around you. This tourist attraction is rates as AAAA on China's national tourism scale. Tickets cost 30 RMB per person.

emple has covered an area of about 90,000 square meters. It has 200 alters for worship and is the largest place for the Buddhist activities in northeast China. 

Liaoyang (辽阳; Liáoyáng) is a city in Liaoning Province in China. This is an ancient city with a long history going back over 2400 years. Liaoyang had been the major city of Liaodong (eastern Liaoning) province since the Waring States Period (475-221 BC). When Nurhachi united the Manchurian tribes and founded the Late Jin Dynasty, Nurhachi moved his capital to Liaoning. An imperial palace was built there in 1621. The new capital was renamed Dongjing (East Capital). The city measured 900m east to west and 840m north to south. The city wall was 11 metres high with two gates on either side. However, this palace was barely completed when Nurhachi moved his court yet again to the city of Shenyang in 1625. Nowadays, little remains of the old palace but some walls and gates are visible. In 1904, Battle of Liaoyang was fought as one of the major battles of the Russo-Japanese War. After the end of the second world war and the Chinese civil war, Liaoyang became a centre for heavy industrial development. It is somewhat overshadowed by the now larger neighbours of Shenyang and Anshan but remains one of the key cities of Liaoning province.

For more information about Liaoyang city in Liaoning, China, please visit my website: <a href="http://www.abookaboutchina.com/cityguide/Liaoyang" rel="nofollow">www.abookaboutchina.com/cityguide/Liaoyang</a> by Derek Harkness. Sourced via Flickr.

(辽阳市广佑寺景区; liáoyáng shì guǎng yòu sì jǐngqū): Zhonghua Road, Liaoyang, Liaoning, China. 中华大街一段. Next to the Baida Pagoda, a short walk from the train station. Phone: +86 419 2126429. Founded in 1145 during the Eastern Han Dynasty, this is one of the oldest Buddhist sites in China. In the year 1161, the site received favour of the Emperor and was expanded. In the early 1900's, the army of the old Tsarist Russia burned the site as a responce to the Boxer Rebeilions. It has since been restored. This temple complex covers some 60,000 square metres of which 20,000 square metres is covered with buildings. Various statues of Buddha and Boddhisatvas are found throughout the many temple buildings. Within the central building lies a huge statue of Sakyamuni Buddha made of camphor wood and gilded with gold. It is the largest, by volume, statue of Sakyamuni Buddha in camphor wood in the world and stands some 21.48 meters high. The temples have a government rating as an AAAA national-level tourist area. This tourist attraction is rates as AAAA on China's national tourism scale. Entry is free.

Infamous statue of Lei Feng leading a group of children. Chinese people sometime queue to get their picture taken in front of this spot.

Leifeng Memorial Hall (雷锋纪念馆; Léifēng Jìniànguǎn) is located in Fushun city of Liaoning province in China. Originally built as a museum in 1964, the building was converted to the Lei Feng Memorial Hall in 1992. The park mimics in minature, the royal tombs. It is beautifully set out. Inside the hall are modern, well presented displays in both English and Chinese. Lei Feng was born in Fushun and became famous throughout the country. His life is seen as an example of how every Chinese person should conduct themselves. The memorial hall contains an exhibit which tells the story of Lei Feng's life and works. Here you can see some of his personal belongings, photographs, and his own writings. This site is an AAAA rated tourist attraction on China's national scale. Entry to the museum is free.

For more information about this and other tourist attractions in Fushun city, China, please visit my website: <a href="http://www.abookaboutchina.com/cityguide/Fushun" rel="nofollow">www.abookaboutchina.com/cityguide/Fushun</a> by Derek Harkness. Sourced via Flickr.

(抚顺雷锋纪念馆; fǔshùn léifēng jìniànguǎn): 61 Huping Lu, Wanghua District, Fushun City, Liaoning, China. 抚顺市望花区和平路东段61号电话. In the west end of Fushun city near most bus routes. Phone: +86 413 6658818. Leifeng Memorial Hall (雷锋纪念馆; Léifēng Jìniànguǎn) commemorates the life of a peasant soldier, Lei Feng, who though dies young, was used as an example of the ideal citizen for Chinese propaganda. The park mimics in miniature, the royal tombs. It is beautifully set out. Inside the hall are modern, well presented displays in both English and Chinese. These show some of Leifeng's belongings and photographs telling his life story. This tourist attraction is rates as AAAA on China's national tourism scale. Open daily 8:30am-4:30pm. Enrty is free of charge.

I'm afraid the photos aren't that good, and as you can see the lighting in the cave was VERY cheesy! by Paul Hickman. Sourced via Flickr.

(本溪水洞风景名胜区; Benxi Shuidong Fēngjǐng Míng Shèng Qū): Wei Village, Benxi County, Benxi, Liaoning, China. 本溪市本溪县谢家崴子村. About 30km east of Benxi City. Phone: +86 414 4891198. Glide by boat through Asia's largest water filled cave. This underground river takes you past beautiful rock formations carefully illuminated to highlight their features. This tourist attraction is rates as AAAA on China's national tourism scale. Entrance is 180 RMB per person. Large discounts are available via local tourist agents.

(桓仁五女山风景区; huánrén wǔ nǚ shān fēngjǐng qū): Huanren Lui village, Huanren Manchu Autonomous County, Benxi, Liaoning, China. 桓仁县桓仁镇刘家沟村. Phone: +86 414 8914168. Located in the northern part of Huaren County and it is in the western bank of Gunjiang River, covers an area of 1500 meters long from the east to the west and 300 meters wide from the south to the north. Its highest peak is 824 meters high. This tourist attraction is listed as a UNESCO World Herritage Site. This tourist attraction is rates as AAAA on China's national tourism scale.

 by Prince Roy. Sourced via Flickr.

(昭陵; Zhāolíng): Beiling Jie, Huanggu District, Shenyang, Liaoning, China. 郊泰山路12号. In the center of Beiling Park, about 1 km from the South entrance of the Park. Phone: +86 24 86910461. This is the tomb of the Qing emperor, Huang Taiji, and his consorts. It was built over a period of eight years during the early 17th century. The buildings are currently covered with scaffolding as renovation work is undertaken. The site is a unique blend of traditional Manchu and Chinese architecture. The area is listed, along with the other imperial tombs of the Ming and Qing dynasty, as a UNESCO world heritage site and a AAAA rated tourist site on the Chinese national scale. It is one of only 3 imperial tombs north of the great wall of China. Around the tomb is set out the extensive lands of Beiling Park which includes large areas of forest and several lakes. This tourist attraction is listed as a UNESCO World Herritage Site. This tourist attraction is rates as AAAA on China's national tourism scale. 30 RMB in addition to the park fee of 8 RMB.

On Chinese National Day, there is a ceremony to honer the Emperor re-enactment at Dongling tomb in Shenyang city, China.

For more info see my website, <a href="http://www.abookaboutchina.com" rel="nofollow">www.abookaboutchina.com</a> pages about <a href="http://www.abookaboutchina.com/cityguide/Shenyang" rel="nofollow">Shenyang City</a> and <a href="http://www.abookaboutchina.com/travelguide/Liaoning" rel="nofollow">Liaoning Province</a> in China. by Derek Harkness. Sourced via Flickr.

(福陵; Fúlíng): Dongling Lu, Dongling District, Shenyang, Liaoning, China. 辽宁省沈阳市东陵区东陵路210号. About 13km east of the north train station within Dongling Park. Phone: +86 24 88031748. This is the first tomb of the Qing Dynasty in which Nuerhachi, the founder of the dynasty, is laid to rest. It dates to the early 17th century and is constructed in traditional Manchu style along lines of Chinese funshui. The area is listed, along with the other imperial tombs of the Ming and Qing dynasty, as a UNESCO world heritage site and a AAAA rated tourist site on the Chinese national scale. It is one of only 3 imperial tombs north of the great wall of China. To the east of the tomb site a large area of park land forms Dongling Park. This tourist attraction is listed as a UNESCO World Herritage Site. This tourist attraction is rates as AAAA on China's national tourism scale. Entry to the tomb and park costs 30RMB.

(关门山; Běnxī Guānménshān): Located about east 48km from Benxi city centre and 24 km from Benxi Water Caves. Explore the natural history, ecology, plants and fauna of an undisturbed part of Northeast China. An opportunity to get close to nature. This tourist attraction is rates as AAAA on China's national tourism scale.

(大连广播电视塔; dà lián yăn bō diàn shì tă): This tourist attraction is rates as AAA on China's national tourism scale.

(沈阳仙子湖风景旅游度假区; shĕn yáng xiān zĭ hú fēng jĭng lǚ yóu dù jiă qū): This tourist attraction is rates as AAA on China's national tourism scale.

For more info see my website, <a href="http://www.abookaboutchina.com" rel="nofollow">www.abookaboutchina.com</a> pages about <a href="http://www.abookaboutchina.com/cityguide/Shenyang" rel="nofollow">Shenyang City</a> and <a href="http://www.abookaboutchina.com/travelguide/Liaoning" rel="nofollow">Liaoning Province</a> in China. by Derek Harkness. Sourced via Flickr.

(沈阳新乐遗址博物馆; Shĕnyáng Xīnlè Yízhĭ Bówùguăn): 1号 Longshan Road, Huanggu district, Shenyang, Liaoning, China. Just off of Huanghenan Da Jie on the west side of Beiling park. Phone: +86 024 86809440. On this location were found the remains of a 7000 year old, stone age, village. A museum now houses the archeological finds and the village has been reconstructed. The site is in two sections. The ticket office is on the north side of the road. You will then be directed across to the museum on the south side to view the display before returning to the north side again to enter the reconstruction area. Displays are labeled in both Chinese and English. This tourist attraction is rates as AAA on China's national tourism scale.

(丹东大鹿岛; dān dōng dà lù dăo): This tourist attraction is rates as AAA on China's national tourism scale.

(丹东大孤山风景名胜区; dān dōng dà gū shān fēng jĭng míng shèng qū): This tourist attraction is rates as AAA on China's national tourism scale.

(大连女子骑警基地; dà lián nǚ zĭ qí jĭng jī dì): This tourist attraction is rates as AAA on China's national tourism scale.

(抚顺市元帅林; fŭ shùn shì yuán shuài lín): This tourist attraction is rates as AAA on China's national tourism scale.

(宽甸黄椅山森林公园; kuān diàn huáng yĭ shān sēn lín gōng yuán): This tourist attraction is rates as AAA on China's national tourism scale.

