2025 Dandong Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in July)

Tired of crowded popular cities? These 4 off-the-beaten-path cities are reachable by high-speed rail, with beautiful scenery and low prices. Every photo looks like a masterpiece. Students & workers, quickly take note! 👇 1. Wenzhou, Zhejiang · A secret realm where mountains meet the sea ✨Must-try experiences: - Nanxi River: bamboo raft drifting (80 RMB/person), see ancient villages reflected in the water - Dongtou Island: Rainbow dam like Xiao Erhai, free for Instagram-worthy shots - Wuma Street: stroll through a Republic of China style old street, taste authentic glutinous rice 📸Photo spots: Lingshangrenjia night view | Huagang fishing village | Baizhangji Waterfall 🍜Must-eats: Dengzhan cake | Duck tongue 💡Tips: Direct bus from Wenzhou South Station to attractions, don’t miss the bayberry season in June 2. Qingyuan, Guangdong · A Lingnan landscape painting ✨Must-try experiences: - Gulong Gorge: walk the glass bridge + rafting (combo ticket 198 RMB), perfect summer cool down - Lianzhou Underground River: boat tour exploring billion-year-old karst caves (ticket 120 RMB) - Yingxi Fenglin: cycling through karst landforms (bike rental 30 RMB/day) 📸Photo spots: Huangchuan Three Gorges | Ou Family Terraces | Green World Fields 🍜Must-eats: Qingyuan chicken | Zhouxin porridge | Knife-cut glutinous rice cakes 💡Tips: 0.5h high-speed rail from Guangzhou, recommended to stay in Qingxin Hot Spring area 3. Hengyang, Hunan · The underestimated pearl of southern Hunan ✨Must-try experiences: - Mount Heng (Nanyue): hike or cable car to the summit (ticket 110 RMB), watch the sea of clouds roll - Shigu Academy: millennium-old school to experience Huxiang culture (free) - Dongzhou Island: the "Little Orange Isle" in the Xiang River, perfect for vintage artistic photos 📸Photo spots: Zhurong Peak sunrise | Huiyan Peak | Baoweili comic wall 🍜Must-eats: Fish noodles | Spicy snails | Glutinous rice cake 💡Tips: 0.5h high-speed rail from Changsha, foot-of-mountain homestays 100+ RMB/night in June 4. Dandong, Liaoning · The romance of a border town ✨Must-try experiences: - Yalu River Broken Bridge: gaze towards North Korea (ticket 30 RMB), stunning night views - Hushan Great Wall: eastern starting point of the Great Wall (ticket 60 RMB) 📸Photo spots: Jiangjie Railway Bridge | Hekou Peach Blossoms | Hun River big bend 🍜Must-eats: Stir-fried yellow clams with noodles | Strawberries (May season 10 RMB/jin) | Korean cold noodles 💡Tips: 1.5h high-speed rail from Shenyang, choose riverside rooms for accommodation 🚄Recommended itineraries: - Weekend trip: Qingyuan + Hengyang (mountains & waters combo) - Short holiday: Dandong + Wenzhou (sea & mountain combo) - Foodie trip: Hengyang + Dandong (noodles + seafood) 💬Interactive giveaway: Which small city do you most want to unlock? Tag 2 friends to win the "Underrated Cities Hand-drawn Guide" 🎨

I visited the border between North Korea and China in Dandong, as the title suggests! Dandong is a city located in the northeastern region of China. I traveled there from Dalian using the high-speed rail (bullet train). 🚄 As soon as I got off the train, I noticed SWAT officers and soldiers around, which gave off a serious atmosphere. However, the city itself felt more like a relaxed tourist destination. There weren’t any Japanese tourists or even young Chinese visitors; most of the tourists were older Chinese tour groups. The border bridge is relatively close to the station and can be reached either by bus or on foot. At the ticket counter for the bridge, you don’t need to show your passport, and purchasing a ticket (20 yuan) is very smooth. You can also get tickets online through Trip.com! From the bridge, you can capture both North Korea and China in a single photo, so I highly recommend visiting. There are many souvenir shops around the bridge. While there are some near the station, I recommend shopping near the bridge for a wider variety of options. ◎ My itinerary included visiting the bridge, buying souvenirs, and dining at a North Korean restaurant, which took me just under three hours. It was definitely worth the trip! I encourage everyone to visit if you have the chance. 💰 Cost per person: 20 yuan (bridge entrance fee) 📍 Location: Dandong, 2.5 hours by high-speed rail from Dalian.

