Feel the history while shopping! 13 must-visit tourist spots in Shenyang, China

The city of Shenyang, once called Fengtian, is the premier shopping area in Northeast China. But its distribution volume ranks among the top in the region. Shenyang was also the base of Zhang Zuolin, and you can visit its historical buildings as tourist attractions.

In addition, part of the current Shenyang Station was designed by a student of Kingo Tatsuno, the architect who designed Tokyo Station. Because of this, some people might feel a sense of nostalgia when they see it.

This time, we’ve picked up some must-see tourist spots in Shenyang.

1. Shenyang Imperial Palace Museum

The Shenyang Imperial Palace Museum is a tourist spot built during the Later Jin period, the predecessor of the Qing Dynasty. It was the palace used by the first and second emperors of the Qing Dynasty. Covering 60,000 square meters, the Shenyang Imperial Palace has 114 buildings and over 500 rooms, all well-preserved.
Built on the remains of an imperial court, the museum holds many ancient court artworks. In 1961, the State Council designated the Shenyang Imperial Palace as a "National Key Cultural Relic Protection Site." In July 2004, it was approved at the 28th session of the World Heritage Committee and registered on the "World Cultural Heritage" list as an imperial cultural heritage site from the Ming and Qing Dynasties.

The Dazheng Hall in the east is octagonal, which is rare in Chinese palace architecture. This octagonal design was inspired by the portable tents (ger) of nomadic tribes. Besides Dazheng Hall, there are many other highlights, such as Chongzheng Hall and Fenghuang Hall.

2. Beiling Park

Beiling Park is the largest park in Shenyang, covering an area of 3.3 million square meters. In 1643, the Zhaoling Tomb of Emperor Huang Taiji, the second emperor of the Qing Dynasty, and his empress Jerjer was completed. In 1927, the Fengtian provincial government turned Zhaoling into a park. Since it is located in the northern part of the city, it was named Beiling Park.
Zhaoling is one of Shenyang’s tourist attractions and showcases the early architecture of the Qing Dynasty.

The main feature is a square-shaped tomb complex. It has a similar structure to Fuling, which was built earlier in the eastern part of Shenyang. Beiling is a place where you can feel the atmosphere of old Shenyang. It’s a must-visit when you come to the city.

3. Zhang Family Marshal Mansion

The Zhang Family Marshal Mansion, also known as the "Great Marshal Mansion" or "Little Marshal Mansion," is a famous tourist attraction in Shenyang, Liaoning Province. It was the residence of Zhang Zuolin and his son Zhang Xueliang, built by Zhang Zuolin in 1914. Later, it was expanded to mainly include the large and small green buildings, the red building in the west courtyard, and the Zhang Fourth Miss Building.

The architectural designs vary, blending traditional Chinese architecture with European styles. Recognized as an outstanding modern architectural complex in China, it was designated as a cultural relic under the protection of the Shenyang Municipal People's Government in 1985. The father and son conducted political affairs here and held meetings with foreign dignitaries. You can catch a glimpse of their lives as they were swept up in the tides of history.

4. Shenyang Zhongshan Square

Located in the center of Shenyang, Zhongshan Square is a rotary where major roads like Zhongshan Road intersect. It was built in 1913 and was initially called "Central Square." In 1919, it became "Naniwa Square," and when the Kuomintang took control, it was renamed "Zhongshan Square." During the Cultural Revolution, it was called "Red Flag Square" until it reverted to "Zhongshan Square" in 1981, which is its current name.

Surrounding the square are banks, hospitals, and other facilities, many of which are buildings from the Japanese colonial period. This is a tourist spot where you can feel both the changes and the things that have remained unchanged through time. If you’re interested in the history of Manchukuo or post-war history, this is a must-add to your sightseeing list!

5. Shenyang September 18th History Museum

The Shenyang September 18th History Museum is a tourist spot located in Dadong District, Shenyang. It was built at the site of the Mukden Incident. The old building was completed in 1991, and the new one in 1999. This museum focuses on the events of the September 18th Incident in 1931 (known in China as the "September 18th Incident," internationally referred to as the Mukden Incident), triggered by the former Japanese military, and the subsequent history of Shenyang.

Inside the spacious museum, weapons used by the former Japanese military are on display. There are also many photographs that show the tragedies of war and the humiliation suffered by China. The museum features audio broadcast systems, video displays, and computer access rooms to help visitors easily understand the exhibits. It’s recommended to learn about the Mukden Incident before visiting. If you’re interested in World War II history, this is a must-see spot.

6. Shenyang Railway Station

Shenyang Railway Station, once called "Moukden Station" and "Fengtian Station," is a historic tourist destination. It is a central hub for several major railway lines, such as the Shenda Line, Shenshan Line, Shendan Line, Harbin-Dalian High-Speed Railway, and the Shenyang-Fushun Intercity Railway. As one of the largest railway stations in Northeast China, it sees a heavy flow of passengers daily.

In 1910, due to an increase in passengers, a new station building was constructed on the eastern side. The design was created by Ota Takeshi and Yoshida Sotaro, both disciples of Kingo Tatsuno. Their architectural design for Shenyang Station closely resembles Tokyo Station’s exterior. The station is now designated as a protected cultural relic in Liaoning Province. For railway enthusiasts, this is a must-visit tourist attraction in Shenyang.