(葫芦岛龙湾海滨滑雪场; hú lú dăo lóng wān hăi bīn huá xuĕ cháng): This tourist attraction is rates as AAA on China's national tourism scale.

(葫芦岛绥中九门口长城; hú lú dăo suī zhōng jiŭ mén kŏu cháng chéng): Lijia Township of Suizhong County, Huludao. Dating to 1381, in the Ming Dynasty, this section of the Great Wall was of high strategic imporance. It was known as "The First Pass in Jingdong". It is here that the wall crosses the Juijian River. This makes for a unique site on the Great wall as the stone arches step out over the hundred plus metres of water. Along with other sections of the Great Wall, this is a UNESCO World Heritage site. This tourist attraction is rates as AAA on China's national tourism scale.

(铁岭市博物馆; tiĕ líng shì bó wù guăn): This tourist attraction is rates as AAA on China's national tourism scale.

(铁岭市周恩来纪念馆; tiĕ líng shì zhōu ēn lái jì niàn guăn): This tourist attraction is rates as AAA on China's national tourism scale.

(阜新海棠山; fù xīn hăi táng shān): This tourist attraction is rates as AAA on China's national tourism scale.

(兴城菊花岛旅游风景区; xìng chéng jú huā dăo lǚ yóu fēng jĭng qū): This tourist attraction is rates as AAA on China's national tourism scale.

(锦州凌河公园; jĭn zhōu líng hé gōng yuán): This tourist attraction is rates as AAA on China's national tourism scale.

(抚顺萨尔浒风景名胜区; Fŭshùn Sàĕr Hŭ Fēng Jĭngmíng Shèng Qū): Dongzhou district 抚顺东郊的萨尔浒风景区. Souteast side of Dahuofang resevoir. This park of 268 square kilometres surrounds Dahuofang Reservoir which is itself 110 square kilometres and the largest man made lake in Liaoning. It was in these surroundings that the Nuzhen tribes first settled before going on to united the Manchu and become the Qing rules of China. The mountains were the scene of Sar Hu Battle in 1619 between the fledgling Manchu kingdom and the mighty Ming Dynasty of China. The Ming sent a 480,000 strong army to crush the Manchurians, but were defeated by the superior tactics of the Manchu arm which numbered no more than 70,000. This is a AAA rated tourist site on the National Chinese scale. This tourist attraction is rates as AAA on China's national tourism scale. 8:30am-5pm daily.

(抚顺战犯管理所旧址陈列馆; fŭ shùn zhàn fàn guăn lĭ suŏ jiù zhĭ chén liè guăn): Xinfu District, Fushun, Liaoning, China. 新抚区宁远街高尔山下. This is on the north edge of the city. Take No.9 bus form Fushun South Station or a short taxi ride. Phone: +86 413 7684346. It was here that the last emperor, Puyi, along with other Japanese and Kuomintang war criminals, were detained after the end of World War II. The site is now open for tourists to view. The galleries show the transformation of the war criminals and their living conditions. This tourist attraction is rates as AAA on China's national tourism scale. Museum entry costs 15RMB.

(望天洞景区; Wàngtiān Dòng Jǐng Qū): Wanwanchuan Village, Yahe Town, Huanren Manchu Autonomous County, Benxi, Liaoning, China. 本溪市桓仁满族自治县. This is 150 km east from Benxi city centre. By road, it will take 4.5 hours to get there. Phone: +86 414 8828967. This large cave system covering a distance of over 5000 metres. The largest cavern has a size of 6000 square metres. The second largest is 3000 square metres. Throughout the cave system are stalactites, stalagmites and other rock formations as well as pools of water giving an other worldly quality to the site. This is an AAA rated site on the national tourism scale. This tourist attraction is rates as AAA on China's national tourism scale.

(朝阳凤凰山国家森林公园; cháo yáng fèng huáng shān guó jiā sēn lín gōng yuán): This tourist attraction is rates as AAA on China's national tourism scale.

(盘锦湖滨公园; pán jĭn hú bīn gōng yuán): This tourist attraction is rates as AAA on China's national tourism scale.

(盘锦中兴公园; pán jĭn zhōng xìng gōng yuán): This tourist attraction is rates as AAA on China's national tourism scale.

(鞍山汤岗子温泉旅游度假区; ān shān tāng gāng zĭ wēn quán lǚ yóu dù jiă qū): Qianshan district, Anshan, Liaoning, China. Located 15km south of Anshan city centre, just off the road to Haicheng. Tanggangzi hot springs date back 1200 years to the Tang Dynasty and the Emperor Tang Taizong Li Shimin is said to have stayed here. The last emperor of China, Puyi enjoyed the waters here as did the Northeast warlord Zhang Zuolin. The site now contains four Chinese hot spring rehabilitation therapy centres. The water rises from the ground at 72℃. It is tasteless and crystal clear but contains many important miderals including potassium, magnesium, radon, sodium, sulfur and chlorine, such as 30 kinds of trace elements. The treatment has been found to be effective in the releaf of rheumatoid arthritis as well as many skin diseases. This tourist attraction is rates as AAA on China's national tourism scale.

(营口熊岳望儿山旅游区; yíng kŏu xióng yuè wàng rén shān lǚ yóu qū): This tourist attraction is rates as AAA on China's national tourism scale.

(锦州笔架山风景区; jĭn zhōu bĭ jià shān fēng jĭng qū): This tourist attraction is rates as AAA on China's national tourism scale.

(锦州北普陀山旅游区; jĭn zhōu bĕi pŭ tuó shān lǚ yóu qū): This tourist attraction is rates as AAA on China's national tourism scale.

(锦州辽沈战役纪念馆; jĭn zhōu liáo shĕn zhàn yì jì niàn guăn): This tourist attraction is rates as AAA on China's national tourism scale.

(大连安波温泉旅游度假区; dà lián ān bō wēn quán lǚ yóu dù jiă qū): This tourist attraction is rates as AAA on China's national tourism scale.

(大连仙峪湾旅游度假区; dà lián xiān yù wān lǚ yóu dù jiă qū): This tourist attraction is rates as AAA on China's national tourism scale.

(沈阳怪坡风景区; shĕn yáng guài pō fēng jĭng qū): This tourist attraction is rates as AAA on China's national tourism scale.

On this site during the 1990's, fossils were found that revolutionised our understanding of dinosaurs and the evolution of birds. I Chaoyang, they found feathered dinosaurs as well as some of the earliest examples of birds. This tourist attraction is rates as AAA on China's national tourism scale.

This tourist attraction is rates as AAA on China's national tourism scale.

Near Jinzhour City, south of Wanfotang Village and nine kilometres north west of Yixian County of Liaoning. It was constructed on a precipice by the north bank of the Daling River on the instructions of General Wang Kai in 1474. It is of distinctive and unusual form. The tower is formed of a tube caped with a small stone ontop of which, three stone balls finish off the full height of 3.4 metres. This tourist attraction is rates as AAA on China's national tourism scale.

South west of Yixian town near Jinzhou City, Liaoning. This 42.5 metre high pagoda, made of brick and froming thirteen levels of eaves with an octagonal base, was first built around the year 1020. It is decorated with statues of Buddha and acompanying bodhisattva on all sides. The structure's highest levels have been damaged so the detail of the top is unknown. This tourist attraction is rates as AAA on China's national tourism scale.

(大洼西安生态旅游区; dà wā xī ān shēng tài lǚ yóu qū): This tourist attraction is rates as AA on China's national tourism scale.

 by susannah. Sourced via Flickr.

(本溪铁刹山风景区; Bĕnxī Tiĕchàshān Fēng Jĭng Qū): Nandian, Benxi, Liaoning. 辽宁省本溪市南甸子镇. This tourist attraction is rates as AA on China's national tourism scale.

(鞍山岫岩药山风景区; ānshān Xiùyán Yàoshān Fēngjĭng Qū): Xuiyan, Liaoning, China. In a remote location about 3 hours bus ride south of Anshan or 2 hours from Xiuyan. This mountain is more remote and hense less busy than other mountains nearby. However it should not be overlooked. Yau Shan is one of the four famous mountains of liaoning. It is part of the Changbaishan range that covers the eastern half of Liaoning. Yau means medicine, the traditional wild Chinese herb medicines that are found in abundance on the mountain give its name. At the base of the mountain stand two monastries. One Buddhist, the other Taoist. There are many other shrines and temples on the hillsides. The climb up the mountain is steep. For the best atmosphere, you should go early in the morning to enjoy the scenery alone. This tourist attraction is rates as AA on China's national tourism scale.

(葫芦岛莲花山圣水寺; hú lú dăo lián huā shān shèng shuĭ sì): This tourist attraction is rates as AA on China's national tourism scale.

(北票大黑山国家级森林公园; bĕi piào dà hēi shān guó jiā jí sēn lín gōng yuán): This tourist attraction is rates as AA on China's national tourism scale.

(沈阳中小学生农业实践基地示范园; shĕn yáng zhōng xiăo xué shēng nóng yè shí jiàn jī dì shì fàn yuán): This tourist attraction is rates as AA on China's national tourism scale.

(沈阳水洞风景区; shĕn yáng shuĭ dòng fēng jĭng qū): This tourist attraction is rates as AA on China's national tourism scale.

(沈阳兴隆室内公园; shĕn yáng xìng lóng shì nèi gōng yuán): This tourist attraction is rates as AA on China's national tourism scale.

(葫芦岛市人文纪念公园; hú lú dăo shì rén wén jì niàn gōng yuán): This city was also known as Ningyuanweicheng during the Ming Dynasty and as Ningyuanzhoucheng throughout the Qing Dynasty. Built during the Ming Dynasty around 1430, this is one of only four surviving, well preserved Ming towns in China. It is fully 826 metres form north to south and 804 metres east to west. Entering the town is like a time warp back to the Ming and Qing periods. This tourist attraction is rates as AA on China's national tourism scale.

(辽宁三利生态农业观光园; liáo zhù sān lì shēng tài nóng yè guān guāng yuán): This tourist attraction is rates as AA on China's national tourism scale.

(沈阳七星山旅游风景区; shĕn yáng qī xīng shān lǚ yóu fēng jĭng qū): This tourist attraction is rates as AA on China's national tourism scale.

(海城九龙川自然保护区; Hăichéng jiŭ lóng chuān zì rán băo hù qū): Haicheng, Liaoning, China. This tourist attraction is rates as AA on China's national tourism scale.

