Joanna James
The largest city of the Liaoning Province in China, Shenyang is an ideal place for a holiday where you can have fun adventures, discover a rich heritage and enjoy natural beauty too. Here are some of the top attractions well worth adding to your sightseeing itinerary.
Also known as the Zhao Mausoleum, Zhaoling Tomb is one of Liaoning Province's, Three Imperial Tombs of the Qing Dynasty which have been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This particular tomb, found in Beiling Park, is amongst the best-preserved mausoleums in the country and one of the main attractions in Shenyang. Set amidst a vast number of ancient pines, the Zhaoling Tomb offers much to discover; highlights include the Cloud Pillars, Red Gate, Square City with its impressive Longen Hall, Ming Pavilion and Crescent City.
Another key site that is not to be missed is the Shenyang Imperial Palace or Mukden Palace. Located on Shenyang Road and within easy reach of accommodation options the likes of Somerset Heping Shenyang, it is the country's only royal palace outside of Beijing's Forbidden City. Dating back to the 17th century, the palace is a great place to wander around and features 20 courtyards along with calligraphy, paintings, sculptures, pottery and various cultural relics. The Hall of Great Affairs, Ten Kings Pavilion, Wen Su Pavilion, Qingning Palace and Phoenix Tower are amongst the notable sites of interest here.
Those who love spending time outdoors in nature will enjoy a visit to Beiling Park where the previously mentioned Zhaoling Tomb is located. One can stay at a centrally located city apartment, an ideal alternative to Shenyang hotel options and plan a visit here; you can look forward to strolling amidst idyllic lakes and pine trees as well as some historic sites too. Popular with families, the park which is the largest of its kind in the city, is also well suited for activities like cycling and jogging while ice skating is possible in winter.
Those looking for family attractions in Shenyang can consider a visit to the Xinglong Indoor Park which provides lots of fun for all ages. You can expect to enjoy the beauty of a lovely botanical garden with vibrant flowers, trees, pavilions and even some wildlife. At this site, one will also find an amusement park which the little ones are bound to love; there are various rides along with a 4D theatre, shooting gallery, a place for skating and more.
More nature-based exploration is on offer at the Shenyang Botanical Garden which is located around 10 km from the city centre. It is home to diverse plant life from various parts of China including rare species. Spanning an area of almost 190 hectares, this expansive site has 20 small gardens designed with different themes such as the Rose Garden, Lilac Garden and Peony Garden. Other noteworthy attractions here are the Cuihu Lake as well as the Xing-Xing Paradise and zoo area which the kids will love.
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