Zhaoyang

Chaoyang, Liaoning is an underrated historic gem of an ancient city. As the birthplace of Hongshan culture and the “Ancient Capital of the Three Yan,” it not only has deep cultural heritage, but also highly photogenic natural scenery. Prices are friendly, making it especially suitable for a relaxing weekend or short-holiday getaway.

Suggested Itinerary (2 Days, 1 Night)

• Day 1: Urban Culture and Local Life
  • Morning: Arrive in Chaoyang and head to Chaoyang Museum (free, ID card required) to see Hongshan culture and Three Yan history. Focus on the clay goddess head and the C-shaped jade dragon.

• Afternoon: Visit the North Pagoda Museum (to see the Buddhist relics and the Seven-Treasure Pagoda), then stroll along Murong Street to open fossil blind boxes. In the evening, go to South Pagoda Square to enjoy the night views where ancient and modern elements blend.

• Evening: Go to Longshan Night Market for grilled skewers and bingfen, or find an old local restaurant to try Chaoyang stewed sausage and steamed pork-rib dumplings.

• Day 2: Natural Wonders and Prehistoric Exploration
  • Morning: Head to Fenghuang Mountain for a hike. The forest coverage is extremely high; you can take a sightseeing bus up the mountain and hike down, with panoramic views over the whole city.

• Afternoon: Tour the Bird Fossil National Geopark, visit the Paleontological Fossil Museum and the geological corridor, and try a fossil-digging experience. It is great for family-friendly science learning.

• Dusk: Return home with a full harvest of memories.

Must-Visit Attractions

Chaoyang’s attractions are mainly concentrated in the urban area and nearby Lingyuan City, where culture and nature intertwine. These are the places most worth visiting:

• Chaoyang Museum: Free admission. Its three floors of exhibition halls span thousands of years of history, and the cultural relics of Hongshan culture and the Ancient Capital of the Three Yan are truly impressive. It is not crowded, so the experience is pleasant.
• Chaoyang North Pagoda and South Pagoda: Known as the first pagoda of Northeast China, the two pagodas face each other from afar. After the lights come on at night, photos here have a strong sense of historical depth.
• Fenghuang Mountain: A famous Buddhist mountain in Northeast China, with dense forests and gentle mountain paths. It is suitable for a relaxed hike, and the summit offers excellent views.
• Bird Fossil National Geopark: The place that witnessed the takeoff of the “world’s first bird.” The geological corridor and fossil museum are very impressive.
• Murong Street: An antique-style commercial street, 200 meters long, centered on fossils and jade. You can enjoy the fun of cracking open fossil blind boxes.

Local Food Guide

Chaoyang’s food combines the hearty style of Northeast China with distinctive local flavors. Be sure to try these specialties:

Practical Transport and Pitfall-Avoidance Tips

• Transport: Urban attractions are concentrated, so walking or taking taxis is enough. If you are going to the Bird Fossil Park or Lingyuan City, driving yourself or hiring a car is recommended. High-speed rail goes directly to Liaoning Chaoyang Station.
• Accommodation: Staying near the North Pagoda or Youshun Temple is recommended, as dining, sightseeing, and getting around are all convenient. Most attractions are within walking distance.
• Pitfall Reminders: The Bird Fossil Park is quite large, so renting an electric scooter or taking a sightseeing bus is recommended. For fossil blind boxes on Murong Street, it is not recommended to buy ones that are too cheap; those around 50 yuan offer better value. Some museums are closed on Mondays, so be sure to confirm opening hours before your trip.