(本溪金海水晶宫旅游区; bĕn xī jīn hăi shuĭ jīng gōng lǚ yóu qū): This tourist attraction is rates as AA on China's national tourism scale.

(朝阳白石水库风景区; cháo yáng bái shí shuĭ kù fēng jĭng qū): This tourist attraction is rates as AA on China's national tourism scale.

(朝阳喀左天成观; cháo yáng kā zuŏ tiān chéng guān): This tourist attraction is rates as AA on China's national tourism scale.

(葫芦岛市葫芦山庄; hú lú dăo shì hú lú shān zhuāng): This tourist attraction is rates as AA on China's national tourism scale.

(阜新乌兰木图山风景区; fù xīn wū lán mù tú shān fēng jĭng qū): This tourist attraction is rates as AA on China's national tourism scale.

(阜新三塔沟自然生态旅游区; fù xīn sān tă gōu zì rán shēng tài lǚ yóu qū): This tourist attraction is rates as AA on China's national tourism scale.

(铁岭开原象牙山旅游景区; tiĕ líng kāi yuán xiàng yá shān lǚ yóu jĭng qū): This tourist attraction is rates as AA on China's national tourism scale.

(铁岭调兵山市蒸汽机车博物馆; tiĕ líng diào bīng shān shì zhēng qì jī chē bó wù guăn): This tourist attraction is rates as AA on China's national tourism scale.

(朝阳桃花山风景区; cháo yáng táo huā shān fēng jĭng qū): This tourist attraction is rates as AA on China's national tourism scale.

(朝阳清风岭风景区; cháo yáng qīng fēng líng fēng jĭng qū): This tourist attraction is rates as AA on China's national tourism scale.

(本溪天龙洞风景区; Tiānlóngdòng Fēngjǐng Qū): Xiànxiǎo town, Benxi, Liaoning, China. 辽宁省本溪市本溪满族自治县本溪满族自治县小城镇乡磨村. Phone: +86 414 6882829. This tourist attraction is rates as AA on China's national tourism scale.

(本溪绿色生态园景区; bĕnxī lùshǎi shēng tàiyuán jǐng qū): Mingshan District, Benxi, Liaoning, China. 谢树成/明山区高台子镇. Phone: +86 414 4610666. This tourist attraction is rates as AA on China's national tourism scale.

(本溪东风湖旅游度假村; Bĕnxī Dōngfēng Hú Lǚyóudù Jiǎcūn): Dongfeng Jie, Xihu District. 溪湖区东风街道办事处. Phone: +86 414 5882888. This tourist attraction is rates as AA on China's national tourism scale.

(本溪金海水晶宫旅游区; Bĕnxī Jīnhǎishuǐ Jīnggōng Lǚyóu Qū): Benxi, Liaoning, China. 本溪市石桥子经济开发区. Phone: +86 414 6882829. This tourist attraction is rates as AA on China's national tourism scale.

(本溪爱河旅游度假村; Bĕnxī àihélǚyóudù jiǎcūn): Mingshan District, Benxi, Liaoning, China. 明山区高台子镇梁家村. Phone: +86 414 4811888. This tourist attraction is rates as AA on China's national tourism scale.

(本溪小华山公园; Běnxī xiǎohuáshān Gōngyuán): Xiangyang Shan, Mingshan District, Benxi, Liaoning, China. 明山区向阳山落. Phone: +86 414 4822369. This tourist attraction is rates as AA on China's national tourism scale.

(辽阳汤河风景区; liáo yáng tāng hé fēng jĭng qū): 辽阳市弓长岭区柳河路. Phone: +86 419-5107818 or +86 13304993160. In 1983 this area became a provincial protected area and in 2002 was rated as an AA class tourism site on the national scale. It is an area of mountain, forest and water formed around a large reservoir. This tourist attraction is rates as AA on China's national tourism scale. Entry costs 10 RMB per person and 20 RMB per car.

(辽阳冷热地公园; liáo yáng lĕng rè dì gōng yuán): Gusao between urban and rural areas, Gongchangling district, Liaoyang, Liaoning, China. 冷热地公园景区介绍 冷热地公园位于安平乡姑嫂城村,白砬子山脚下. 辽阳市弓长岭区姑嫂城村.. The park is sited in Gusaochengcun village in Gongchangling district, about 28km by road from Liaoyang city centre, just off route S106. Phone: +86 419 5607797. A strange quirk of nature, this site mantains a temperature blow freezing all through the summer and conversly, holds a temperature just above freezing throughout the winter with now snow and green grass. The explanation of this phenonymon is as yet unknown. The site is rated by the government as an AA grade scenic spot. This tourist attraction is rates as AA on China's national tourism scale. Entry is 10 RMB per person

The Baita or White Pagoda stands in a large area of parkland known locally as Baita Park.

Liaoyang (辽阳; Liáoyáng) is a city in Liaoning Province in China. This is an ancient city with a long history going back over 2400 years. Liaoyang had been the major city of Liaodong (eastern Liaoning) province since the Waring States Period (475-221 BC). When Nurhachi united the Manchurian tribes and founded the Late Jin Dynasty, Nurhachi moved his capital to Liaoning. An imperial palace was built there in 1621. The new capital was renamed Dongjing (East Capital). The city measured 900m east to west and 840m north to south. The city wall was 11 metres high with two gates on either side. However, this palace was barely completed when Nurhachi moved his court yet again to the city of Shenyang in 1625. Nowadays, little remains of the old palace but some walls and gates are visible. In 1904, Battle of Liaoyang was fought as one of the major battles of the Russo-Japanese War. After the end of the second world war and the Chinese civil war, Liaoyang became a centre for heavy industrial development. It is somewhat overshadowed by the now larger neighbours of Shenyang and Anshan but remains one of the key cities of Liaoning province.

For more information about Liaoyang city in Liaoning, China, please visit my website: <a href="http://www.abookaboutchina.com/cityguide/Liaoyang" rel="nofollow">www.abookaboutchina.com/cityguide/Liaoyang</a> by Derek Harkness. Sourced via Flickr.

(辽阳市白塔公园; liáo yáng shì bái tă gōng yuán): 60 Zhonghua Road, Liaoyang, Liaoning, China. 中华大街一段60号. From the train station take No.7 bus or just walk up the main street till you see it. Phone: +86 419 2126429. This is the tallest, at 70.4 metres, ancient pagoda in the Northeast of China. It dates to 1189 in the Liao Dynasty with additions during Yuan and Ming, making this one of the 6 oldest pagoda towers in China. The park was constructed around the pagoda in 1908. This pagoda tower was, on January 13, 1988, approved by the State Council, as a national-level heritage conservation unit. This tourist attraction is rates as AA on China's national tourism scale. This park is free.

(鞍山市罗汉圣地; ān shān shì luó hàn shèng dì): Qianshan Dong Lu, Tiedong District, Anshan, Liaoning, China. To the south side of the Jade Buddha temple complex. Situated alongside the Jade Buddha Temple, and accessed there from, this set of temples and buildings house a veriety of Buddhist statues and relics. This tourist attraction is rates as AA on China's national tourism scale.

(本溪铁刹山风景区; Jiuding Tiěchà Shān): Phone: +86 414 6150106. This tourist attraction is rates as AA on China's national tourism scale.

(本溪湖公园; Běnxī Hú Gōngyuán): Huqian Jie, Xihu District, Benxi, Liaoning, China. 溪湖区湖前街. Phone: +86 414 5836627. This tourist attraction is rates as AA on China's national tourism scale.

(葫芦岛灵山寺; húlúdǎo língshān sì): This tourist attraction is rates as A on China's national tourism scale.

(台安张学良出生地纪念馆; Táiān Zhāng Xuéliáng Chūshēngdi Jìniànguǎn): Huandongzhen‎, Tai'an County, Anshan, Liaoning, China. Phone: +86 412 466 4205 ‎. This tourist attraction is rates as A on China's national tourism scale.

(台安西平省级森林公园; Táiān Xīpíng shěngjí sēnlín gōngyuán): Tai'an County, Anshan, Liaoning, China. Phone: +86 412-4657206. This tourist attraction is rates as A on China's national tourism scale.

(海城卧鹿山效圣寺旅游区; Hǎichéng WòLùshān Xiào Shèng sì lǚyóuqū): Haicheng County, Anshan, Liaoning, China. Legend dates the site to the Tang Dynasty. It is the province's only large ancient temples of stone structure. It's know locally as the 'Old Temple'. This tourist attraction is rates as A on China's national tourism scale.

Praised both his stylish paintings, particularly of cliffs and rocks, and originality in poetry, which they likened to Li He's, Cao Xueqin died some time in 1763 or 1764, leaving his novel, Dreams of Red Mansions, in a very advanced stage of completion. He was survived by a wife and at least one son.

Liaoyang (辽阳; Liáoyáng) is a city in Liaoning Province in China. This is an ancient city with a long history going back over 2400 years. Liaoyang had been the major city of Liaodong (eastern Liaoning) province since the Waring States Period (475-221 BC). When Nurhachi united the Manchurian tribes and founded the Late Jin Dynasty, Nurhachi moved his capital to Liaoning. An imperial palace was built there in 1621. The new capital was renamed Dongjing (East Capital). The city measured 900m east to west and 840m north to south. The city wall was 11 metres high with two gates on either side. However, this palace was barely completed when Nurhachi moved his court yet again to the city of Shenyang in 1625. Nowadays, little remains of the old palace but some walls and gates are visible. In 1904, Battle of Liaoyang was fought as one of the major battles of the Russo-Japanese War. After the end of the second world war and the Chinese civil war, Liaoyang became a centre for heavy industrial development. It is somewhat overshadowed by the now larger neighbours of Shenyang and Anshan but remains one of the key cities of Liaoning province.

For more information about Liaoyang city in Liaoning, China, please visit my website: <a href="http://www.abookaboutchina.com/cityguide/Liaoyang" rel="nofollow">www.abookaboutchina.com/cityguide/Liaoyang</a> by Derek Harkness. Sourced via Flickr.

