Things to do in Shenyang

No. 1 of Family-friendly Attractions in Liaoning

Shenyang Imperial Palace

8.5

Shenyang · 13.5km from downtown

37.3k reviews

The Shenyang Imperial Palace is one of the two fully preserved palace complexes in China. It served as the imperial palace of the Later Jin before the dynasty entered the pass, and after the Qing dynasty moved its capital to Beijing, it was converted into the Shengjing Temporary Palace (also known as the Fengtian Temporary Palace). The palace houses a large collection of court artifacts left over from the former imperial palace, and precious treasures of the Qing court's old collection can be viewed in the various exhibition halls. The entire palace complex is divided into three routes based on architectural layout and construction sequence: the east route features the Dazheng Hall and the Ten Kings Pavilion built during Nurhaci's reign; the central route comprises the inner palace complex expanded during Emperor Taizong of Qing's reign, including the Daqing Gate, Chongzheng Hall, Fenghuang Tower, as well as the Qingning Palace, Guansui Palace, Yanqing Palace, and Yongfu Palace; the west route includes the Wensu Pavilion and other structures added during the Qianlong period. The Daqing Gate is the main gate of the Shenyang Imperial Palace, commonly known as the Wu Gate. It is a five-bay flush gable roof building, with the roof fully covered in glazed tiles and trimmed with green edges. The wall decorations feature protruding sea water and cloud dragon patterns along with various auspicious beasts, exquisitely crafted. The Chongzheng Hall, commonly known as the "Golden Throne Hall," is where Hong Taiji handled daily government affairs and received envoys. Inside the hall are displayed cultural relics such as a gold-lacquered cloud dragon screen, an openwork golden dragon throne, and gilt bronze luduan incense burners. Above the throne hangs a plaque inscribed with "Zhengda Guangming," written personally by Emperor Qianlong, modeled after the plaque written by Emperor Shunzhi in the Palace of Heavenly Purity in Beijing. The Dazheng Hall, commonly known as the "Octagonal Hall," was also called the "Great Hall" or "Dugong Hall" before the Qing entered the pass. It is an important palace built by Nurhaci and the main building on the east route. Before the Qing entered the pass, important ceremonies such as the emperor's enthronement, New Year's Day congratulations, and the Wanshou Festival banquets were held here. In ordinary times, it was used to convene meetings of the Deliberative Council of Princes and Ministers or to promulgate important edicts. Inside the hall are displayed cultural relics such as a golden dragon throne, a gold-lacquered screen, and cloisonné elephant-backed vases, as well as calligraphy left by Kangxi, Qianlong, Jiaqing, and Daoguang during their eastern tours to Shengjing. The Phoenix Tower is located north of the Chongzheng Hall, standing atop the elevated terrace of the inner court. The three-story tower features a hip-and-gable roof with surrounding corridors, covered in yellow glazed tiles with green trim along the edges. "Phoenix Tower at Dawn" and "Viewing the Pagoda from Phoenix Tower" are counted among the Eight Scenes of Shengjing. The tower houses a plaque inscribed with "Purple Mist from the East" in the imperial handwriting of Emperor Qianlong. The Wensu Pavilion was built during the Qianlong era specifically to store the "Complete Library of the Four Treasuries" and serves as the main structure of the western route; the "Complete Collection of Illustrations and Writings from Ancient and Modern Times" was also stored within the pavilion. Its architectural paintings do not use the dragon-and-phoenix motifs commonly found in palaces; instead, they feature themes harmonious with the function of a library, such as "white horse presenting books," with a fresh and elegant color palette that forms a striking contrast with the red-and-gold-dominated exterior decorations of other palaces. This was also the place where Emperor Qianlong read during his eastern inspection tours.

No. 1 of Night Attractions in Liaoning

Shenyang Fangcheng Cultural Tourism Area

Shenyang Fangcheng Cultural Tourism Area

8.4

Shenyang · 13.5km from downtown

123 reviews

Shenyang Fangcheng Cultural Tourism Zone is located in the center of Shenyang City. It is surrounded by Shuncheng Street in the east, west, south and north, with a total area of 1.69 square kilometers. It is a block with dense historical and cultural resources in Shenyang City, and it is also an area with concentrated historical and cultural relics in Northeast China. There are Shenyang Imperial Palace, a world cultural heritage, and Zhang Xueliang's former residence, a national key cultural relic protection unit, 7 provincial cultural relic protection units such as the Khan Palace Site, 9 municipal cultural relic protection units such as the Shengjing City Site (Northwest Corner Tower), 42 historical buildings such as the former site of the Governor's Office of the Three Eastern Provinces, 11 traditional stores such as Ma's Shaomai and Laobian Dumplings, 4 provincial intangible cultural heritages such as Shenyang folk traditional lantern riddles, Shenyang Hu Kuizhang pen making craftsmanship, Ma's Shaomai making skills, and Liao cuisine traditional making skills, and 16 municipal intangible cultural heritages such as Manchu pearl ball competition, Chen's metal relief craftsmanship, Li Liangui's smoked meat pancake traditional making skills, and Li Yongli's nuclear carving Attraction. Shenyang Zhongjie, which is known as the "No. 1 Street in Northeast China", is also a national demonstration pedestrian street.