📍Wenzhou - Attractions: Must-visit spots include Yandang Mountain, Liu Bowen's Hometown Scenic Area (Baizhang Waterfall), and Nanxi River Scenic Area. For family trips, visit Wenzhou Polar Ocean World and Wenzhou Paradise. Free attractions include Wuma Street, Wenzhou Museum, and Impression Nantang. - Food: Try local seafood at Yizhan Fang Seafood Restaurant and Su-Zhe cuisine at Der Le Hotel. Local snacks include fish wontons at Chang Ren Wonton Shop, pork intestine rice noodles at Shou Ying's, and lamp-bowl cake at Biantou. - Accommodation: Luxury options include Wenzhou Kaiyuan Mandu Hotel and The Westin Wenzhou. For family-friendly stays, consider Wenzhou Golden Coast Kaiyuan Mandu Resort Hotel. 📍Qingyuan - Attractions: Must-visit spots include Lianzhou Underground River, Thousand-Year Yao Village, and Chimelong Qingyuan Resort. For families, visit Aoyuan Yingde Chocolate Kingdom Resort. Free attractions include Bijia Mountain Tourist Resort, Qingquan Bay Eco-Tourism Resort, and North River Little Three Gorges. - Food: Try Cantonese dim sum at Dian Tian Xia Tea House, Cantonese cuisine at Meilin Lake Hot Spring Hotel's Gu Zhen Restaurant, and farm-style dishes at Pinwei Garden Restaurant. - Accommodation: For luxury stays, choose New World Qingyuan Hotel. Family-friendly options include Xilegu Hot Spring Resort Hotel. For scenic views, stay at Baojinggong Swan Lake Hot Spring Hotel. 📍Benxi - Attractions: Must-visit spots include Benxi Water Cave, Guanmen Mountain National Forest Park, and Benxi Grand Canyon. For families, visit Xiaoshi Yizhuang. Free attractions include Wangxi Park, Maple Square, and Benxi Lake Park. - Food: Try northeastern cuisine at Small Pot Rice Tofu Restaurant, northeastern barbecue at Nanbo Wan BBQ, and grilled dishes at 0414 String Bar. - Accommodation: High-end options include Benxi Yaxi Duo Select Hotel and Benxi Guanting Holiday Hotel. Comfortable choices include Benxi Hailian Hotel and Benxi Mingshiyu Scenic Boutique Hotel. 📍Dandong - Attractions: Must-visit spots include Dandong Phoenix Mountain, Yalu River Broken Bridge, and Tiger Mountain Great Wall. For spring outings and flower viewing, visit Dandong Tianqiao Valley Scenic Area, Lvjiang Village, and Yalu River Park. Free attractions include Yalu River Park, Korean War Memorial Hall, and Jinjiang Mountain Park. - Food: Try Korean bibimbap at Quanzhou Bibimbap Restaurant, charcoal-grilled seafood at Taibai Seafood BBQ, and charcoal-grilled meat at Lao Ji BBQ Restaurant. - Accommodation: Luxury options include Dandong Pearl Hotel and Wanda Vista Dandong. For scenic views, choose Dandong Zhonglian Hotel or Dandong Pearl Island Riverside Hotel. For hot springs, stay at Dandong New Edo Hot Spring City Hotel or Dandong Yitang Hot Spring Hotel. 📍Datong - Attractions: Must-visit spots include Yungang Grottoes, Hanging Temple, and Datong Ancient City. For families, visit Datong Fantawild Adventure. Free attractions include Nine Dragon Screen, Datong Museum, and Shanhua Temple. - Food: Try Jin cuisine at Fenglin Pavilion, northwestern Shanxi dishes at Zini 369 Coarse Grain Restaurant, and deep-fried pork at Laoyemiao Flavor Restaurant. - Accommodation: Luxury options include Datong Yungang Hotel and Howard Johnson Datong. For boutique guesthouses, try Datong Yunzhong Inn or Beiwei Yunqi.