(辽阳市曹雪芹纪念馆; Liáoyáng Shì Cáo Xuěqín Jìniàn Guǎn): Wusheng Road, Baita District, Liaoyang, Liaoning, China. 武圣路卧狮胡同2号. From the train station take No.20 bus. Phone: +86 419 2138074. The Dream of Red Mansions,&quot; is one of the four most famous novels of China. It was written by Cao Xueqin around the year 1640 - at the time of change form the Ming to the Qing dynasties. Cao failed to finish the writing but the book was completed after his death. The Dream of Red Mansions was a controversial book at the time. It was critical of the ruling classes and court life and some saw it as subversive to the new Qing Emperor, favouring the reinstatement of the Ming dynasty. Over the years there has been much debate as to where Cao Xueqin was born. Liaoyang has been put forward as the likely location. In 1995 a Memorial to Cao Xueqin was opened in Liaoyang. This tourist attraction is rates as A on China's national tourism scale. This museum is free.

(鞍山岫岩罗圈背风景区; ānshān Xiùyán Luó Quānbēi Fēngjǐng Qū): Xiuyan County, Anshan, Liaoning, China. This tourist attraction is rates as A on China's national tourism scale.

(鞍山市岫岩县清凉山风景区; ānshān Shì Xiùyán Xiàn Qīngliáng Shān Fēngjĭng Qū): Xiuyan County, Anshan, Liaoning, China. This tourist attraction is rates as A on China's national tourism scale.

(丹东五龙山; Dāndōng Wŭlóngshān): Zhen'an County, Dandong, Liaoning. 辽宁省丹东市振安区五龙背. Sited about 20km from Dandong city centre. Phone: +86 415 2801164. This is an area of great natural beauty as well has religious harmony. The mountain peak rises to 708.5 metres and is covered in forest. Within the park stands Lingfengchan Temple. This is the largest Buddhist temple in the north east of China. There is also a botanical garden featuring a natural rock garden in the style so particular to China. If you need to relax, you can visit the Wulongbei Hot Spring baths and spa.

The Friendship Bridges in Dandong

For more info see my website, <a href="http://www.abookaboutchina.com" rel="nofollow">www.abookaboutchina.com</a> pages about <a href="http://www.abookaboutchina.com/cityguide/Dandong" rel="nofollow">Dandong City</a> and <a href="http://www.abookaboutchina.com/travelguide/Liaoning" rel="nofollow">Liaoning Province</a> in China. by Derek Harkness. Sourced via Flickr.

(丹东鸭绿江端桥; Dāndōng Yālù Jiāng Duānqiáo): Located near the centre of town near the train station. Phone: +86 415 2144499. Spanning the gap between China and North Korea, the original bridge was built by the Japanese between 1909 and 1911. The bridge was 944.2 metres long and 11 metres wide with 12 spans. The fourth span from the Chinese side opened up vertical to facilitate tall ships using the navigation channel. During the Korean war, American bombers distroyed the bridge. The Chinese section was repaired and in June 1993, it became a tourist attraction.

43 Nan Jie, Baita District, Liaoyang, Liaoning, China. 清真寺位于辽阳武圣南路43号. On the same street as the Cao Xueqin Museum and Wang Erlie Memorial Hall. This mosque dates to before 1651. The complex covers an area of 1785 square metres. Not open to public.

(辽阳参窝水库简介; Liáoyáng Shēnwō shuĭ kù jiăn jiè): Gongchangling District, Liaoyang, Liaoning, China. 中国辽宁省位于辽阳弓长岭区. Located in Gongchangling district, about 38km from the city centre. From route S106, turn off at Gusaochengcun village and follow the road north to the reservoir. Phone: +86 419 3139999. Built in 1973 on the Taizi River and covering 5334 hectares, this is one of the largest reservoirs in the region. The surrounding land is used for a variety of recreation activities.

(弓长岭区温泉高尔夫球场; gōng cháng líng qū wēn quán gāo ĕr fū qiú cháng): Gongchangling District, Liaoyang, Liaoning, China. About 38km from Liaoyang city centre, just south of Gongchangling town, new to the Tanghe reservoir. Golf courses are rare in the Northeast of China. This 9 hole course covers 30,000 square metres and is designed to faithfully recreate the Scottish landscape for the game.

(辽阳瓦子沟简介; liáoyáng Wăzĭgōu Jiăn Jiè): Gongchangling District, Liaoyang, Liaoning, China. 中国辽宁省辽阳市长岭区. About 29km south of Liaoyang city, between the route S320 and Tanghe reservoir. Located in the middle reaches of the reservoir at Tanghe, about 35km from Liaoyang city centre. This site covers some 10 square kilometres and shows W Zaigou style farming with orchards and other features.

(文庙游园; wén miào yóu yuán): Dong Da Jie, Baita District, Liaoyang, Liaoning, China. 东大街文庙广场. First built in the time of the Emperor Kangxi in the Qing dynasty and covering 10,000 square metres, this was one of the largest Confucian temple gardens in the north of China. In recent years it has benefited from a 25 million RMB restoration fund which expanded the site to 32,000 square metres. Set within the garden is a 6.2 metre high statue of the master Kong Zi (Confucius). This is the largest statue of Kong Zi in China today. It was carved from granite and was hollowed out inside to save weight. Despite this it still weighs over 40 tonnes.

(瓦子沟农家风情旅游区; wă zĭ gōu nóng jiā fēng qíng lǚ yóu qū): Beining City, Jinzhou, Liaoning, China. 辽宁锦州市北宁市.

(太子河漂流; tài zĭ hé piāo liú): Yan Zhou Cheng and Gongchangting district, Liaoyang, Liaoning, China. 参窝水库坝下至燕州城下. Begining at Shenwo Reservoir, 38km from Liaoyang city, then down stream to finish at Yanzhoucheng, Gongchangting district. You will need transport at each end to and from the city. Phone: +86 4196858989 or +86 13898254995. This 10km rafting trip runs from near Shenwo Reservoir down to the Yanzhoucheng. The river depth here is between 1 and 2 metres. You can drift with the currents, allowing you to admire the scenery as you glide along. The rafting trip costs 40 RMB per person.

(弓长岭滑雪场; Gōngchánglíng Huáxuĕ Cháng): Tanghe scenic spot, Gongchangling District, Liaoyang, Liaoning, China. 34km from Liaoyang city centre just off of route S106, about 3km south of Gongchangling town. Phone: +86 41951111, 115, 111, 112. This ski resort covers 100 hectares making it one of the largest in the region. There are several slops for children, beginners and advanced skiers and tuition is available. A 500 seat restaurant can provide refreshments. The site is 30km from Liaoyang City, 34km from Benxi City and 35km from Anshan City making it a very central location.

(李兆麟故居; lĭ zhào lín gù jū): 36km north of Liaoyang city. Take route S101 to Dengta then turn right onto S304. It's 8km further along on the left. Born here in November 1910, Li Zhaolin became an important figure in China's struggle against the Japanese during the early part of the 20th century. He joined the communist party became a general in charge of the 3rd Northeast army. In 1946 he was assassinated by the Kuomintang. The house received county level protection and has been restored to show the style of living and to tell the life story of this patriotic hero of China.

(姑嫂城; Gūsăochéng): Anping Township, Gongchangling District, Liaoyang, Liaoning, China. 辽阳市市辖区华表路. 姑嫂城位于今弓长岭区安平乡姑嫂村北白石山之阳.. About 28km from Liaoyang city next to Gusaocheng village of Gongchangling District. Access is via Lengredi Park (Hot and Cold Park). This is an ancient fortification. It is thought that the site has been fortified since the Tang dynasty, over 1000 years ago, however, the current building is thought to date to the Ming dynasty. It was built as part of the defensive structures of Liaodong at the far eastern end of the Great Wall of China.

(燕州城; yàn zhōu chéng): 燕州城. This is a well preserved ancient city with buildings dating back to the Tang Dynasty over 1200 years ago. It was built by the Goguryo people as was the scene of a major battle between the Goguryo and the Tang emperor. It is rare because the ancient structures are well preserved with little later construction obscuring the older parts and so has received provincial level protection.

(关帝庙; guān dì miào): Baita District, Liaoyang, Liaoning, China. Near to government buildings and Tesco's supermarket. This is a large Taoist temple. The site dates to 1281 and covers an area 12,000 square metres.

(永安禅寺; yŏng ān chán sì):

(清风寺; qīng fēng sì): Shoushan Town, Liaoyang County, Liaoyang, Liaoning, China. 中国辽宁省辽阳市辽阳县首山乡马伊屯村. Situated on the south side of Shoushan Hill, north of Shoushan Town. It is buried deep within the old lanes of Shoushan. Phone: +86 419 7174051. This temple complex, covering 3,418 square meters, was built in 1571 AD. It had over 100 Buddhist statues but they were largely destroyed during the cultural revolution. From 1985 onwards, the site has been repaired and in 1988 was protected at the provincial level.

(核伙沟自然风景区; hé huŏ gōu zì rán fēng jĭng qū): Hanzhen, Liaoyang County, Liaoyang, Liaoning, China. 辽阳市寒岭镇. 11 kilometers southeast of Hanling Town. About 54km east of Liaoyang, near the border with Benxi city. Phone: +86 419 6110366. A scenic area of over 7.97 square kilometres consisting of mountains and valleys. Part of the Qianshan mountain range, Hehuoguo park contains canyon scenery with waterfalls, natural springs and ancient pine trees.

(观音寺; guān yīn sì): Zhonghua Lu, Liaoyang, Liaoning, China. About 2.75km from the train station, on the east side of town. Built in the 33rd year of Qing Emperor Kangxi (1694), the temple covers an area of 16,800 square meters. It covers a small mound giving the complex a 3 dimensional aspect. It's contains a number of buildings with intricate painting and ornamentation throughout.

The tombs at Dongjing Ling show many of the architectural features of the larger Imperial tombs of Shenyang and Beijing. However the scale here is much much smaller.

Liaoyang (辽阳; Liáoyáng) is a city in Liaoning Province in China. This is an ancient city with a long history going back over 2400 years. Liaoyang had been the major city of Liaodong (eastern Liaoning) province since the Waring States Period (475-221 BC). When Nurhachi united the Manchurian tribes and founded the Late Jin Dynasty, Nurhachi moved his capital to Liaoning. An imperial palace was built there in 1621. The new capital was renamed Dongjing (East Capital). The city measured 900m east to west and 840m north to south. The city wall was 11 metres high with two gates on either side. However, this palace was barely completed when Nurhachi moved his court yet again to the city of Shenyang in 1625. Nowadays, little remains of the old palace but some walls and gates are visible. In 1904, Battle of Liaoyang was fought as one of the major battles of the Russo-Japanese War. After the end of the second world war and the Chinese civil war, Liaoyang became a centre for heavy industrial development. It is somewhat overshadowed by the now larger neighbours of Shenyang and Anshan but remains one of the key cities of Liaoning province.

