Shenyang City, abbreviated as "Shen", historically known as "Shengjing" and "Fengtian", is the capital of Liaoning Province.
This city holds a unique dual identity: it was both the capital of the Qing Dynasty before its entry into Shanhai Pass, revered as "the birthplace of a dynasty, the capital of two emperors"; and, due to its significant industrial status in the early days of the New China, it was dubbed the "Eldest Son of the Republic". The imperial aura and the industrial soul together form the profound foundation of this central city in Northeast China.
Shenyang is located in the southern part of the vast Northeast Plain, with the Hun River flowing through the city. The flat terrain and fertile black soil provide excellent conditions for agricultural and industrial development here. It has a temperate semi-humid continental climate, with distinct seasons, long and cold winters, and short, hot summers. The distinct climate characteristics have also shaped the local people's straightforward and optimistic personalities.
Shenyang's most central historical and cultural heritage is the Shenyang Imperial Palace, one of China's only two major ancient palace complexes, coexisting with the Forbidden City in Beijing. This palace, built by Nurhaci and Huang Taiji, the founding emperors of the Qing Dynasty, is rich in Manchu characteristics and is a World Cultural Heritage site. Additionally, the Qing Zhaoling and Qing Fuling imperial tombs outside the Shanhai Pass also collectively bear witness to that founding history. The "September 18th" Historical Museum, in a solemn manner, records a turning point in modern Chinese history.
Shenyang is a typical representative of Northeast Chinese culture. The people here are straightforward, hospitable, and have a humorous and infectious way of speaking. The food culture is also hearty and bold. In the cold winter, a steaming pot of sauerkraut stew with vermicelli, or on a summer night, a few friends gathering to feast on BBQ and drink beer, are all quintessential scenes of local life.
As the "Eldest Son of the Republic", Shenyang is one of China's most important heavy industrial bases, especially with a strong foundation in equipment manufacturing. Although it has experienced growing pains during its transformation period, Shenyang is now undergoing a profound industrial upgrade. It is striving to move from traditional "manufacturing" to high-end "intelligent manufacturing", continuously making efforts in emerging fields such as aerospace and robotics, allowing this old industrial base to regain its vitality in the new era.
What is there to do in Shenyang China?
The best time to visit Shenyang is from May to June in spring and from September to October in autumn.
In late spring and early summer, Shenyang's weather is mild and sunny, perfect for visiting various historical sites and parks.
Autumn brings clear skies, crisp air, and pleasant weather, making it an excellent time to enjoy the city's scenery and experience the autumn colors of Northeast China.
It is advisable to avoid the severe cold of winter and the intense heat of summer for a more comfortable travel experience.
Nurhaci moved the Later Jin capital from Liaoyang to Shenyang and renamed it "Shengjing", marking the establishment of Shenyang's core status as the birthplace of the Qing Dynasty.
The Japanese Kwantung Army launched the "September 18th Incident" here, marking the beginning of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and profoundly impacting modern Chinese history.
During the "First Five-Year Plan", Shenyang became the core of national heavy industry construction, earning the title "Eldest Son of the Republic" and laying the foundation for modern Chinese industry.
UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Shenyang
Part of the "Imperial Palaces of the Ming and Qing Dynasties in Beijing and Shenyang" World Cultural Heritage site, it is one of China's two most complete existing ancient palace complexes and served as the imperial palace before the Qing Dynasty entered Shanhai Pass.
Part of the "Imperial Tombs of the Ming and Qing Dynasties" World Cultural Heritage site, these are the mausoleums of Nurhaci (Qing Taizu) and Huang Taiji (Qing Taizong) respectively, with an architectural style that blends Manchu, Han, and Mongolian cultural characteristics.
Explore Shenyang's rich intangible cultural heritage and learn about traditional crafts and cultural essence
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Originating in 1829, it is famous for its unique "bianxian" (sautéed filling) technique, where the meat filling is first stir-fried before being used, resulting in dumplings with a rich, fragrant, and non-greasy taste, representing Shenyang's culinary culture.
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One of China's five major traditional opera genres, popular in North China, Northeast China, and other regions. Its singing is fresh, lively, and unadorned, with performances rich in everyday life, deeply loved by the general public.
Transportation you must know when visiting Shenyang
Shenyang Taoxian International Airport is an important aviation hub in Northeast China, with Metro Line 2 offering direct access to the city center.
Airport shuttle bus routes cover major areas of the city, and the fare is approximately 17 Yuan.
Shenyang boasts three core railway stations: Shenyang Railway Station, Shenyang North Railway Station, and Shenyang South Railway Station, serving as an important railway hub connecting Northeast China with regions south of Shanhai Pass.
Taking high-speed rail to Beijing takes approximately 2.5 hours at the fastest.
Shenyang Metro currently operates 4 lines, covering major areas of the city.
Passengers can use the 'Shengjingtong' App, WeChat, or Alipay to scan codes for rides, with fares ranging from 2-7 Yuan.
Shenyang has over 200 bus routes, forming a comprehensive public transportation network.
Most routes cost 1-2 Yuan, supporting cash, Shengjingtong card, and mobile payments.
Shenyang taxi daytime starting fare is 10 Yuan (within 3 kilometers), and nighttime (22:00-6:00 the next day) starting fare is 11 Yuan.
The continuous rental unit price is 2.2 Yuan/km.
Shared bicycle services like Hellobike and Meituan are available in Shenyang.
The average cost is approximately 1.5 Yuan/30 minutes, making it a convenient option for short trips.
What to eat in Shenyang, you need to know
Laobian Dumplings
A time-honored Chinese brand with nearly 200 years of history; famous for its unique "bianxian" (sautéed filling) technique, resulting in delicious and juicy fillings; it is Shenyang's most representative culinary specialty.
Ma's Steamed Dumplings
A famous Muslim snack in Shenyang, first created in 1796; it features thin skin, generous filling, a pomegranate-like shape, and a fresh, fragrant taste.
Yang's Family Hanging Oven Cake
A traditional famous pastry with a unique making process; the finished product is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, with clear layers and an enticing aroma; often served with steamed egg cake.
White Pork with Blood Sausage
A traditional dish originating from the Manchu people, a characteristic specialty of Northeast China; the white pork is rich but not greasy, and the blood sausage is tender and smooth, offering a unique flavor when dipped in garlic sauce.