No. 4 of Family-friendly Attractions in Liaoning

Liaoning Provincial Museum

7.5

4.9/5

1.8k reviews

The Liaoning Provincial Museum is located in the southern suburbs of Shenyang. The new building was opened in May 2015. Historical art and cultural relics archaeologically excavated in the Liaoning area are the subject of the museum. The bronzes, ancient maps, painting and calligraphy works, Hongshan jade, Liao Dynasty ceramics, Ming and Qing Dynasty prints, epitaphs and ancient currency are especially distinctive.

Shenyang · 355m from downtown

2026 Asia 100 - Family-friendly Attractions

Shenyang Fantawild Adventure

7

4.9/5

52.3k reviews

Shenyang Fantawild Adventure is located on Shengjing Avenue in Shenbei New District, Shenyang, covering an area of approx. 500,000 square meters. Meticulously built by Shenzhen Huaqiang Group, it is a large fourth-generation theme park in Northeast China. Shenyang Fantawild Adventure features sci-fi and interactive experiences, and is composed of more than a dozen large themed project areas, including Fly Over the Limit, Crazy Idioms, Dinosaur Crisis, Light of Life, Conch Bay, Liaozhai, Boonie Bears Adventure, Boonie Bears Talk Show, Fire Meteor, Mysterious Valley, Hurricane Flying Chairs, Children's Kingdom, Mine Coaster, Carefree Jellyfish, and Corgi Go-Karts, covering more than 300 themed, amusement, leisure, and view projects, including many mega-scale rides, with the vast majority suitable for all ages. Here you will find the high-altitude flying experience "Fly Over the Limit," the large volcano adventure "Mount Vesuvius," the large dinosaur resurrection disaster experience "Dinosaur Crisis," the enigmatic and wondrous interpretation of traditional Chinese mythology "Liaozhai," the colorful and dreamlike "Conch Bay," and the magical cartoon interactive show "Boonie Bears Talk Show," among others.

Shenyang · 32.1km from downtown

2026 Asia 50 - Hot Springs Attractions

Qinghe Peninsula Spa&Hot Spring

6.9

4.4/5

1.5k reviews

Qinghe Peninsula Spa&Hot Spring, with its stacked bonfires and fire pits, fills the cold winter with passionate sparks, burning with Nordic charm. The men's and women's bathing areas feature a distinctive nude bathing experience, allowing you to enjoy the openness and heat of South American countries right here in China. On the first floor, there are a toddler splash area, a children's splash area, an adult splash area, and sports-oriented soaking pools—all of which are hot spring pools, so you can have fun to the fullest without compromising your needs. On the second floor, there are functional soaking pools and a forest stone-slab rest area (elegant and inviting, ideal for vacations); outdoor soaking pools (especially beautiful at night when steam and lights intertwine—on a cold winter night, accompanied by the moon, gazing at distant scattered lights, with the whistling north wind overhead and the hot spring beside you). The beautiful place is the second-floor Lotus Realm, where nature gives you a warm embrace. The third floor features dining and steam room areas, yurts, a tent rest area, and a rest hall, while the fourth floor offers a sleep hall, tea ceremony room, and chess and card room; the environment is relatively quiet and suitable for extended rest and relaxation.

Shenyang · 28.9km from downtown

No. 14 of Best Things to Do in Liaoning

Zhongjie Street

6.9

4.6/5

845 reviews

The prosperity of the Zhongjie Commercial Circle is apparent to all. Modern facilities such as shopping and dining are readily available. The influx of people can find a brand in the forefront of fashion here with dizzying speed. Food lovers arent going to be let down either. Many of Shenyang's specialties are also gathered here. You can have a delicious meal and it is unforgettable. In addition, there are many feature bazaars, book fairs, bird markets, and other people who love to find a sense of belonging.

