The City
Located at the southern tip of Liaoning province’s Liaodong peninsula, the port city of Dalian is popular with both local and foreign tourists for its beautiful beaches.
What to see
Because of its history under Russian occupation from 1898 to 1905, some Gothic-style Russian architecture still remains in the city. This is prominent on 俄罗斯风情街 èluósī fēngqíng jiē, or ‘Russian Street’.
Of course, you can’t miss visiting the many beaches of Dalian. Particularly popular with Russian, Japanese and South Korean tourists, there are several to choose from. A few of the most well-known are Jinshitan (Golden Pebble Beach), Bangchuidao Island Beach and Tiger Beach.
What to do
Visit the People’s Square in the evening to see the fountains put on a musical show, ride the giant Ferris wheel and cable cars in Labor Park, and visit Dalian Forest Zoo.
If you’re around between July and August, you might be lucky enough to catch the 10-day-long Dalian Beer Festival. And during the spring, you can enjoy the beautiful cherry blossoms blooming in parks.
What to eat
Being so close to the sea, naturally you can’t miss enjoying fresh seafood. Think stir-fried prawns, steamed sea bream, abalone and lots more.
As well as Russian architecture, you can also find restaurants serving Russian cuisine. So, you could be enjoying Chinese jiaozi dumplings at one restaurant, and Russian pierogi dumplings at another!
Did You Know?
The sweet-smelling flowers of the Locust Tree are much-loved by the people of Dalian, but they were replaced as Dalian’s city flower by the Chinese rose because the trees themselves are so fragile.
Tours
Combine your one-on-one classes with exciting tours accompanied by your teacher in Dalian. This is your opportunity to experience the city with a local while improving your Chinese skills.
Each tour has a five-hour duration and you can customise it as you wish, choosing where to visit and counting on your teacher’s help to decide the best itinerary for the day.
Our teachers have selected interesting places they would love to show you around. Here are their suggestions for a one-day tour in Dalian.
Dalian History Tour
- Japan-Russia Prison Site of Port Arthur
- Qing Army Office of Beiyang Navy
- Lushun Port Arthur
- Lushun Museum
Dalian Highlight Tour
- Dalian Shell Museum
- Russian Street
- Vintage Tram Ride
- Qingnixiang Snack Street
Dalian City Tour
- Dalian Laodong Park
- Qingniwa Bridge Shopping Area
- Japanese Street
- Dalian Botanical Garden
Volunteering
Would you like to make a difference while visiting Dalian?
We’ve partnered with organisations that will offer you the opportunity to volunteer in a range of activities, from teaching English to supporting disadvantaged children. This unique experience will allow you to have a positive impact while learning more about Chinese culture and practising the language.
Local Partners
Articles
Dalian Aina Autism Service Centre
About Aina
Dalian Aina Autism Service Centre was registered as a private non-enterprise grade 5A social organisation in 2014 and became a charitable organisation in 2018. It provides care, support, guidance and advice to people with autism and their families. Aina means love and acceptance.
Aina’s Values
No one is different and should be treated differently. Everyone is special and valuable who deserves love and care.
Aina’s Mission
Promoting a more equal social environment for autistic people and help them make contributions to society and gain independence.
How you can help at Aina
* Accompanying autistic people to engage in sports such as volleyball, basketball and other physical activities.
* Accompanying autistic people to carry out painting, handicraft and other hands-on activities.
* Teaching fun English and English songs to autistic people as well as providing other assistant teachings.
