Introduction
What to do
Where to eat
When to visit
How to get there
Where to stay
Hiring a car
Local costs

Shenyang travel guide

Shenyang Tourism | Shenyang Guide

You're Going to Love Shenyang

One of the centers of the Qing Dynasty, Shenyang's glorious history is a major attraction, but there's more to Liaoning's capital than tombs and palaces. From shopping to sports, Shenyang is a dynamic place that travelers will adore.

Top 5 Reasons to Visit Shenyang

1. The UNESCO-Listed Imperial Palace

Built in the 17th century, the Mukden Palace is one of China's historical jewels, with gorgeous carvings, elegant architecture, and dazzling golden decorations.

2. Fascinating Imperial Tombs

Along with the Palace, Shenyang is also the resting place for several Qing emperors, and the Fuling and Zhaoling tombs are a must-see.

3. Excellent Museums

The sights are backed up by a number of great museums, including the 9.18 Memorial Museum (dealing with the Japanese invasion of Manchuria) and the Liaoning Province Museum, with a wonderful Chinese art collection.

4. Ski Resorts Are Easily Accessible

Liaoning is China's winter sports hub, and you can rent skis, buy cable car tickets, and access the slopes at massive resorts like Northeast Asia Ski Resort for just ¥135 - so it's cheap, too.

5. Fine Food and Drink

Shenyang is a gourmet destination, with its delicious dumplings, chicken dishes, and delectable cakes - which you can wash down with a bottle of the local Baiju wine.

1. The UNESCO-Listed Imperial Palace

Built in the 17th century, the Mukden Palace is one of China's historical jewels, with gorgeous carvings, elegant architecture, and dazzling golden decorations.

2. Fascinating Imperial Tombs

Along with the Palace, Shenyang is also the resting place for several Qing emperors, and the Fuling and Zhaoling tombs are a must-see.

3. Excellent Museums

The sights are backed up by a number of great museums, including the 9.18 Memorial Museum (dealing with the Japanese invasion of Manchuria) and the Liaoning Province Museum, with a wonderful Chinese art collection.

4. Ski Resorts Are Easily Accessible

Liaoning is China's winter sports hub, and you can rent skis, buy cable car tickets, and access the slopes at massive resorts like Northeast Asia Ski Resort for just ¥135 - so it's cheap, too.

5. Fine Food and Drink

Shenyang is a gourmet destination, with its delicious dumplings, chicken dishes, and delectable cakes - which you can wash down with a bottle of the local Baiju wine.

What to do in Shenyang

1. Just The Qing For A Day Of Sightseeing

In the 17th century, the rulers of Shenyang conquered all of China. Well, conquered is a bit of a stretch, but the Manchus (or Qing) of the region did take over in Beijing from the Ming. This beautiful palace in central Shenyang became the imperial court for 20 years in the early 17th century, and has the feel of an empire-straddling power center. That may be because the Qing built it to resemble Beijing's Forbidden City. In any case, touring this important historical complex is a must for all visitors.

2. Bu-Rial Deal For History Fans

Also known as the Zhao Mausoleum, this is the final resting place of the second Qing emperor: Huang Taji. Situated in Beiling Park in Huanggu, north of central Shenyang, the tomb was built in a 3 million square meter park, with a mile long avenue leading up to the tomb itself. So they didn't spare any expense when honoring the emperor. Highlights include the row of mythical animal statues that line the tomb's approach, the altar and its portraits of poor old Huang Taji, and Lóng'ēn Hall, with its ornate flower carvings.

3. Hours Of Absorbing Ancient Exhibits To Explore

South of the Hunhe River, you'll come across this excellent provincial museum, which is dedicated to Liáoníng's turbulent, and historically pivotal past. Obviously, much of the space is devoted to the rise and era of the Manchus between 1600 and 1900, but there's much more to northeastern China than one dynasty. Ancient galleries cast valuable light on the Hongshan and Xinie peoples, complete with excavated weapons and tools. A good counterpart is the 18th September Museum, which commemorates the "Mukden Incident" when Japan launched it's invasion of China.