✨Top 3 Dandong Experiences A Glimpse of North Korea: Take a Yalu River cruise and see the Sinuiju Special Administrative Region of North Korea with your own eyes. Memories of a Heroic City: Visit the panoramic wall at the Memorial Hall of the War to Resist US Aggression and Aid Korea. The Starting Point of the Border: Take a photo with the 0 km marker of National Highway G331/G228 and the statue of Chairman Mao. 🚶♀2-Day, 1-Night Essential Itinerary Duration: 2 days, 1 night Day 1: Dandong City → Memorial Hall of the War to Resist US Aggression and Aid Korea → Yalu River Broken Bridge → Hekou Scenic Area → Hushan Great Wall → Lvjiang Village Day 2: Lvjiang Village → Return to Dandong Highlights: Border scenery between China and North Korea, war history, rapeseed flower fields, and the nostalgic charm of "Where the Peach Blossoms Bloom." 📅Day 1: Dandong City → Lvjiang Village (approx. 200 km, 4-hour drive) Morning: First Exploration of History and the Border 7:30–9:00 am: Memorial Hall of the War to Resist US Aggression and Aid Korea Must-sees: 360° panoramic war scenes and a replica of Peng Dehuai's command post. Reservations are required (free). Tip: Arrive before 8:00 am to avoid crowds. 9:30–10:30 am: Yalu River Broken Bridge. Climb the bridge and look out over Sinuiju, North Korea. Tickets: CNY 30. Midday: Nostalgic Charm of "Where the Peach Blossoms Bloom" 11:00 am–1:00 pm: Hekou Scenic Area, the birthplace of the song "Where the Peach Blossoms Bloom." Route: Dandong City → Hekou Scenic Area (40-minute drive) Afternoon: The Great Wall and the Border Highway 2:00–3:30 pm: Hushan Great Wall Highlights: The eastern starting point of the Ming Dynasty Great Wall. Climb the "One Step Across" and look out over North Korean farmland. Tickets: CNY 60. Tip: Some steps are steep. Non-slip shoes are recommended. Drones are prohibited (border control). 4:00–7:00 pm: Drive to Lvjiang Village Route: Along National Highway 331 → Zhenjiang Town → Hunjiang Great Bend Viewing Platform (stop for photos) → Lvjiang Village Scenery along the way: Hunjiang Great Bend (the First Bend of Liaodong) and riverside rapeseed flower fields (golden fields in May–June). Evening: If you're lucky, you can capture the sunset and the iconic old fisherman casting his net in Lvjiang Village. Accommodation: Village guesthouses. Enjoy iron pot stewed river fish for dinner. 📅Day 2: Lvjiang Village → Return to Dandong (approx. 200 km, 4-hour drive) Early Morning: Lvjiang Village's Hidden Gems 5:30–7:00 am: Watch the sunrise from Shenxian Peak. Activity: Hike for 20 minutes to the summit and take photos of the "submerged land" tidal flats and fishing boat silhouettes in the morning mist. Morning: Countryside and Nature 10:30 am–12:00 pm: Rapeseed flower fields and the mouth of the Hunjiang River. Rapeseed flower fields: Navigate to the "Dà Měi Lǜ Jiāng" logo. Wearing a white dress will make your photos even better (best time to visit is May–June). Afternoon: Return to Dandong 1:00–5:00 pm: Return route options Recommended route: Lvjiang Village → Paohun Line → Danji Line → National Highway 331 → Dandong City. Take photos of any scenery you missed along the way. ⚠Important Notes Border Control: Carry your ID card at all times. Do not take photos of North Korean sentry posts or use drones. Road Conditions: Some sections of National Highway 331 are mountain roads with sharp bends and steep slopes. Experienced drivers are recommended. April–May: The peach blossoms in Hekou and the rapeseed flowers in Lvjiang Village are both stunning. September–October: The colorful autumn foliage of the Hunjiang River is perfect for photography. Food and Accommodation Recommendations: Accommodation in Lvjiang Village is basic. Book 2 weeks in advance during peak season. 🌉In Dandong, even the wind whispers tales of history.

Day 1: City Tour and Experience the Atmosphere of North Korea • Arrive in Dandong by high-speed train and check into the hotel • Visit the Memorial Hall of the War to Resist US Aggression and Aid Korea (learn about the Korean War from the Chinese perspective) • Walk on the Broken Bridge on the Yalu River (feel the history through the war-torn bridge) • Stroll around Dandong Station area (experience the border atmosphere between China and North Korea) • Dinner: Enjoy authentic North Korean cuisine at a North Korean restaurant Day 2: Tour Spots Overlooking North Korea • Hushan Great Wall (the easternmost part of the Great Wall with a view of North Korean villages) • Yalu River Cruise (observe North Korean soldiers and daily life up close) • Dandong Old Street Market (experience local specialties and Korean culture) • Visit the Hekou Broken Bridge (another historical bridge) • Dinner: Enjoy local seafood cuisine Day 3: Enjoy the Nature and History of Dandong • Moon Island (a relaxing spot along the Yalu River) • Final sightseeing while viewing the Sino-Korean Friendship Bridge • Lunch: Dandong specialty 'Korean Cold Noodles' • Return to Shenyang by high-speed train and head home Recommended Spots 1. Broken Bridge on the Yalu River (a historical bridge with war scars) 2. Hushan Great Wall (the end of the Great Wall with a view of North Korean villages) 3. Yalu River Cruise (a rare experience to observe North Korea up close) Recommended Gourmet 1. Pyongyang Restaurant (North Korean restaurant/popular for cold noodles and bibimbap) 2. Dandong Old Street Seafood Market (fresh seafood cooked on the spot) 3. Yalu River Grilled Fish (famous grilled fish dish from the Yalu River) Recommended Hotels • Area with hotels: Around Dandong Station (convenient for sightseeing) • Hotel Name: Dandong Zhonglian Hotel • Hotel Address: Binjiang Middle Road, Zhenxing District, Dandong City, Liaoning Province Photo Spots 1. Hushan Great Wall Observation Deck (take photos with North Korean villages and nature in the background) 2. Deck of the Yalu River Cruise (perfect spot to capture North Korean buildings and soldiers) 3. Dandong Night View (along the Yalu River) (beautiful reflections of the illuminated bridge and river) Other Points • North Korean restaurants sometimes have local music and dance shows • The atmosphere on the cruise varies depending on the time of day, offering different experiences in the afternoon and evening • Dandong is a region rich in Korean culture, making it interesting to observe the food culture and streets

