Cities in Liaoning

Introduction

Liaoning is located in Northeast China, bordering the Yellow Sea and Bohai Sea, and neighboring Inner Mongolia and Jilin. The province includes plains, coastline, hills, and river basins shaped by maritime influence. Liaoning is known for its role in heavy industry, ports, aerospace technology, higher education, and Qing Dynasty heritage, placing it among China’s historically significant gateway regions.

Shenyang is located in central Liaoning on the Liaodong Plain. The city has a population of about 9 million and sits around 650 km from Beijing. It is often described as a major industrial and administrative center with strong transportation connections.

Shenyang is historically linked to the early Qing Dynasty, making it an important cultural reference point. The city later developed into one of China’s major hubs for heavy industry, machinery, aviation, and metallurgy. Academic institutions, especially Northeastern University, contribute to scientific research in engineering and material science. The urban layout includes preserved heritage areas as well as large industrial and administrative districts.

📍 Main places to visit include Mukden Palace, Zhaoling Tomb, Shenyang Imperial Museum, 9.18 Historical Museum, Beiling Park, and Qipan Mountain Scenic Area.

Shenyang (沈阳)

Dalian (大连)

Dalian is situated in the southern coastal area of Liaoning on the tip of the Liaodong Peninsula. Its population is around 6 million, and the distance to Shenyang is approximately 360 km. The city is known for its coastal environment and international role.

Dalian has a strong connection to shipping, logistics, finance, petrochemicals, and software development. It also played a role in regional history due to its strategic port location, which shaped architecture, education, and cultural identity. The city hosts several research institutions and universities contributing to marine science and digital industry development.

📍 Main places to visit include Xinghai Square, Tiger Beach Ocean Park, Dalian Forest Zoo, Bangchuidao Scenic Area, and Lushun Museum.

Anshan is located in the southern part of the province near low mountain ranges and plains. The population is close to 3 million and the city is about 90 km from Shenyang. It is known as an industrial center with strong material production.

The city is recognized for its role in the steel industry, supported by Ansteel Group, one of the country’s major producers. Anshan also has sites connected to geology and spirituality, including sacred mountain landscapes and displays of mineral formations. Science and applied industry research are part of the city’s academic presence.

📍 Main places to visit include Qianshan National Park, Anshan Jade Buddha Palace, Anshan Museum, Dongshan Scenic Area, and Iron and Steel History Exhibition Center.

Anshan (鞍山)

Fushun (抚顺)

Fushun is located northeast of Shenyang near hilly terrain and river valleys. The population is close to 2 million, and the distance to Shenyang is around 45 km.

The city is linked to energy production and mining, with several heritage and education sites related to industrial development. It also has strong historical ties to the Manchu heritage, influencing its museums and cultural identity.

📍 Main places to visit include Hetuala City Site, Royal Tombs of the Qing Dynasty, Fushun Coal Museum, and Leifeng Memorial Hall.

Benxi (本溪)

Benxi is located in eastern Liaoning near forested mountain areas. The city has a population of around 1 million and is approximately 70 km from Shenyang. It is often seen as a natural and geological destination.

Benxi is known for its iron resources, manufacturing base, and protected natural environments. Research centers focus on ecology and geology, reflecting the region’s landscape.

📍 Main places to visit include Benxi Water Cave National Park, Laobiangou Scenic Area, Wunü Mountain, and Benxi Geological Museum.

Liaoyang (辽阳)

Liaoyang is located in southern Liaoning on a plain area between major transportation routes. The population is around 1 million, and the distance to Shenyang is approximately 60 km.

The city holds significance for historical heritage and industry, with archaeological findings and preserved structures that reflect regional development over centuries. Light manufacturing and chemical industries support the modern economy.

📍 Main places to visit include Guangyou Temple, Baita Park, Liaoyang Museum, and Tanghe River Scenic Belt.

Jinzhou (锦州)

Jinzhou is located in the western part of the province near coastal and inland transition zones. The city has a population of about 2 million and is roughly 220 km from Shenyang.

It is known for manufacturing, logistics, and regional trade, with several research institutions focusing on applied technologies and engineering. The city also contains preserved historical sites related to earlier dynastic periods.

📍 Main places to visit include Bijia Mountain, Yiwulü Mountain Scenic Area, Jinzhou Ancient City Museum, and Linghe River Park.