4. Naturally The Most Peaceful Place In Town

For some pure tranquility and a chance to explore the pleasures of nature, Shenyang's Botanical Garden makes a great place to spend the afternoon. With more than 1,700 lovingly tended species on display, it provides a good showcase of the region's native plants, covering 467 acres. Even better, it's all been landscaped in consummate Chinese fashion, with lakes, artfully positioned groves of trees, waterfalls, and decorative bridges, so keep your camera handy at all times. You'll find the gardens around 6 miles east of the city center.

5. Brrr-Illiant Fun For Winter Fans

Or, to give its proper name, "the Qipanshan Scenic Area." Gathered around the Qipanshan Reservoir around 12 miles east of central Shenyang, this recreational reserve offers varied scenery and great hiking opportunities in the summer. However, it's winter when Qipanshan really comes into its own, when it hosts Shenyang's world-famous International Ice and Snow Festival. Expect ice skating on the frozen reservoir, lavish ice sculptures such as reconstructed palaces, and even activities like ice golf, along with skiing in the park's Alpine Area.

1. Just The Qing For A Day Of Sightseeing

In the 17th century, the rulers of Shenyang conquered all of China. Well, conquered is a bit of a stretch, but the Manchus (or Qing) of the region did take over in Beijing from the Ming. This beautiful palace in central Shenyang became the imperial court for 20 years in the early 17th century, and has the feel of an empire-straddling power center. That may be because the Qing built it to resemble Beijing's Forbidden City. In any case, touring this important historical complex is a must for all visitors.

2. Bu-Rial Deal For History Fans

Also known as the Zhao Mausoleum, this is the final resting place of the second Qing emperor: Huang Taji. Situated in Beiling Park in Huanggu, north of central Shenyang, the tomb was built in a 3 million square meter park, with a mile long avenue leading up to the tomb itself. So they didn't spare any expense when honoring the emperor. Highlights include the row of mythical animal statues that line the tomb's approach, the altar and its portraits of poor old Huang Taji, and Lóng'ēn Hall, with its ornate flower carvings.

3. Hours Of Absorbing Ancient Exhibits To Explore

South of the Hunhe River, you'll come across this excellent provincial museum, which is dedicated to Liáoníng's turbulent, and historically pivotal past. Obviously, much of the space is devoted to the rise and era of the Manchus between 1600 and 1900, but there's much more to northeastern China than one dynasty. Ancient galleries cast valuable light on the Hongshan and Xinie peoples, complete with excavated weapons and tools. A good counterpart is the 18th September Museum, which commemorates the "Mukden Incident" when Japan launched it's invasion of China.

4. Naturally The Most Peaceful Place In Town

For some pure tranquility and a chance to explore the pleasures of nature, Shenyang's Botanical Garden makes a great place to spend the afternoon. With more than 1,700 lovingly tended species on display, it provides a good showcase of the region's native plants, covering 467 acres. Even better, it's all been landscaped in consummate Chinese fashion, with lakes, artfully positioned groves of trees, waterfalls, and decorative bridges, so keep your camera handy at all times. You'll find the gardens around 6 miles east of the city center.

5. Brrr-Illiant Fun For Winter Fans

Or, to give its proper name, "the Qipanshan Scenic Area." Gathered around the Qipanshan Reservoir around 12 miles east of central Shenyang, this recreational reserve offers varied scenery and great hiking opportunities in the summer. However, it's winter when Qipanshan really comes into its own, when it hosts Shenyang's world-famous International Ice and Snow Festival. Expect ice skating on the frozen reservoir, lavish ice sculptures such as reconstructed palaces, and even activities like ice golf, along with skiing in the park's Alpine Area.

1. Just The Qing For A Day Of Sightseeing

In the 17th century, the rulers of Shenyang conquered all of China. Well, conquered is a bit of a stretch, but the Manchus (or Qing) of the region did take over in Beijing from the Ming. This beautiful palace in central Shenyang became the imperial court for 20 years in the early 17th century, and has the feel of an empire-straddling power center. That may be because the Qing built it to resemble Beijing's Forbidden City. In any case, touring this important historical complex is a must for all visitors.