The short holiday is coming, do you want to explore the mysterious scenery of the border? This Dalian-Dandong 6-day tour will take you on a boat trip to appreciate the beautiful scenery of the China-North Korea border, immerse yourself in Manchu and Korean ethnic cultures, and visit the Yalu River Broken Bridge! Don't miss out! / 🚩Itinerary: Day 1: Arrive in Dalian, enjoy pick-up service and check in to a 4-diamond hotel to start your romantic Liaodong Peninsula journey! Free time on the first day to explore the city's charm. Day 2: Dalian Discovery Kingdom -> Fisherman's Wharf -> Bangchui Island -> Binhai Road. Take a boat tour to experience the unique charm of the coastal city, then head to Fisherman's Wharf to enjoy the seaside atmosphere. Next, visit Bangchui Island to admire the natural beauty. Finally, stroll along Binhai Road and enjoy the gentle sea breeze. In the evening, go to Dalian Forest Zoo and take the Haidasuo cable car to overlook the city's beautiful scenery. The Xinghai Square at night is even more dazzling. Day 3: Xinghai Bay Cross-Sea Bridge -> Ba玉 Mountain Scenic Area -> Military Port Park -> Lushun Prison Site Museum. Drive across the bridge and experience the magnificent sea view. Then visit Ba玉 Mountain and overlook the entire military port. Next, visit the Military Port Park and the Lushun Prison Site to learn about the vicissitudes of history. Finally, head to Taiyanggou and Dongjiguan Mountain to explore the blend of nature and history. Day 4: Jinshitan Resort -> Dalian Binhai National Geological Park -> Golden Pebble Beach. Relax in the resort, then head to the geological park to explore the mysteries of nature. In the evening, stroll along the Golden Pebble Beach and enjoy the beautiful beach scenery under the sunset. Day 5: Korean War Memorial -> Yalu River Broken Bridge -> Andong Old Street -> Hushan Great Wall. Visit the memorial hall to commemorate the heroes of history. Then visit the Yalu River Broken Bridge and experience the unique border customs. Next, stroll along Andong Old Street and savor authentic local cuisine. Finally, climb the Hushan Great Wall to enjoy the magnificent mountain scenery and explore the unique experience of crossing the China-North Korea border in one step. Day 6: End your pleasant Liaodong journey, return home with full memories and beautiful travel photos and videos, and share your wonderful journey with family and friends!🎉 / Must-See Attractions: 🌟 Dalian Discovery Kingdom ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Address: No. 20 Gangpu Road, Zhongshan District, Dalian City, Liaoning Province Opening Hours: Open all day Duration: 1-3 hrs In the Venice of the East, more than 200 European-style castles are scattered in an orderly manner. Gondolas take you through the water city to experience the magnificent romance. 🌊 Bangchui Island ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Address: No. 1 Yingbin Road, Zhongshan District, Dalian City, Liaoning Province Opening Hours: 08:30-16:00 Duration: 3-5 hrs Featuring clear waters and clean beaches, as well as isolated islands, you can enjoy the natural beauty. 🏖️ Jinshitan Resort ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Address: Jinshi Road, Jinzhou District, Dalian City, Liaoning Province Opening Hours: October 26, 2024 - April 24, 2025 08:30-16:30 Duration: 1-2 days A full range of amusement facilities, unparalleled scenery, and peculiar marine geological landscapes. 🌆 Xinghai Square ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Address: No. 572 Zhongshan Road, Shahekou District (Southwest Road Intersection) Opening Hours: Open all day Duration: 1-2 hrs One of Dalian's landmarks, where seascapes and sculptures complement each other, paved with red stones, it is incredibly beautiful. / Tips: 🚗 Airport Transportation: From Dalian Airport to the city center, you can choose the subway or taxi. For Dandong, it is recommended to take the bus or a taxi. 🍱 Food Recommendations: Dalian seafood is top-notch, and Dandong's barbecue and cold noodles are not to be missed. Foodies, hurry up and take action! 🎁 Souvenir Prices: Dalian sea cucumber and Dandong chestnuts are good choices, reasonably priced, and suitable for gifts or personal use. 🎉 Local Customs: Northeastern people are warm and hospitable. You can experience local customs and feel a different kind of local culture! / 🎉The Dalian-Dandong tour ends here. Don't forget to like and save it. Next time you travel with a private group, we will continue to take you to explore more beautiful scenery!🚗