For more information about Liaoyang city in Liaoning, China, please visit my website: <a href="http://www.abookaboutchina.com/cityguide/Liaoyang" rel="nofollow">www.abookaboutchina.com/cityguide/Liaoyang</a> by Derek Harkness. Sourced via Flickr.

(东京陵; Dongjingling): Taizihe District, Liaoyang, Liaoning, China. About 20 minutes by car east of the city. Built by the first Manchurian Emperor, Nurhachu. Four members of the family are buried here in three tomb complexes. The tombs display the traditional Manchurian culture. A high wall surrounds each site with a single gate at one end. Inside the gate of the larger tomb, a path leads to a small building, within which stands a steele engraved with epitaph describing the persons life in some length. The steele is mounted on top of a large tortoise. In the other tombs, the steele stand exposed without the covering building. Beyond the steele is an inner gateway which takes you through to the tomb mound it's self. Each tomb is round, made of stone or brickwork and has a domed top. The tombs are normally locked. The caretakers house is beside the tombs and if asked nicely she will open them up and show you around. A small gratuity should be given to the caretaker for opening the site for you.

This is a bust of the famous politician and scholar, Wang Erlie. He was born in Liaoyang. He studied in Qianshan. He went on to achieve exceptional grades in the Imperial Exams and became a very important government officer.

Liaoyang (辽阳; Liáoyáng) is a city in Liaoning Province in China. This is an ancient city with a long history going back over 2400 years. Liaoyang had been the major city of Liaodong (eastern Liaoning) province since the Waring States Period (475-221 BC). When Nurhachi united the Manchurian tribes and founded the Late Jin Dynasty, Nurhachi moved his capital to Liaoning. An imperial palace was built there in 1621. The new capital was renamed Dongjing (East Capital). The city measured 900m east to west and 840m north to south. The city wall was 11 metres high with two gates on either side. However, this palace was barely completed when Nurhachi moved his court yet again to the city of Shenyang in 1625. Nowadays, little remains of the old palace but some walls and gates are visible. In 1904, Battle of Liaoyang was fought as one of the major battles of the Russo-Japanese War. After the end of the second world war and the Chinese civil war, Liaoyang became a centre for heavy industrial development. It is somewhat overshadowed by the now larger neighbours of Shenyang and Anshan but remains one of the key cities of Liaoning province.

For more information about Liaoyang city in Liaoning, China, please visit my website: <a href="http://www.abookaboutchina.com/cityguide/Liaoyang" rel="nofollow">www.abookaboutchina.com/cityguide/Liaoyang</a> by Derek Harkness. Sourced via Flickr.

(王尔烈纪念馆; wáng ĕr liè jì niàn guăn): Wusheng Road, Baita District, Liaoyang, Liaoning, China. 辽阳市卧狮胡同2号.. Take No.20 bus. It's very near to the Cao Xueqin Memorial Hall. Wang Erlie was a court official born in Liaoyang during the rein of the Emperor Qianlong. He achieved excelent scores in his Emperial exams and subsequently had a career that saw him become one of the richest and most powerful people in China. The museum tells the story of his life and has some English language translations. This museum is free.

Liaoyang (辽阳; Liáoyáng) is a city in Liaoning Province in China. This is an ancient city with a long history going back over 2400 years. Liaoyang had been the major city of Liaodong (eastern Liaoning) province since the Waring States Period (475-221 BC). When Nurhachi united the Manchurian tribes and founded the Late Jin Dynasty, Nurhachi moved his capital to Liaoning. An imperial palace was built there in 1621. The new capital was renamed Dongjing (East Capital). The city measured 900m east to west and 840m north to south. The city wall was 11 metres high with two gates on either side. However, this palace was barely completed when Nurhachi moved his court yet again to the city of Shenyang in 1625. Nowadays, little remains of the old palace but some walls and gates are visible. In 1904, Battle of Liaoyang was fought as one of the major battles of the Russo-Japanese War. After the end of the second world war and the Chinese civil war, Liaoyang became a centre for heavy industrial development. It is somewhat overshadowed by the now larger neighbours of Shenyang and Anshan but remains one of the key cities of Liaoning province.

For more information about Liaoyang city in Liaoning, China, please visit my website: <a href="http://www.abookaboutchina.com/cityguide/Liaoyang" rel="nofollow">www.abookaboutchina.com/cityguide/Liaoyang</a> by Derek Harkness. Sourced via Flickr.

(东京城; dDngjīng Chéng): Taizihe District, Liaoyang, Liaoning, China. About 20 minutes east of the city by car or taxi. Phone: +86 419 2126814. Liaoyang became the capital city of the Manchurian Late Jin Empire in 1621. The emperor Nurhachi built his imperial palace here and called the city Dongjing or "East Capital." The city was 896 metres east to west and 886 meters north to south, covering and area of 0.75 square kilometres. A few walls and gates remain of the old palace and provide an insite into Manchurian architecture. This site gets few visitors and is only staffed by one man on a casual basis so opening times may vary. Entry is 10 RMB per person.

(辽阳市博物馆; liáo yáng shì bó wù guăn): 2 Zongxin Street, Wensheng District, Liaoyang, Liaoning, China. 辽阳市文圣区中心路2号. Form the train station take No.23 or No.16 bus. Phone: +86 (419) 3232297 or +86 (1330) 4198145. This museum opend in 1985 and in 2002 was graded as a AA class site by the Provincial Tourism Bureau. The museum covers 31,450 square meters over five galleries and contains 4,000 items form the neolithic through to Ming and Qing dynasties.

(龙峰寺风景区; lóng fēng sì fēng jĭng qū): Xiadahe Town, Hongwei district, Liaoyang, Liaoning, China. 宏伟区先锋路36号. About about 35 kilometers form Liaoyang City centre. Longfeng temple dates to the time of the Tang Dynasty Emperor Zhenguan, over 1,300 years ago. It was renovated during the Ming and Qing dynasties. According to inscriptions in the temple, Tang Emperor Taizong visited the site as did the Emperor Qianlong of Qing in the 44th year of his rule. The temple was damaged during the Cultural Revolution of the 20th century. It has since been restored.

(关山湖国家水利风景区; guān shān hú guó jiā shuĭ lì fēng jĭng qū): Fushun County, Fushun, Liaoning, China. 23 km southeast of Fushun City. This reservoir, also known as Beihu (north lake) is a popular beauty spot with dense forest, mountain and lake.

(三块石森林公园; sān kuài shí sēn lín gōng yuán): Fushun County, Fushun, Liaoning, China. 辽东山区腹地的抚顺县. Near Liaodong mountain about 53km from Fushun city. Phone: +86-413-2650174. Here you can hike through forest covered mountains which abound in wildlife. Within the area is the site of a revolutionary base during the war again Japan and the following Chinese Civil War. Preserved trenches can still be seen. Gates open 8:30am-5pm. Entry to the park costs 80RMB.

(元帅林国家森林公园; yuán shuài lín guó jiā sēn lín gōng yuán): Fushun County, Fushun, Liaoning, China. About 32km from Fushun city centre. Phone: +86 413 3480628. This park, created in 1992, covers an area of 10.44 hectares. It is located northeast of Fushun city on a promontory on the north side of Dahuafang Lake.

Gao'er Mountain Park (高尔山古塔; Gāoěrshān Gǔtǎ) is located on the north edge of Fushun city, Liaoning, China, on the other side of the railway line from the Fushun War Criminals Management Centre Museum). Gao'ershan is a beautiful area of mountainous parkland dotted with Buddhist temples, statues and pagodas. The tall pagoda at the top of the hill dates to 1088 making it the oldest extant pagoda in China. It is 14.1 metres high with a diameter of 6.8 metres. by Derek Harkness. Sourced via Flickr.

(高尔山古塔; gāo ĕr shān gŭ tă): On the north edge of town on the other side of the railway line from the Fushun war criminals management centre. Phone: +86 413 7673079. A beautiful area of mountainous park land dotted with Buddhist temples statues and pagodas. The tall pagoda at the top of the hill dates to 1088 making it the oldest extant pagoda in China. It is 14.10 metres high with a diameter of 6.8 metres.

(大伙房水库; dà huŏ fáng shuĭ kù): Eastern outskirts of Fushun City Covering 110 square kilometres and with a capacity of 2.2 billion cubic metres, this is the largest resrvoir in the north of China.

574-Fushun by kattebelletje. Sourced via Flickr.

(西露天矿; Xīlù Tiān Kuàng): Wanghua District Just south of the city Phone: +86 413 2548859. This National Industrial Tourist Exemplary Spot is the largest open cast coal mine in Asia. It is 6.6 kilometers from east to west, north to south it is 2 km wide, with a total area of 13.2 square kilometers. The vertical depth is 388 meters mining. The site opened in 1914 and continues in use to this day.

Royal Ocean World (皇家极地海洋世界; Huángjiājídehǎiyángshìjiè) is located in Fushun city in Liaoning province of China. It opened in 2008 and is still under expansion, this claims to be the biggest aquarium in Asia. Currently there are four displays open. The Ocean World display contains sea and fresh water aquariums filled with all manor of aquatic life. The Century Forest display focuses on reptiles, lizards, snakes and crocodiles. There is also the Narnian Castle which is a theatre where animal shows are performed several times throughout the day (show times may vary throughout the year). Lastly there is Susu world, a soft play centre for children. Each of these displays can be purchased separately or on a combined ticket. Beside this site, in late 2009, Asia's largest water park will open, featuring swimming pools, water flumes and other water activities.

For more information about <a href="http://www.abookaboutchina.com/cityguide/Fushun" rel="nofollow">Fushun</a> city in China, please visit my website: <a href="http://www.abookaboutchina.com/cityguide/Fushun" rel="nofollow">www.abookaboutchina.com/cityguide/Fushun</a> by Derek Harkness. Sourced via Flickr.