2. Bu-Rial Deal For History Fans

Also known as the Zhao Mausoleum, this is the final resting place of the second Qing emperor: Huang Taji. Situated in Beiling Park in Huanggu, north of central Shenyang, the tomb was built in a 3 million square meter park, with a mile long avenue leading up to the tomb itself. So they didn't spare any expense when honoring the emperor. Highlights include the row of mythical animal statues that line the tomb's approach, the altar and its portraits of poor old Huang Taji, and Lóng'ēn Hall, with its ornate flower carvings.

3. Hours Of Absorbing Ancient Exhibits To Explore

South of the Hunhe River, you'll come across this excellent provincial museum, which is dedicated to Liáoníng's turbulent, and historically pivotal past. Obviously, much of the space is devoted to the rise and era of the Manchus between 1600 and 1900, but there's much more to northeastern China than one dynasty. Ancient galleries cast valuable light on the Hongshan and Xinie peoples, complete with excavated weapons and tools. A good counterpart is the 18th September Museum, which commemorates the "Mukden Incident" when Japan launched it's invasion of China.

4. Naturally The Most Peaceful Place In Town

For some pure tranquility and a chance to explore the pleasures of nature, Shenyang's Botanical Garden makes a great place to spend the afternoon. With more than 1,700 lovingly tended species on display, it provides a good showcase of the region's native plants, covering 467 acres. Even better, it's all been landscaped in consummate Chinese fashion, with lakes, artfully positioned groves of trees, waterfalls, and decorative bridges, so keep your camera handy at all times. You'll find the gardens around 6 miles east of the city center.

5. Brrr-Illiant Fun For Winter Fans

Or, to give its proper name, "the Qipanshan Scenic Area." Gathered around the Qipanshan Reservoir around 12 miles east of central Shenyang, this recreational reserve offers varied scenery and great hiking opportunities in the summer. However, it's winter when Qipanshan really comes into its own, when it hosts Shenyang's world-famous International Ice and Snow Festival. Expect ice skating on the frozen reservoir, lavish ice sculptures such as reconstructed palaces, and even activities like ice golf, along with skiing in the park's Alpine Area.

Where to Eat in Shenyang

Head to MeiJin Hotpot for noodles, Lǎobiān Dumplings for a local delicacy, or Báiyù Chuànchéng for BBQ meat dishes. Prices should be around ¥25-30 per head.

When to visit Shenyang

Shenyang in March
Estimated hotel price
S$ 96
1 night at 3-star hotel
Shenyang in March
Estimated hotel price
S$ 96
1 night at 3-star hotel

For sightseers, April through October is a great time to go. The temperatures should be mild to warm, and most of the attractions will be open. However, skiers should visit from December to March.

Data provided by weatherbase
Temperatures
Temperatures
Data provided by weatherbase

How to Get to Shenyang

Plane

Shenyang Taoxian International Airport (SHE) is accessible from all over China. From there, airport shuttles take one hour and cost ¥15.50. Expect taxis to cost around ¥80.

Train

Trains from Beijing run into the North Station, and it's around an eight-hour journey from the capital to Shenyang.

Car

Those driving from Beijing need to take the G25, and then the G2511 into Shenyang. From Dalian, take the G15.

Bus

Beijing is about eight hours away by bus, and there are daily connections to major cities like Jilin, Dalian, and Harbin as well.

Plane

Shenyang Taoxian International Airport (SHE) is accessible from all over China. From there, airport shuttles take one hour and cost ¥15.50. Expect taxis to cost around ¥80.

Train

Trains from Beijing run into the North Station, and it's around an eight-hour journey from the capital to Shenyang.

Car

Those driving from Beijing need to take the G25, and then the G2511 into Shenyang. From Dalian, take the G15.

Bus

Beijing is about eight hours away by bus, and there are daily connections to major cities like Jilin, Dalian, and Harbin as well.