Seniors, get ready for a fantastic two-day tour of Dandong! Explore this border city with ease, visiting the Yalu River, Hushan Great Wall, the Yalu River Broken Bridge, and Andong Old Street. Enjoy a leisurely experience with no shopping! 🌟Itinerary Overview: Discover Dandong and its Border Charms🌟 Day 1: Arrive at Dandong Railway Station—Transfer to Hotel—Free Time Upon arrival in Dandong, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Enjoy free time to explore the city's unique charm. Day 2: Yanwo Railway Bridge Ruins—Hushan Great Wall—One-Step Across the China-North Korea Border—Yalu River Estuary Wharf River Cruise—Yalu River Broken Bridge—Andong Old Street Day two is all about exploring Dandong's highlights. Start with the historical Yanwo Railway Bridge Ruins, followed by the majestic Hushan Great Wall. Experience the mystery of the border at the One-Step Across the China-North Korea Border. Take a cruise on the Yalu River, enjoying the scenery of the estuary wharf, and then visit the Yalu River Broken Bridge to reflect on history. In the evening, stroll along Andong Old Street and experience the city's nightlife. Recommended Attractions: - 🌉Yalu River Broken Bridge: This is Dandong's landmark attraction! Not only can you experience the profound history of the Korean War, but you can also enjoy the beautiful scenery of China and North Korea. It's perfect for seniors to commemorate history and enjoy a relaxing time. - 🚶‍♂️One-Step Across the China-North Korea Border: Want to observe the life and work of North Korean people up close? This is the place to be! You can even dress up in traditional Korean clothing and take memorable photos. - 🛳️Yalu River Estuary Wharf River Cruise: Enjoy the wonderful experience of cruising on the clear waters of the Yalu River, taking in the scenery of both countries. The cruise passes by the Hekou Broken Bridge, an important historical relic from the Korean War, where you can feel the weight of history alongside the beauty of nature. Tips: - Food: Dandong seafood🦞and barbecue🍖are must-tries, as well as the local specialty, sour cabbage hot pot🍲! - March Weather: The spring breeze is gentle🌿, but there is a large temperature difference between day and night, so remember to bring a thick coat🧥. - Photo Spots: Fenghuang Mountain🏞️and Lujiang Village🏡offer picturesque scenery not to be missed! - Airport Transportation: Langtou Airport✈️is not far from the city center, and buses🚌or taxis🚕are readily available. Your trip to Dandong promises not only beautiful scenery but also unforgettable food and memories. Come explore and don't miss out!

||By the Yalu River, a border city. ⏰️Time: Mar 2, 2025 📍Location: Dandong City, Liaoning Province 🚶🏻One-day Itinerary: Memorial Hall of the War to Resist US Aggression and Aid Korea > Yalu River Broken Bridge > Jinjiangshan Park > Andong Old Street 🌟Memorial Hall of the War to Resist US Aggression and Aid Korea: Located on Yinghua Hill by the Yalu River in Dandong City, Liaoning Province, the Memorial Hall of the War to Resist US Aggression and Aid Korea faces Sinuiju, North Korea, across the river. It is the only museum in the country dedicated to the history of the War to Resist US Aggression and Aid Korea. With "Resisting US Aggression and Aiding Korea, Defending the Home and Country" as its main theme, the museum comprehensively, objectively, and truthfully recreates the glorious history of the War to Resist US Aggression and Aid Korea. ✨Yalu River Broken Bridge: The Yalu River Broken Bridge was the first bridge among many on the Yalu River, built by the Railway Bureau of the Japanese Governor-General of Korea. In November 1950, it was bombed by the US Air Force, becoming a witness to the vicissitudes of the War to Resist US Aggression and Aid Korea. It's a pity that the fog was thick these two days, and even climbing to the top of Jinjiangshan, I couldn't get a clear shot of the other side😭, leaving a little regret.

