Liaoyang

Liaoyang is the “First City of Northeast China,” with more than 2,300 years of history. Its sights are highly concentrated and most are free, making it ideal for an easy one-day or two-day weekend trip from Shenyang or nearby cities.

Classic One-Day Route (Citywalk Version)

This route involves little backtracking, with walking plus short taxi rides, and is all about traveling through thousands of years of history:

• Morning: Start from Liaoyang Railway Station and walk to White Pagoda Park to see the tallest pagoda in Northeast China. Along the way, visit the Former Site of the South Manchuria Railway Library, then enter Guangyou Temple to experience the awe of this thousand-year-old monastery.

• Noon: Head into the city center for a popular dry pot meal or local specialty cold noodles to recharge.
• Afternoon: Visit Liaoyang Museum (including the Han-Wei Mural Hall and Folk Museum) to learn about Xiangping’s past and present; afterward, walk around the Cao Xueqin Memorial Hall and Wang Erlie Memorial Hall.

• Evening: Take a walk and enjoy the breeze along the Taizi River Scenic Belt, or climb Kuixing Tower for night views of the old city, bringing the day’s itinerary to a close.

Must-Visit Attractions

Liaoyang’s attractions are mainly concentrated in the urban area, and most are free, offering excellent value.

• White Pagoda Park: The Liao-dynasty White Pagoda is 71 meters tall and one of the tallest brick pagodas in Northeast China. The red walls, white pagoda, upturned eaves, and wind chimes make it very photogenic. The best photo spot is by the rockery pavilion on the east side of the park.
• Guangyou Temple: First built in the Eastern Han dynasty, it houses the world’s largest indoor wooden gilded seated Buddha. Incense offerings are very popular here, and from 10:30 to 13:00 at noon you can try a 10-yuan vegetarian meal.
• Liaoyang Museum: Converted from the Republican-era Peng Mansion, the building itself is also a cultural relic. Its signature treasure is the “Wang Erlie Hundred Longevity Screen.” Next door are the Han-Wei Mural Hall and Folk Museum. Entry is free with an ID card (closed on Mondays).
• Dongjing City Ruins Park: The remains of the capital city built when Nurhaci established his capital in Liaoyang. Tianyou Gate and sections of rammed-earth city wall still survive, making it a good walk for those who enjoy history and nostalgia.

If you have more time, you can also go to Gongchangling Hot Spring Resort for a hot spring soak, or visit Liaoyang Zoo to hold a lion cub for photos.

Must-Try Food and Snacks

When in Liaoyang, be sure to try authentic Northeastern flavors and local specialty snacks. Prices are very budget-friendly.

In addition, West Culture Comprehensive Market (No. 9 Middle School Market) is packed with affordable snacks, such as dorayaki, spicy noodles, and stir-fried ice milk, so you can snack your way through.

Transport and Accommodation Tips

• Transport: Liaoyang’s urban area is small and has no subway, but taxis start at 6 yuan and buses cost 1-2 yuan. Most attractions can be reached on foot or by shared bike. The high-speed train from Shenyang to Liaoyang takes just over 20 minutes, making it very convenient.
• Accommodation: Staying in Baita District or near the railway station is recommended. For just over 100 yuan, you can find a decent hotel with convenient access to attractions and dining.