Airports near Shenyang

SHEShenyang
AOGAnshan

Airlines serving Shenyang

Lufthansa
Good (7,198 reviews)
KLM
Good (1,372 reviews)
British Airways
Good (7,113 reviews)
Delta
Excellent (7,951 reviews)
Air France
Good (1,468 reviews)
United Airlines
Good (8,845 reviews)
Air Canada
Good (9,696 reviews)
Etihad Airways
Good (1,222 reviews)
Finnair
Good (1,312 reviews)
Singapore Airlines
Excellent (1,324 reviews)
China Eastern
Good (151 reviews)
Korean Air
Excellent (1,105 reviews)
Japan Airlines
Excellent (1,512 reviews)
China Southern
Good (103 reviews)
Air China
Good (89 reviews)
Qantas Airways
Good (876 reviews)
XiamenAir
Good (41 reviews)
American Airlines
Good (11,108 reviews)
Scoot
Good (305 reviews)
Air New Zealand
Excellent (494 reviews)
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Find flights to Shenyang

Where to stay in Shenyang

Taiyuan Jie - Shenyang's business and shopping center, Taiyuan Jie is the place to go for fine food and great souvenir bargains.

Popular Neighborhoods in Shenyang

Zhong Jie - Shenyang's other shopping hub, Zhong Jie is also the site of the Mukden Palace, so it's a must-visit neighborhood.

Jinlang Shangquan - located in southern Shenyang, Jinlang Shangquan is home to the superb Science Centrum and the Popular Science Park - one of the city's best family attractions.

Zhong Jie - Shenyang's other shopping hub, Zhong Jie is also the site of the Mukden Palace, so it's a must-visit neighborhood.
Jinlang Shangquan - located in southern Shenyang, Jinlang Shangquan is home to the superb Science Centrum and the Popular Science Park - one of the city's best family attractions.

Where to stay in popular areas of Shenyang

Most booked hotels in Shenyang

See all
Somerset Heping Shenyang
4 stars
Excellent (8.8, Excellent reviews)
S$ 73+
View
JEN Shenyang by Shangri-La
4 stars
Excellent (8.5, Excellent reviews)
S$ 71+
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Hilton Shenyang
4 stars
Excellent (8.2, Excellent reviews)
S$ 105+
View
Holiday Inn Express Shenyang Tawan
3 stars
Excellent (8.4, Excellent reviews)
S$ 43+
View

How to Get Around Shenyang

Public Transportation

Buses in Shenyang charge between ¥1 and ¥2, depending on the distance you need to travel. There are also two subway lines that criss-cross the center, and ticket prices range from ¥2 to ¥4.

Taxi

Shenyang's taxis tend to charge a meter drop of ¥8, followed by ¥3 per mile.

Car

You can rent a car in Shenyang from companies like Jinghong Car Renting, and prices start at around ¥35 per day.

Public Transportation

Buses in Shenyang charge between ¥1 and ¥2, depending on the distance you need to travel. There are also two subway lines that criss-cross the center, and ticket prices range from ¥2 to ¥4.

Taxi

Shenyang's taxis tend to charge a meter drop of ¥8, followed by ¥3 per mile.

Car

You can rent a car in Shenyang from companies like Jinghong Car Renting, and prices start at around ¥35 per day.

The Cost of Living in Shenyang

Shopping Streets

Zhong Jie and Taiyuan Jie are the two main shopping areas, and both are full of craft stores, electronics retailers, and street food vendors. Wu Ai Market is another place to look, particularly if you are shopping for apparel and accessories.

Groceries and Other

Supermarkets in Shenyang include Walmart and Carrefour, as well as local companies like Vanguard. Expect to pay around ¥50 for a gallon of milk.

Cheap meal
S$ 2.97
A pair of jeans
S$ 52.52
Single public transport ticket
S$ 0.18
Cappuccino
S$ 4.18

Everything you need to know for your stay in Shenyang

Other popular cities in Liaoning

Dalian

Shenyang Travel Guide - View the KAYAK Shenyang city guide for the best Shenyang travel tips. To help you organise your Shenyang trip ideas, this Shenyang visitors guide provides travel information and trip tips about how to get there, where to stay, what to do, where to eat and more.