DANDONG, a border city of memories, is located in Liaoning Province in northeastern China and marks the eastern end of the Great Wall of China. The Yalu River forms the border between the city and North Korea. I traveled here by train, and upon exiting the train station, I was greeted by a grand statue of Chairman Mao Zedong, standing proudly and facing the vast land of China. Initially, I thought this was a small town, but upon seeing it with my own eyes, I realized it is quite developed. The main tourist attraction is the Friendship Bridge, where tourists take photos with the old or broken bridge, which has a steel structure but was partially destroyed during the Korean War. Today, it serves as a historical tourist spot that attracts many visitors. The city is bustling with activity, featuring shopping centers, various 4-star hotels, and numerous restaurants that mostly close around 8 PM. I passed by a dumpling shop that served delicious shrimp dumplings. The city gets dark early but also brightens early, similar to the mainland, due to its latitude near Korea. Traveling here is easy; you can take a high-speed train from Shenyang, the provincial capital, or from Dalian, which is also convenient. #wattosann

👍️Recommended reason: D4: Dandong—Yalu River Broken Bridge is one of the iconic attractions in Dandong. 📅Travel tips: You can walk along the river to the Broken Bridge and Yalu River Bridge. It is recommended to walk on the bridge. 🍜Food tips: Yellow clams!!! Must-eat yellow clams!!! Big and fat yellow clams!!! Boiled yellow clams with soy sauce are so delicious. In addition, this is the starting point of the China-North Korea border, and Korean food is also very authentic. Cheese rice cake chicken is delicious. 🏨Accommodation tips: Most hotels are located by the river, so they are a bit damp. Try to stay on a higher floor.

🌉 Friendship Bridge: Walk across the broken bridge, which was damaged during the Korean War, and take in the view of North Korea on the other side. It’s a unique and fascinating experience. 🏯 Hushan Great Wall: This lesser-known part of the Great Wall offers stunning views. Climbing the wall, you’ll reach points where you can look across the Yalu River to North Korea—a thrilling sight. 🇰🇵 Views of North Korea: From several vantage points in Dandong, you can catch glimpses of life in North Korea. Consider taking a boat ride on the Yalu River for an up-close view of the border. 🚶 Tip: Wear comfortable shoes for climbing the wall and exploring the area, and bring binoculars if you want a better view across the river. #summerdestinations #china #chinatrip #chinatravel #mytravelhacks #historicallandmarks #localguides #familytrip

#falltrip Dandong is a city in Liaoning Province, northeastern China, situated on the border with North Korea along the Yalu River. Dandong is a vital border city due to its proximity to North Korea. The Yalu River serves as a natural boundary, and the city has a view of the North Korean city of Sinuiju across the river. A railway bridge connects Dandong with Sinuiju and serves as a transportation link between the two countries. More so, Dandong is home to a portion of the Great Wall of China known as the Hushan Great Wall. It runs along the Yalu River and offers scenic views of both China and North Korea. Tips and Tricks ⁉️ 🧳Dandong is a gateway for tourists interested in limited tours to the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (North Korea). These tours often involve boat trips on the Yalu River. 🌉The Broken Bridge is a significant landmark with historical significance. It was bombed during the Korean War, and a section of the bridge remains as a reminder of the conflict. 🏞️A scenic area by the name Phoenix mountain (凤凰山) which has numerous hiking trails and viewpoints offering panoramic views of the Yalu River and the surrounding landscape is 1.5 - 2 hours ride outside the city. #SpinTheWorld #wecreate #mytravelhacks #localguides

Ever wondered what it looks like across the border and in to North Korea? Well from Dandong, on the Chinese side of the border you can. For a small entrance fee you can walk to the end of what was the old bridge that connected the two countries and look out at the new bridge and the beginning of North Korea. This is a fascinating glimpse of a world we hear so much about and yet know very little about. #bordercrossing

Getting There - train to Dandong train station from Harbin was about 4hrs and 300Cny. Attractions - The broken bridge is main thing we came to see was a boat tour we’d like to do but we didn’t have time. the food around the town was pretty good we went to a nice Japanese restaurant. Hotels - we stayed at the home inn selected. was very nice good location and friendly staff. foreigner friendly.#2023travelwish Shopping -

This is the Yalu River Bridge in Dandong, China. If you pay the entrance fee and go up to the bridge, North Korea on the other side seems close enough to touch. Next to the bridge, you can see the Sino-North Korean Friendship Bridge, where North Korea resumed freight train service. When I imagine the horrific wartime, my heart feels heavy. It's definitely worth a visit.