Shenyang · 13.8km from downtown

No. 16 of Best Things to Do in Liaoning

Qipan Mountain

6.7

Shenyang · 34.2km from downtown

1k reviews

Qipan Mountain is located approximately 30 km northeast of downtown Shenyang. The natural scenery is absolutely beautiful. At Qipan Mountain, you can experience a variety of recreational activities including mountain climbing, paintballing, and mountain sliding. During winter, Qipan Mountain becomes a world of ice and snow. Come admire the ice sculptures and play in the snow. In addition to the natural scenery, come appreciate the cultural landscape in the scenic area, such as the Guandong Film & TV Town.

Selected for Best Things to Do in Liaoning

Liu Laogen Stage

6.6

4.6/5

1.8k reviews

The Liu Laogen Stage, formerly known as Zhongjie Theater, is located on Shenyang Middle Street. The Grand Stage is a chain theater opened by Benshan Media and a theater for “song and dance duets.” This style of performance is humorous, popular, and cheerful, and it allows the audience to relax. Enjoying “song and dance duets” originating from the Northeast is a good entertainment option.

Shenyang · 13.7km from downtown

No. 1 of Fall Viewing Attractions in Shenyang

Beiling Park

6.6

Shenyang · 19.6km from downtown

455 reviews

Beiling Park (also known as Zhaoling Mausoleum of the Qing Dynasty) is located in Huanggu District, Shenyang City, Liaoning Province, China. It serves as the mausoleum of Hong Taiji, the second founding emperor of the Qing Dynasty, and his empress Xiaoduanwen. It is also one of the relatively well-preserved ancient imperial mausoleum complexes in China. As the largest and best-preserved among the "Three Imperial Mausoleums Outside Shanhaiguan" (the other two being Fuling and Yongling), Beiling Park combines historical cultural heritage with urban leisure functions. It is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site (as part of the Imperial Tombs of the Ming and Qing Dynasties extension) and a national AAAA-level tourist attraction. Beiling Park was initially constructed in 1643 (the 8th year of Chongde) and largely completed in 1651 (the 8th year of Shunzhi), with subsequent expansions during the Kangxi and Qianlong eras. It stands as a prime example of Qing Dynasty imperial mausoleum architecture blending Manchu and Han cultural elements. The complex features meticulously arranged structures including the Main Red Gate, Stele Pavilion, Long'en Hall, Square City, Crescent City, and the Treasure Dome (underground palace), all showcasing exquisite carvings and the grandeur of early Qing tomb architecture. The park boasts over 2,000 ancient pines aged 300+ years, forming a unique "ancient pine forest" view. Its southern section serves as a modern park area with lakes, flower fields, and tree-lined pathways offering seasonal charm: cherry blossoms in spring, lush greenery in summer, golden ginkgo leaves in fall, and serene snowscapes in winter.

No. 7 of Best Things to Do in Shenyang

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Traveller favourites curated for you

The Governor's House of Northeast China

6.5

4.4/5

691 reviews

Shenyang · 13.3km from downtown

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Shenyang Imperial Palace travel photo shoot [Hanfu rental + exquisite makeup and styling + optional one-on-one shooting + diverse costumes]

Shenyang

Free cancellationInstant confirmationBook now for tomorrowDuration: 1 hrEnglish

From€14.90

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9D8N • Shenyang round-trip flights + Harbin + Snow Town + Yabuli + Jilin

This itinerary has no hidden charges or compulsory consumption throughout the trip. No tips or extra fees will be charged at all. | We carefully select comfortable hotels for the entire trip to guarantee you a restful night's sleep. | Visit China's Snow Town, Harbin Ice-Snow World, Yabuli Skiing, and Songhua Lake Winter Fishing - all in one trip - for full fun ice and snow activities in Northeast China's top winter destinations.

Mandarin/EnglishGuaranteed departureFree cancellationArr. & dep. transfers incl.Deposit acceptedExcellent accommodationMultiple car types availablePrivate Tours

From EUR 950

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6D5N • Shenyang Imperial Palace + Changbai Mountain + Yanji + Harbin

Explore the history and culture of the three northeastern provinces of China, visit the magnificent Changbai Mountain, and sample the delicious cuisine of Yanji City. | Enjoy a private car service throughout your entire trip, no hidden fees. The itinerary is fully customizable to create the perfect journey just for you. | Stay in premium hotels throughout the trip, so you can enjoy a comfortable and restful journey.