7. Taiyuan Street Commercial Pedestrian Street

Taiyuan Commercial Street is a bustling shopping district located in the center of Shenyang. In addition to department stores, there are many specialty shops, attracting crowds of tourists and locals alike. The charm of Taiyuan Street lies in its impressive scale, stretching 3,950 meters in total length. It starts from Zhongshan Road in the north and extends all the way to Wenhuagong in the south. It’s no exaggeration to say that this is the busiest place in Shenyang!

Additionally, there are many shops here that sell fashionable clothes and bags aimed at young people. If you want to enjoy shopping during your visit to Shenyang, Taiyuan Street is highly recommended!

8. Shenyang Expo Garden

In 2006, Shenyang hosted the International Horticultural Exposition. Even after the exposition ended, visitors are still welcome to enter the site. Now known as Shenyang Expo Garden, it has become one of Shenyang’s most beautiful tourist attractions, drawing many visitors. Inside the expansive garden, you can enjoy beautiful flowers and scenic meadows. The garden also features uniquely designed towers and structures that are eye-catching. If you are interested in horticulture, this is a great place to add to your sightseeing itinerary!

9. Wu'ai Market

Wu'ai Market is a shopping and tourist destination located along Fengyutan. It is one of China’s five largest markets and the largest market in the Northeast Asia economic region. It is also a key wholesale market in China. Covering 167,000 square meters, Wu'ai Market has the highest volume of distribution in Northeast China. It serves as both a large-scale business distribution center and a unique local shopping spot.

Wu'ai Market mainly deals in clothing, making it an enjoyable place for tourists to shop. While its sheer size can be overwhelming, it’s worth the effort to explore! After sightseeing in Shenyang, Taiyuan Street is a good shopping choice, but Wu'ai Market is also highly recommended. Many stores close in the afternoon, so visiting in the morning lets you experience its bustling atmosphere.

10. Shenyang Dongling Park

Dongling Park is home to Fuling, the tomb of Nurhaci, the founding emperor of the Qing Dynasty, and his empress, Lady Yehe-Nara. Construction of Fuling began in 1629 and was completed in 1651. It has been restored several times and is now maintained as a park. Surrounded by mountains and water, and with lush trees, it’s a peaceful and quiet tourist destination.

Located east of Shenyang’s center, Fuling is also known as Dongling (Eastern Tomb). Behind Tianzhushan (Heavenly Pillar Mountain) flows a river, creating a tranquil setting. The tomb's construction makes full use of this natural landscape. For example, the approach to the tomb has 108 steps symbolizing the 36 "Heavens" and 72 "Earths," making it an important symbol of Fuling. After enjoying the attractions in the city center, relaxing at Dongling Park is a great option.

11. Shenyang Qipan Mountain

Shenyang Qipan Mountain is a tourist destination located about 30 km from the center of Shenyang. Its highlight is the scenery that changes with each season! In spring, you can enjoy blooming flowers and lush greenery; in summer, the cool waters; in autumn, the beautiful maple trees; and in winter, a snow-covered wonderland awaits you.

Long ago, it is said that a Taoist immortal enjoyed playing Go (Weiqi) here while appreciating the natural beauty. Because of this legend, the mountain was named Qipan Mountain (Chessboard Mountain). As a result, it is considered one of China's spiritual "power spots." The ability to enjoy both nature and history at once is one of the charms of traveling in China.

12. Wulihe Park

Shenyang Wulihe Park is a riverside amusement park stretching from Changqing Bridge in the east to Hunhe Bridge in the west. It extends about 400 meters from the Second Ring Road in the north to the banks of the Hunhe River in the south. With a total area of 94,000 square meters, it is Shenyang’s largest riverside park, combining culture, leisure, and entertainment.

The park is divided into several zones, including a natural scenic area, leisure area, entertainment area, and wetland ecological area. With its advanced design concepts, including a square with fountains, Wulihe Marina Square, and a central plaza, it is considered one of the best-designed parks in China. It’s a nice place to take a relaxing stroll in the afternoon!

13. Shenyang Financial Museum

The Shenyang Financial Museum stands on the site of a former bank established by Zhang Zuolin and his son Zhang Xueliang. The building was designed by a German architect and was designated as a "National Key Cultural Relic" in 1996. It is a large-scale museum, easy for tourists to explore. The exhibitions are divided into four categories: the history of financial development in Northeast China, the history of currency, a financial theme park, and interactive exhibits. One of the highlights is the display of realistic life-sized figures.

The exterior, featuring huge Roman-style columns at the main entrance, is also very striking and draws the attention of visitors. If you have time during your Shenyang visit, this is definitely a place worth checking out!

◎ Summary

Shenyang, home to historical tourist attractions like Shenyang Railway Station and the Zhang Family Marshal Mansion, is now also famous as the largest shopping area in Northeast China. On Taiyuan Street, you’ll find large department stores and world-renowned luxury brand shops. Wu'ai Market covers a vast area, making it feel almost like a theme park dedicated to shopping. Once known as Fengtian and the center of Manchukuo, Shenyang still retains traces of its past.

Visiting the magnificent Qing Dynasty imperial palaces is also a must when touring Shenyang. First-time visitors will likely be surprised by the city’s massive economic scale. Also, since temperatures can drop to between -20°C and -30°C in winter, it’s recommended to visit during summer!