Getting There - An easy 3 hours drive from Shenyang. Only in Dandong city the traffic is a bit crazy. About 25 minutes going to the Great Wall from the city center. Attractions - Entrance fee is about 60 RMB. in case you want to book a guide it’s an additional 300. I think it’s not needed. I recommend getting the bus ticket. While it is a round trip the last 2.5km is a long walk back around the mountain. Hotels - The Wanda Realm was a good choice in the buzzing city center. There is not much English all around the city - just keep in mind! Food & Restaurants - North Korean BBQ is the choice in Dandong. you’ll find plenty of good places all around the city. choose one nearby the river for an after dinner stroll to Yalu Broken Bridge! Shopping - well to Dandong you simply don’t go for shopping! #ancientlandmark#historicculture#naturalwonders#culturalattractions#hiking

The Broken Bridge of Yalu River is a must-see when traveling to Dandong. North Korea can be seen from the bridge. The Broken Yalu River Bridge is located in Dandong, Liaoning Province, China. It is the remaining part of the original Yalu River Bridge after it was bombed. It was built by the Railway Bureau of the Japanese Governor-General's Office of Korea and was later bombed by the US Air Force, becoming a witness to the vicissitudes of history of the War to Resist US Aggression and Aid Korea. #Yalu River

Getting There -  Attractions -  Hotels -  Food & Restaurants -  Shopping - 

We took the high speed train from Shenyang to Dandong for a weekend trip. What a nice surprise.. from the broken bridge you can have a look over to North Korea 🇰🇵. We also had a river cruise along the boarder. The highlight of Dandong was two things 1. Korean BBQ 2. Great Wall, where you are just a stone throw away from North Korea.

Overwhelmed with the beautiful of Dandong. it was a short trip of two days but going back with a full bucket of joy and memories. Thank you Dandong! #dandong #lifeinchina #solotraveler #hiking #easylife

Dandong, Liaoning is the main border crossing between China and North Korea. A popular attraction is the broken bridge, bombed on the Korean side by the United States during the Korean War. You can walk to the end of what's left and gaze across to Sinujiu in the Hermit Kingdom. A river cruise is another way to get a good view of the Korean side. Dandong was also the end of the Great Wall of China during the Ming Dynasty. The heavily restored wall is another excellent place to look into Korea, as it's close to the modern border. Though the border is currently closed due to Covid, organized tours of North Korea ordinarily leave from Dandong, including day tours of Sinujiu and train journeys to Pyongyang. #LeaveYourMark #urbanexplorer #LightTheCity #Dandong #Liaoning #China #Korea #NorthKorea #GreatWall #GreatWallofChina #bridge

Very interesting when you know the history of this place! You can clearly see North Korea on the other side. it's eerily quiet and dark, no moving vehicles, no noise. #historicculture

Hiking in China on Phoenix Mountain is worth the travel to get there as the views are lovely as is the striking temple. The Chinese name is Fenghuangshan, and the mountain is located in Fengcheng, Dandong Prefecture, China. #happynewyear #happynewyear

At Yalu River broken bridge. Border between China 🇨🇳 and North Korea 🇰🇵 #happynewyear #happynewyear

The Yalu River Broken Bridge, a bridge that has experienced vicissitudes. This is the landmark of Dandong, which straddles the Yalu River and connects China and North Korea. After experiencing the baptism of the War to Resist US Aggression and Aid Korea, one end of the bridge was broken, leaving only half.