English/MandarinGuaranteed departureArr. & dep. transfers incl.Excellent accommodationMultiple car types availablePrivate Tours

From EUR 631

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Experiences you can't miss in Shenyang

Featured Culture & history in Shenyang

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Shenyang imperial palace + marshal Zhang's mansion museum + Zhao mausoleum + the "9.18" historical museum 1-day tour (admission ticket not included)

Duration: 7.8 hrs

English

Free cancellation

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From€53.09

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The "9.18" historical museum + Beiling park + Zhao mausoleum + West tower 1-day tour (admission ticket at own expense)

Duration: 8 hrs

English

Free cancellation

From€308.73

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Xiaoheyan morning market + Shenyang Imperial Palace + Marshal Zhang's Mansion Museum + Zhongjie Street + intangible cultural heritage handicraft experience

Duration: 7.9 hrs

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From€203.11

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Xiaoheyan morning market + Shenyang imperial palace + marshal Zhang's mansion museum + the "9.18" historical museum + Zhongjie street

5.0/5

· 1 review

Duration: 7.4 hrs

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Shenyang imperial palace + marshal Zhang's mansion museum + Zhao Yidi's former residence + three northeastern provinces 1-day tour (admission ticket not included)

Duration: 6.8 hrs

English

Free cancellation

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From€53.09

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Shenyang Sanqiu Palace Hanfu photography experience (Hanfu rental + exquisite makeup styling + perfect experience)

5.0/5

· 1 review

Duration: 2 hrs

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Instant confirmation

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From€14.90

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Shenyang Fantawild Adventure + Shenyang Museum + West Tower private charter 1-day tour (admission ticket at own expense)

Duration: 8 hrs

English

Free cancellation

From€308.73

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Shenyang Van Gogh Star Sky Art Museum (immersive 4D light show + sunflower field tour)

4.0/5

· 1 review

Duration: 2 hrs

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From€5.42

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Private Tours in Shenyang

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7D • Shenyang + Changbai Mountain + Yanji + Xuexiang National Forest Park + Harbin

MandarinGuaranteed departureMultiple car types availableOptional transferPrivate Tours

Enjoy a limited selection of 5-diamond hotels in Yanji, a guaranteed stay in Xuexiang National Forest Park with no room sharing, a 5-diamond hot spring hotel in Changbai Mountain, and a branded 5-diamond hotel in Changchun. · Schedules departing after Dec 16 include a Harbin Ice and Snow World admission ticket and Yanji Folk Culture Park and Fairytale Xuexiang National Forest Park and 1 of 2 Changbai Mountain activities: skiing or rime rafting. · We guarantee your Changbai Mountain tickets. Admission and scenic shuttle fares are all covered for adults and kids, no additional payments required.

From EUR 818

7D6N • Shenyang + Changbai Mountain + Yanji + Xuexiang National Forest Park + Harbin

MandarinGuaranteed departureArr. & dep. transfers incl.Multiple car types availablePrivate Tours

Enjoy a limited selection of 4-diamond hotels in Yanji, a guaranteed stay in Xuexiang National Forest Park with no room sharing, a 4-diamond hot spring hotel in Changbai Mountain, and a branded 4-diamond hotel in Changchun. · Schedules departing after Dec 16 include a Harbin Ice and Snow World admission ticket and Yanji Folk Culture Park and Fairytale Xuexiang National Forest Park and 1 of 2 Changbai Mountain activities: skiing or rime rafting. · Pre-trip travel tips. WeChat travel concierge. Worry-free admission tickets: Guaranteed Changbai Mountain admission tickets, including admission and scenic area transportation for adults and children, with no extra fees

From EUR 682

9D8N • DongBei Trip: Shenyang + Changchun + Jilin + Snow Town + Harbin

MandarinGuaranteed departureArr. & dep. transfers incl.Excellent accommodationMultiple car types availablePrivate Tours

This itinerary has no hidden charges or compulsory consumption throughout the trip. No tips or extra fees will be charged at all. · We carefully select comfortable hotels for the entire trip to guarantee you a restful night's sleep. · This tour package includes pick-up and drop-off services for airports and railway stations.

SavingsEUR 30

From EUR 838

EUR 868

Shenyang Today's weatherFoggy 2-17℃

Shenyang weather for the next 2 days11/13: 0-15℃, 11/14: -1-14℃

Free things to do in Shenyang

Shenyang Fangcheng Cultural Tourism Area

8.4

Shenyang · 13.5km from downtown

123 reviews

Liaoning Provincial Museum

7.5

4.9/5

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Shenyang · 355m from downtown

Zhongjie Street

6.9

4.6/5

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Qipan Mountain

6.7

Shenyang · 34.2km from downtown

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The "9.18" Historical Museum

6.5

Shenyang · 17.7km from downtown

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Shenyang Museum

6

Shenyang · 14.2km from downtown

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Liaoning Science and Technology Museum

5.9

4.5/5

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Industrial Museum of China

5.6

Shenyang · 18.4km from downtown

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Laobeishi Scenic Area

5.2

4.4/5

48 reviews

Shenyang · 14.8km from downtown

West Pagoda

5.2