(皇家极地海洋世界; huáng jiā jí dì hăi yáng shì jiè): Wanghua District, Fushun, Liaoning, China. 抚顺高湾(沈吉高速抚顺西出口. Off the Shenfu highway midway between Shenyang and Fushun cities. Phone: +86 413 6118888 or +86 24 82711236. Newly opened in 2008 and still under expansion, this claims to be the biggest aquarium in Asia. The Ocean World display contains sea and fresh water aquariums filled with all manor of aquatic life. The Century Forest display focuses on reptiles, lizards, snakes and crocodiles. Each of these displays can be purchased separately or on a combined ticket. There is also the Narnian Castle which is a theatre where animal shows are performed several times throughout the day (show times may vary throughout the year). Nearby is the new (2010) water park swimming centre. Each exhibition building is individually priced. Each exhibit costing 70RMB. For both buildings you would pay 140RMB.

(中会寺系; zhōng huì sì xì): Qianshan District, Anshan, Liaoning, China. Inside Qianshan park, near to the Matria Buddha cable car A large netted complex within which a huge variety of birds may be observed.

For more info see my website, <a href="http://www.abookaboutchina.com" rel="nofollow">www.abookaboutchina.com</a> pages about <a href="http://www.abookaboutchina.com/cityguide/Anshan" rel="nofollow">Anshan City</a> and <a href="http://www.abookaboutchina.com/travelguide/Liaoning" rel="nofollow">Liaoning Province</a> in China. by Derek Harkness. Sourced via Flickr.

(二一九公园; Eryijiu Gongyuan): Yuanlin Lu, Tiedong District, Anshan, Liaoning, China. From the train station, follow the road Eryijiu Jie due east. The largest park in the city. Named after the date of liberation of Anshan by the PLA on the nineteenth of february 1948. The park, which covers 78 hectares, contains woodland areas around a series of lakes. The area is very popular with the local people who can frequently be seen exercising, dancing, singing, playing music and practicing taichi in the grounds — especially in the early morning of mid evening. Entry is free.

(东山城市森林公园; dōng shān chéng shì sēn lín gōng yuán): Tiedong district, Anshan, Liaoning, China. The park begins near the International Hotel and ends at the back of 219 park, near the Jade Buddha Temple. his is a network of paths, the longest of which is a 5km path way runs along the crest of the hills that form the eastern flank of the city. The Park covers 975 hectares of which 946 hectares is woodland and 22 hectares is water. Dongshan translates as East Mountain. Views can be enjoyed of the city and surrounding land as you stroll through dense woodland. Approximately half way along, a tower on the high point of the ridge, allows you to rest while taking in the views. A small entrance fee is required to climb the tower. Entrance is free - except view tower.

(鞍山市台安县西平森林公园; ān shān shì tái ān xiàn xī píng sēn lín gōng yuán): Tai'an County, Anshan, Liaoning, China.

(鞍山市台安县张学良出生地纪念馆; ān shān shì tái ān xiàn zhāng xué liáng chū shēng dì jì niàn guăn): Tai'an County, Anshan, Liaoning, China. Zhang Xueliang was the most powerful of the Northern Warlords during the period just before the Japanese invasion of China. He had inherited his position from his father who had briefly been appointed President of the Republic of China before being assassinated by the Japanese. This building was the birth place of Zhang Xueliang on June 4, 1901, and is now a museum telling his life story.

(景点名称:析木石棚; jĭng diăn míng chēng xī mù shí péng): Yingkou near Gaizhou City 原有两座石棚. Southeast of the prefecture. Phone: Flag Flag Flag. This is the remains of a tomb dating to the Neolithic. The extant structure consists of a large stone slab supported on several standing stone uprights. Of the same period, remains of stone buildings and impliments have been found in Haicheng's Shimu, Pailou, Datun, Chagou and Tengao, etc. Other ancient relics have been found in Xiaogushan near Haicheng and are Paleoanthropelogical Relics of at least 20,000 years ago. These demonstrate that civilisation developed in the area around Anshan contemporary with the ancient civilisations of the Central Plains of China. These stones stand 2.8 metres high like a lesser Stonehenge.

(鞍山市海城东四方台温泉度假区; ān shān shì hăi chéng dōng sì fāng tái wēn quán dù jiă qū): Haicheng County, Anshan, Liaoning, China.

(鞍山市千山区双龙山旅游景区; ān shān shì qiān shān qū shuāng lóng shān lǚ yóu jĭng qū): Qianshan District, Anshan, Liaoning, China. At present, covers an area of 23 square kilometres. This is a first-class hot springs rehabilitation centre with comprehensive cultural and entertainment centres. The Northeast Region of China's largest tourist resort for Hot Springs.

(鞍山市海城九龙川自然保护区; ān shān shì hăi chéng jiŭ lóng chuān zì rán băo hù qū): Haicheng County, Anshan, Liaoning, China.

(鞍山市岫岩县龙潭湾风景区; ān shān shì xiù yán xiàn lóng tán wān fēng jĭng qū): Xiuyan County, Anshan, Liaoning, China. River Nature Reserve, located in a town, 50 km away from the main urban areas. The reserve has a total area of 34 square kilometres with more than 20,000 acres of forest, more than 300 species of all types of animals and a large verity of plants. This is a unique scene. Liaoning provincial government approved the establishment of provincial-level nature reserve.

(鞍山市海城白云山风景区; ān shān shì hăi chéng bái yún shān fēng jĭng qū): Haicheng County, Anshan, Liaoning, China.

(桓龙湖; Huánlónghú): Huanren County, Benxi, Liaoning, China. Over 200km and about 5 hours drive east of Benxi city in Huanren County. Near to Wunushan. This large reservoir situated amidst mountains and forests allows for a wide range of leisure activities including boat tours and fishing.

(本溪滴水洞简介; Bĕnxī Dīshuǐdòng Jiǎnjiè): This 30 metre high waterfall runs all year round but is most spectacular after rain when it makes a noise like thunder.

(大石湖; Dàshíhú): Benxi Manchu Autonomous County, Benxi, Liaoning, China. 本溪满族自治县兰河峪乡东. This lake is the point of origin of the Taizi River. The area is know for its waterfalls.

(庙后山; Miaohou Shan): Benxi Manchu Autonomous Region, Benxi, Liaoning, China. 辽宁省本溪市本溪满族自治县本桓线. On the road to Guanmenshan. This is the site of many ancient fossil finds. Early signs of prehistoric man have been found in the caves on this hill when the area was excavated in 1978.

(南天门风景区; Nántiānmén Fēngjǐng Qū): Nanfen District, Benxi, Liaoning, China. About 30km form Benxi city centre.

(望溪公园; Wàngxī Gōngyuán): Renmin Lu, Benxi City, Xihu District, Benxi, Liaoning, China. 人民路. In the centre of Benxi city, about 500 metres east of the train station. A pleasant park in the centre of Benxi city.

(平顶山; Píngdǐngshān): Tianmen Road, Mingshan District, Benxi, Liaoning, China. About 5 or 6km south of the city centre. This is a high mountain with a distinctive flat top. Several routes ascend the mountain through forest scenery. Alternatively, a cable car runs to the summit.

(温泉寺; Wēnquánsì): 37 Dong Jie, Benxi City, Liaoning, China. 温泉寺位于本溪市东三十七里. The spa water rises here at a steady 49 degrees Celsius and infused with minerals. Convalescing here is said to be therapeutic for a wide range of illnesses. This ancient spa suffered badly during the early 20th century and in 1949 was almost reduced to rubble. It has since been rebuilt and benefited greatly from improved road and rail transport and the increase in other neighbouring tourist sites such as the Benxi Water Cave.

Homemade baijiu (Chinese vodka). by Eden Li. Sourced via Flickr.

(老龙口; laolongkou): Xiao Dong road, Dadong district, Liaoning, China. A small museum beside the Laolongkou distillery tells the history of Baiju production on the site which dates to the early 17th century. The display includes old maps and photographs of the area. Equipment used in the wine production and a collection of old bottles, labels and trademarks used by the company. Free entry.

For more info see my website, <a href="http://www.abookaboutchina.com" rel="nofollow">www.abookaboutchina.com</a> pages about <a href="http://www.abookaboutchina.com/cityguide/Shenyang" rel="nofollow">Shenyang City</a> and <a href="http://www.abookaboutchina.com/travelguide/Liaoning" rel="nofollow">Liaoning Province</a> in China. by Derek Harkness. Sourced via Flickr.

Zhongshan Square, Heping district, Shenyang, Liaoning, China. Heping District (About 1.25 km from the south train station.) This is the largest statue of Mao Zedong in china. Around the base of the statue are images of workers, peasants and soldiers in heroic poses. The square is a popular place for locals to relax. No entry fee.

Tawan Street, Huanggu District, Shenyang, Liaoning, China. This 50 metre tall pagoda was built by the Qidan (an ancient nationality in northern China) around the year 1040.

 by Prince Roy. Sourced via Flickr.

In the north of city, this large area of parkland surrounds the Zhaoling tomb. Beiling Park is the area that surrounds Zhaoling Tomb. The park was originally part of the tomb area. Access to this area was restricted to the emperor and family. Ordinary people could not go in. With the advent of the new People's Republic of China, the park was opened up to the public. A small entrance charge of 8 RMB must be paid.

<a href="http://www.abookaboutchina.com/location/Imperial-Palace-Shenyang" rel="nofollow">Shenyang Imperial Palace</a> (also known as Mukden Palace) in the North East of China, is not as well known as the larger 'Forbidden City' Palace of Beijing. However, Shenyang's Palace is every bit Beijing's equal in beauty and historical interest. The UNESCO lists Shenyang's Imperial Palace along side Beijing's. Construction on the Palace in Shenyang started in 1625 by the command of Emperor Taizu Nuerhachi of the Late Jin dynasty who ruled the North East of modern China — an area known to history as Manchuria. When the Manchu people eventually conquered Ming dynasty China to form the Qing dynasty, and moved their capital to Beijing, they maintained the Palace in Shenyang as a second capital. The Qing Emperors would frequently visit Shenyang and stay in the Palace there while paying homage to their ancestors who's tombs lie nearby.

For more info see my website, <a href="http://www.abookaboutchina.com" rel="nofollow">www.abookaboutchina.com</a> pages about <a href="http://www.abookaboutchina.com/cityguide/Shenyang" rel="nofollow">Shenyang City</a> and <a href="http://www.abookaboutchina.com/travelguide/Liaoning" rel="nofollow">Liaoning Province</a> in China. by Derek Harkness. Sourced via Flickr.

Shenyang Road, Shenhe district, Shenyang, Liaoning, China. Located one block south of the Imperial Palace Museum. Shenjing is the old name for Shenyang during the 17th century - 'jing' meaning capital city. This street tries to recreate the architectural styles of the time. It is however only a facard over the front of relatively modern 20th century structures within which a veriety of tourist orientated shops operate. Entry is free.