| A Healing Little Trip to Explore the Border and Enjoy Delicious Food Just Back from Dandong. 🚄 Super convenient transportation! Depart from Shenyang Station at 7:00 → Direct to Dandong Station at 8:29, return at 19:32 → Arrive in Shenyang at 21:02, perfect for a day trip, and you can even catch some sleep on the high-speed train~ 🗺️ One-Day Highlight Itinerary ▪️ Start early by checking in at the train station square! Take a photo with Chairman Mao’s statue, find the right angle to capture the words “Chairman Mao and Dandong,” full of commemorative meaning 🇨🇳 ▪️ Highly recommend a half-day tour along the border! Book a private car driver in advance and slowly cruise along the G331 border line~ Stop by Hushan Great Wall for a short climb, stand at “One Step Across” to see the North Korean scenery on the other side, listen to historical stories by the Yalu River Floating Bridge, take a boat ride for a close-up view of the foreign scenery, and enjoy the driver-guide’s entertaining commentary all the way—never boring~ ▪️ Rush to Gao Shezhang’s Soup Rice for lunch! Head straight to the restaurant after the border tour, enjoy the hot soup rice with kimchi, warming your stomach with every bite, and get energized for the afternoon~ ▪️ Don’t miss the Yalu River Broken Bridge! Just a 10-minute walk away, rent a North Korean costume for 10 yuan to take atmospheric photos 📸 Stand on the broken bridge to enjoy the river view, and when the wind blows, you can almost hear echoes of history. The scenery on the opposite bank is also crystal clear~ ▪️ The War to Resist US Aggression and Aid Korea Memorial Hall requires advance booking! A quick taxi ride from the broken bridge, with two exhibition halls indoors and outdoors. Spend about 1.5 hours slowly exploring, feeling deeply moved by the exhibits and stories. Remember to keep quiet~ ▪️ Stroll through Andong Old Street in the evening! The first floor is full of snacks, don’t miss the Jin Zhu rice cake, soft, glutinous, and sweet~ The second floor is a creative cultural area perfect for photos, full of old Dandong vibes, every shot looks like a vintage magazine cover~ ▪️ End the night at Moon Island Night Market! Just a 12-minute walk from Andong Old Street, the aroma of grilled cold noodles and steamed jelly fills the air. North Korean cold noodles are sweet and sour and refreshing. Eating while strolling is super cozy, the night market’s lively atmosphere is so healing~ 🍜 Must-Try Food List ▪️ Gao Shezhang’s beef soup rice is amazing! Fresh soup and tender vegetables, gulp down a bowl with rice, so comforting~ ▪️ Jin Zhu rice cake at Andong Old Street is made fresh and sold on the spot. Dip it in soybean powder and take a bite, sticky but not sticky to the teeth~ ▪️ Grilled cold noodles with sausage and egg at Moon Island Night Market, loaded with sauce, and the steamed jelly is chewy and bouncy with sesame paste, finger-licking good~ ▪️ You must try North Korean cold noodles! The sweet and sour broth with chewy noodles is super refreshing in summer~ 💡 Real Experience Tips ▪️ The War to Resist US Aggression and Aid Korea Memorial Hall must be booked in advance! Otherwise, you can’t get in~ ▪️ Renting the 10-yuan North Korean costume is enough, great for photos at the broken bridge and old street, very cost-effective~ ▪️ Booking a private car for the border tour is more worry-free! The driver knows the route and tells stories about the attractions, more efficient than wandering around on your own~ ▪️ People in Dandong are really nice! The private car driver helps plan the itinerary, the broken bridge owner guides photo poses, the creative store owner offers discounts, and the taxi driver even takes you to the memorial hall’s shortcut entrance, so warm-hearted~ ❤️ Little Feelings Dandong is not only famous for its sweet strawberries but also a heroic city full of stories~ In one day, I explored the border scenery, visited historical museums, and tasted authentic local food. The pace was slow but fulfilling~ The city’s gentleness and resilience are hidden in the details of every street and alley, making you want to come back again~ Friends who have been there, come share your secret tips! 💕

When autumn deepens, Dandong is steeped in a golden dream. The first to awaken are the ancient ginkgo trees on Qijing Street. Their bark cracks like the backs of old men's hands, yet their branches stubbornly stretch toward the sky, sifting sunlight into scattered gold. While morning dew still clings to leaf tips, green begins to fade quietly—first, the edges blush with pale yellow, like ink diffusing on rice paper. Within days, the entire tree ignites into a torch, and when the wind passes, countless leaves clap their hands, rustling as they settle into the grooves of the stone-paved road. Children love to wait beneath the trees for the wind. The moment it arrives, butterfly-like leaves spiral down, and they leap to catch them. Just as their fingertips brush those delicate "little fans," the sunlight hidden in the veins burns their hands, making them pull back. An old man pushing a cart of candied hawthorns passes by, wooden wheels crunching over the piled leaves, the sound mingling with the cooing of pigeons filtering through the branches—a melody as soft as late autumn itself. The ginkgo-lined avenue is gentlest at dusk. The setting sun stretches the tree shadows long, and a schoolgirl in uniform picks up a perfect leaf to press between her textbook pages. Under lamplight, its veins reveal a delicate web, as if someone embroidered the patterns of time upon it. At the street corner, elders settle onto small stools, saying these trees are older than their grandfathers—having survived artillery shells during the war and sheltered people from storms in famine years. Now, they shed golden snow each year, a blessing of peace for the entire city. As night deepens, streetlights glow, and leaves float in the halos like honeyed treasures. Occasionally, a latecomer walks by, crushing starlight underfoot and startling a few lingering leaves that whirl after their steps—reluctant to leave, eager for one last look at this gold-wrapped city. They watch chimney smoke rise through the branches, see countless home lights reflected in their translucent palms. Dandong's autumn is never bleak. These ginkgo leaves fall and regrow, distilling centuries of stories into warmth held in one's palm. Year after year, they whisper to every passerby in the wind.