(北塔, 南塔, 东塔, 西塔; Beita, Nanta, Dongta, Xita): Built in the 1640's and now restored to close to original, these four pagodas stand each about 4km north, south, east and west of the Imperial Palace that was the centre of the old city. Each pagoda is almost identical to the others but the north and south pagodas are in the best condition today. The west pagoda may be difficult to find as it is now set within the courtyard of some other buildings where as the other three enjoy their own small parks. Entry to all four is free.

Shenyang Raod, Shenhe district, Shenyang, Liaoning, China. The original city walls of Shenyang were distroyed in the 1950's. Some small sections have been reconstructed to give an impression of the former city. These remains consist of two gates, Hauiyuanmen and Fujinmen, at either end of Shenyang Lu.

Shuangyuan Road, Dongling District, Shenyang, Liaoning, China Within the grounds of Shenyang Botanical Gardens. Just to the east of the city. Phone: +86 24 81270010. Housing 15 historical locomotives and 3 duplicated historical locomotives. It is the biggest steam locomotive museum in China. The museum is open daily from 8am to 6pm.

(皇家极地海洋世界; huáng jiā jí dì hǎi yáng shì jiè): 抚顺高湾(沈吉高速抚顺西出口. (Off the Shenfu highway midway between Shenyang and Fushun cities. Technically over the border into Fushun but so close to Shenyang city as to warrant inclusion here. Phone: +86 413 6118888 or +86 24 82711236. Newly opened in 2008 and still under expansion, this claims to be the biggest aquarium in Asia. Currently there are two displays open (out of a planned four displays). The Ocean World display contains sea and fresh water aquariums filled with all manor of aquatic life. The Century Forest display focuses on reptiles, lizards, snakes and crocodiles. Each of these displays can be purchased separately or on a combined ticket. There is also the Narnian Castle which is a theatre where animal shows are performed several times throughout the day (show times may vary throughout the year). Beside this site, in 2009, Asia's largest water park will open, featuring swimming pools, water flumes and other water activities. Buses on route from Shenyang (South railway station) to Fushun stop on the express way near the park. The bus fair is 10RMB. Entrance to the exhibits ranges from 70RMB to 140RMB.

Tawan Street, Huanggu District, Shenyang, Liaoning, China. This 50 metre tall pagoda was built by the Qidan (an ancient nationality in northern China) around the year 1040.

Built in 1663, this palace is the centre for the Shenyang Taoist Association.

Built in 1663, this palace is the centre for the Shenyang Taoist Association.

An important Buddhist temple dating to the Tang Dynasty (618-907).

This Tibetan Buddhist temple was founded in 1636 on the specification of the Qing Emperor.

This is the largest mosque in the city covering an area of 7,000 square metres. It consists of one large hall for worship and several smaller side buildings used by the shenyang Islam Association.

This is a cathedral built in the Gothic style 24 large granite buttresses. It has a capacity for a congregation of 1,000.

Set along the river side, this park contains a man-made beach, musical fountains, plaza and birch wood forest.

Dandong City from the Yalu River.

For more info see my website, <a href="http://www.abookaboutchina.com" rel="nofollow">www.abookaboutchina.com</a> pages about <a href="http://www.abookaboutchina.com/cityguide/Dandong" rel="nofollow">Dandong City</a> and <a href="http://www.abookaboutchina.com/travelguide/Liaoning" rel="nofollow">Liaoning Province</a> in China. by Derek Harkness. Sourced via Flickr.

Located anywhere along the river front in Dandong. The Yalu River marks the boundary between China and North Korea. Cruse boats from Dandong run up and down the water front. This allows you the closest possible look at the infamous recluse country on the other side of the bank. North Korea souvenirs are available on the boat but are much cheaper on the shore.

Phone: +86 411 84802938. Open from 8:30am until 4:30pm.

(俄羅斯風情街; Éluósi Chuí Qíng Jiē): From Zhongshan Square in the centre of the city, it is a short walk up Shanghai Street, over the railway bridge to find Russian Street. Russian Street is a 400 metre street in the north of the old part of Dalian. Here there are several old buildings that date back to the start of the 20th century, when Dalian was a Russian city.

Phone: +86 411 82540584.

(人民广场; Rénmín Guǎngchǎng):

(中山广场; Zhōngshān Quǎngchǎng):

(劳动公园; Láodòng Gōngyuán):

(海之韵广场; Hǎizhīyùn Guǎngchǎng):

(西炮台公园: Xishi, Yingkou, Liaoning China

History

Liaoning has an ancient history. The area has become famous for its fosils. In 1984, the scull and other bones of Jinniushan Man were found. These date back 280,000 years. The remains of a village dating to 8,000 years ago, called Chahai Village, has been found near Fuxin. This is the oldest neolithic site in China. In 1983 the temple and alter complex of Niuheliang was discovered near Jianping in western Liaoning. This belongs to the Hongshan culture and dates backs over 5,000 years. . In historic recordings Liaoning first rose to prominence when the area became the centre of the Liao Dynasty kingdom (辽朝 Liáo Cháo) or otherwise known as the Khitan (Qidan) Empire (契丹國) which existed from 907 to 1125 AD. The Liao dynasty was taken over by the Jurchen people to form the Jin Dynasty (1115–1234) which covered all of northern china before it's self being overrun by the Mongol empire of the Yuan Dynasty.

During the Ming Dynasty, the Jurchen people became divided into clans or tribes. Liaoning came under the Ming Chinese sphere of control. One of the tribal leaders, Nurhaci (1559-1626), broke form the Ming Empire and, uniting the dispirit Jurchen tribes, founded the Manchu ethnic group and the Later Jin Dynasty that would be known as Manchuria. Liaoning was the cradle form which the Manchu went on to conquer first the Mongols and the Ming China itself to start the Qing Dynasty. The three capitals of the Later Jin, , Liaoyang and Shenyang are within Liaoning. Shenyang maintained special status throughout the Qing Dynasty as a secondary capital complete with it's own Forbidden City.

The early twentieth century saw the collapse of the Qing Dynasty in China. Liaoning became the centre piece in a struggle between China, Russia and Japan. During the Russo-Japanese War of 1904-1905, many key battles took place in Liaoning. The 9-18 incident that started the first Sino-Japanese war occurred in 1932 in Shenyang. Liaoning quickly fell into Japanese hands along with much of north east China. The Japanese founded the puppet state of Manchuko which included Liaoning. It was during the Russian and Japanese occupations that the area was first developed for modern industry.

With the founding of the People's Republic of China, Liaoning became a centre of heavy industrial development. Coal, iron, oil and steel are produced here in large quantities. Many cities in the area developed a reputation dirt and pollution. A reputation they are now trying to shake off.

Central Liaoning's wide flat plains made it well suited to modern farming methods so Liaoning was one of the few areas of China where collectivization works and the province was often cited as an example for the rest of the country to follow. The communist national hero, Lei Feng, hailed from Fushun city in Liaoning.

People and Culture

The population of Liaoning is mostly Han Chinese with minorities of Manchus, Mongols, Hui, Koreans and Xibe.

Ethnic groups in Liaoning, 2000 census
Nationality Population Percentage
Han Chinese 35,105,991 83.94%
Manchu 5,385,287 12.88%
Mongol 669,972 1.60%
Hui 264,407 0.632%
Koreans 241,052 0.576%
Xibe 132,615 0.317%

Excludes members of the People's Liberation Army in active service.
Source: Department of Population, Social, Science and Technology Statistics of the National Bureau of Statistics of China (国家统计局人口和社会科技统计司) and Department of Economic Development of the State Ethnic Affairs Commission of China (国家民族事务委员会经济发展司), eds. Tabulation on Nationalities of 2000 Population Census of China (《2000年人口普查中国民族人口资料》). 2 vols. Beijing: Nationalities Publishing House (民族出版社), 2003. (ISBN 7-105-05425-5)

Cusine

Liao Cuisine (Liaochi) form Liaoning is one of the eight famous cuisines of China. This cooking style is typically strong in flavour and heavily spiced but not hot. Chinese dumplings (Jiaozi) and noodles form the staple foods of the area. Laioning has a large and growing Korean population and so Korean style food is readily available. Korean BBQ restaurants provide an interesting meal. Hot coals are placed in the centre of the table and diners grill their food, consisting mainly of meat, themselves.

The coastal areas of Liaoning are famous for their sea food. Hairy armed crabs area a local delicacy as are Sea Cucumbers. Fresh water fish also play a big role in local cuisine. The central area of Liaoning is a big fruit producer and the city of Anshan is famous for its Nangua Pears, much of which are exported to Korea.

Muslim restaurants serving food from Xinjiang Region of north west China may serve Halal food and many supermarkets have Halal sections or service counters. Vegetarian food is difficult to find. Although tofu (Dofu) is common dish in this area, it and other vegetable dishes are often cooked with meat fat or stock. As for sushir zhewhen ordering vegetarian foods.

There are several beer (pijiu) producers in Liaoning with many cities having their own brands. The traditional spirit is Baijiu, a colourless drink that is generally 45% volume or above. Locals will often miss translate Baijiu as white wine or just simply wine. Care must be taken when offered wine to distinguish between Baijiu and grape wines (putao jiu).

Industry

Liaoning has the largest economy of North Eastern China. Its nominal GDP for 2008 was 1.346 trillion yuan (ca. US$194 billion) making it the 8th largest in China. Its per capita GDP was 31,259 yuan (US$4,500). Among the three provinces of Northeast China, Liaoning is the largest in terms of GDP.

Leading industries include petrochemicals, metallurgy, electronics telecommunications, and machinery. On a national level, Liaoning is a major producer of pig iron, steel and metal-cutting machine tools, all of whose production rank among the top three in the nation. Liaoning is one of the most important raw materials production bases in China. Industries such as mining, quarrying, smelting and pressing of ferrous metals, petroleum and natural gas extraction, are all of great significance.

Meanwhile, Liaoning is an important production base of equipment and machinery manufacturing, with Shenyang and Dalian being the industrial centers. Enterprises such as Shenyang Jinbei Co. Ltd., Daxian Group Co. Ltd., and Shenyang Machine Tool Co. Ltd., are leaders in their sectors. The province’s light industry mainly focuses on textiles and clothing industries which include cotton and wool spinning, chemical fiber production, knitting, silk production, and the manufacturing of both garments and textile machinery.

In 2008, its tertiary industry accounted for 34.5 percent of total GDP. In the future, Liaoning will continue its efforts to restructure large and medium-sized state enterprises. Meanwhile, the province will concentrate in developing its four pillar industries – petrochemicals, metallurgy, machinery and electronics.

Agriculture

Main agricultural products of Liaoning include maize, sorghum, and soybeans. The region around Dalian produces three-quarters of China's exported apples and peaches. Cotton is also produced.

Liaoning's fruits include apples from Dalian and Yingkou, golden peaches from Dalian, pears from Beizhen of Jinzhou, white pears from Huludao and Suizhong, and apricots and plums from Gushan of Dandong.

Mining

Liaoning has the most iron, magnesite, diamond, and boron deposits among all province-level subdivisions of China. Liaoning is also an important source of petroleum and natural gas. Salt is produced along the coast.

Industry

Liaoning is one of China's most important industrial bases, covering a wide range of industries, such as machinery, electronics, metal refining, petroleum, chemical industries, construction materials, coal, and so on.

The sea off Dalian abounds with quality seafood, such as abalone, sea cucumbers, scallops, prawns, crabs, and sea urchins. The big fish of Dandong, the jellyfish of Yingkou, and the clams of Panjin are known worldwide for their good tastes right from the sea and in products made in Liaoning for export domestically and internationally.

Trade

The cities of Dalian and Yingkou have been developed as major ports and economic gateways to all of northeast China.

Geography

It is possible to think of Liaoning as three approximate geographical regions: the highlands in the west, plains in the middle, and hills in the east. The highlands in the west are dominated by the Nulu'erhu Mountains, which roughly follow the border between Liaoning and Inner Mongolia. The entire region is dominated by low hills.

The central part of Liaoning consists of the watersheds of rivers such as the Liao, Daliao, and their tributaries. This region is mostly flat and at low altitudes. The eastern part of Liaoning is dominated by the Changbai Shan and Qianshan mountain ranges, which extend into the sea to along the length of the Liaodong Peninsula. The highest point in Liaoning, Mount Huabozi (1336 m), is found in this region. Liaoning has a continental monsoon climate, and rainfall averages to about 440 to 1130 mm annually. Summer is rainy while the other seasons are dry.

Liaoning is composed of fourteen prefecture-level cities:

Map # Name Hanzi Hanyu Pinyin Type
Map of Liaoning province in China 1 Shenyang 沈阳 Shěnyáng Sub-provincial city
2 Dalian 大连 Dàlián Sub-provincial city
3 Anshan 鞍山 Ānshān Prefecture-level city
4 Benxi 本溪 Běnxī Prefecture-level city
5 Chaoyang 朝阳 Cháoyáng Prefecture-level city
6 Dandong 丹东 Dāndōng Prefecture-level city
7 Fushun 抚顺 Fǔshùn Prefecture-level city
8 Fuxin 阜新 Fùxīn Prefecture-level city
9 Huludao 葫芦岛 Húludǎo Prefecture-level city
10 Jinzhou 锦州 Jǐnzhōu Prefecture-level city
11 Liaoyang 辽阳 Liáoyáng Prefecture-level city
12 Panjin 盘锦 Pánjǐn Prefecture-level city
13 Tieling 铁岭 Tiělǐng Prefecture-level city
14 Yingkou 营口 Yíngkǒu Prefecture-level city

There are four public airports in Liaoning: Shenyang Taoxian International Airport (沈阳桃仙国际机场, airport code SHE); and Dalian Zhoushuizi International Airport (大连周水子国际机场); Jinzhou Airport and Dandong Airport. Jinzhou and Dondong only connect with Beijing and Shanghai-Pudong. Shenyang and Dalian are larger international airports. They have flights to and form many other Chinese cities as well as international routes to North and South Korea, Japan, and even some American and European connections.

Eight railways connected Liaoning's Shenyang with Beijing, Dalian, Changchun, Harbin and Fushun. New high speed bullet trains now run from Shenyang to Beijing cutting the journey time down to four and half hours. Shenyang is connected via the trans-mongolian railway to Inner Mongolia, Outer Mongolia and on to Russian Siberia.

The six lane Jingshen Expressway runs the 658 kilometres from Beijing to Shenyang. The Shensi Expressway connects Shenyang to Changchun.

Coaches connect Shenyang, Dalian, Anshan and Dandong to Beijing and other cities throughout the north east of China. A coach form Beijing to Shenyang will take around 7 to 8 hours.

Ferries from Incheon (South Korea), Shanghai, Weihai, Yantai and Tianjin connect to Dalian in the south of Liaoning.

It is possible to cross the border at Dandong between North Korea and China under certain circumstances.

News About Liaoning

Liaoning Mobile selects HP services for network operations
Liaoning Mobile, a division of China Mobile, has selected HP services to manage its network operations. Liaoning Mobile is deploying HP TeMIP, a fault-management service, and the HP Service Quality Management (SQM) service to assure high-quality ... »

HP Helps China's Liaoning Mobile Manage Its Network for Better Customer Experience
SINGAPORE--(Marketwire - Feb 6, 2012) - HP ( NYSE : HPQ) today announced that Liaoning Mobile, a fast-growing division of the telecommunications company China Mobile, has selected HP solutions and services to manage its network operations, ... »

Liaoning Mobile selects HP services for network operations
Liaoning Mobile, a division of China Mobile, has selected HP services to manage its network operations. Liaoning Mobile is deploying HP TeMIP, a fault-management service, and the HP Service Quality Management (SQM) service to assure high-quality ... »

HP Helps China's Liaoning Mobile Manage Its Network for Better Customer Experience
SINGAPORE--(Marketwire - Feb 6, 2012) - HP ( NYSE : HPQ) today announced that Liaoning Mobile, a fast-growing division of the telecommunications company China Mobile, has selected HP solutions and services to manage its network operations, ... »

Fireworks Illuminate Night Sky of Dalian
Fireworks exploded above Xinghai Square of Dalian City, northeast China's Liaoning Province, on January 24th, 2012, to celebrate the Chinese Lunar New Year, which fell on January 23rd this year. The theme of this year's musical fireworks festival was ... »

Iron ore price to rise in Northeast China Liaoning
In Western Liaoning, mainstream quotation for 66% fines rose to CNY 810 to CNY 830. Transaction remained thin as traders and part beneficiation plants were unwilling to sell at current price level. Cargos delivered to Lingyuan Steel remained few even ... »

HP Helps China's Liaoning Mobile Manage Its Network for Better Customer Experience
SINGAPORE, Feb 06, 2012 (MARKETWIRE via COMTEX) -- HP /quotes/zigman/229301/quotes/nls/hpq HPQ -1.07% today announced that Liaoning Mobile, a fast-growing division of the telecommunications company China Mobile, has selected HP solutions and services ... »

China gripped by unusual cold spell
In Shenyang, Liaoning province, the unusual cold has driven up the number of patients with colds and respiratory complaints by at least 30 percent in the past week, said Wang Lijie, a doctor at Shengjing Hospital. Li Danyang, a 30-year-old Shenyang ... »

Chinese city exports $16 mln worth of fruit to N.Korea yearly
About 10000 tons of fruit have been exported every year to North Korea via the Chinese city of Dandong in Liaoning Province, which borders the North at the estuary of the Yalu River. Fruit imports for the North`s elite have reportedly posted ... »

China's heaviest new born baby weighs 7.04 kgs
... as that she had a much bigger belly than other pregnant women. The largest newborn baby on the Guinness World Records was a 10.1-kg Italian baby born in 1955 and the former national record holder was a 7-kilogram baby born in 2008 in Liaoning Province. »

Benxi Steel auto sheet sales volume up by 5pct in 2011
Liaoning Province based Chinese steelmaker Benxi Iron and Steel Company has announced that in 2011 its sales volume of steel sheet for the automotive industry registered 5.3% YoY increase covering supplies of cold rolled and galvanized auto sheet to a ... »

Police solve armed robbery case in NE China
4, 2012 shows the scene where police arrested suspects of an armed robbery case, which has been under police control, in Shenyang, northeast China's Liaoning Province. Policemen have solved the Feb. 3 armed robbery and homicide case in Shenyang, ... »

Sea ice off northern China disrupts aquaculture
Two tourists watch the ice on the Bohai Sea in Dalian, northeast China's Liaoning Province, Feb. 1, 2012. The National Marine Environmental Forecasting Center issued a sea ice blue alert recently. [Xinhua] Many seashells and sea cucumbers had died from ... »

Police shoot armed robber
By Wu Yong and Liu Ce (China Daily) SHENYANG - Police shot dead an armed robbery suspect after he opened fire on arresting officers on Saturday evening in Shenyang, capital of Liaoning province, police said on Sunday. The suspect, Jiang Haitao, ... »China Daily

Heffernan to make Glory debut
Heffernan, who played for Liaoning Hongyun in the Chinese Super League last season, joined Glory at the start of the year but was unavailable until the transfer window opened on January 17. Before he had the chance to play, though, he was forced out of ... »

Man shot, robbed
The 47-year-old victim surnamed Wen is receiving treatment at a hospital in Shenyang City, capital of Liaoning Province. Police said he was shot in the head in front of his home and that the attacker took the cash in his bag at 9:50am on Friday. »

Dandong – A peep into North Korea, China,
Those were the orders barked by my otherwise affable guide as we neared North Korean waters near Dandong in China's North-eastern Liaoning Province. An entire tourism industry had sprung up due to Dandong's proximity to the North Korean city of Sinuiju ... »

Ailing Philippine Captain Airlifted to China Hospital
The captain was suffering from an acute stomachache and breathing difficulties when his vessel was cruising in seawater off Dalian, a port city in northeast China's Liaoning Province, Ministry of Transport's Beihai Rescue Bureau said in a press release ... »

Liaoning iron ore prices rose after Chinese New Year
In Western Liaoning, mainstream quotation for 66% fines stood at CNY 790 to CNY 810. Transaction remained thin as most participants just went back from Chinese New Year festival recess and hesitation remained strong. Lingyuan Steel raised its purchase ... »

Anshan Steel expects net loss of RMB 2.151 billion for 2011
Liaoning Province based Chinese steelmaker Anshan Iron and Steel Group has announced its preliminary financial results for 2011. Accordingly, in 2011 Anshan Steel incurred an estimated net loss of CNY 2.151 billion based on its preliminary data. »

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