Travel to China

Liaoning Provincial Museum

This treasure trove of relics and such is a true surprise in terms of scope. Considered as one of China's largest museums it houses more than 3,000 items of historical awe. The principal attraction is the skeletons of two mammoth dinosaurs, which spread out across the first floor. Visitors can also gape at classic Chinese paintings, pottery, porcelain, copperware and even embroidery, many of which date back to ancient times

Pagoda of Buddhist Ashes

Given the number of pagodas that freckle Shenyang's landscape this is the best of the lot in terms of architectural accomplishment. Built in during the height of the Liao dynasty, it ladders 13 stories tall  displaying the classic pyramidal design that pagodas are recognized for. Inside houses a display of original artifacts including a recently found gold-plated, copper Buddha figure. A major restoration took place a few years back making the pagoda very tourist friendly.

Summer Palace

This dome of fun caters to people in swim trunks. Twisting water slides, wading pools, and regular swimming areas for laps and floating on colorful tubes create a permanent mid-July atmosphere. The more serious minded can relax in the center's gym. And for true family convenience, the center offers several dining options.

Shengjing Ancient Cultural Street

This unique thoroughfare that fronts the Imperial Palace offers an amazing array of classic Chinese architecture from the Qing dynasty. The street is highlighted by the ornate Fujinmen Gate on the east end and the Huaiyuanmen Gate on the west end. Between the two gates, visitors can shop for souvenirs, paintings and calligraphy. The street also hosts many cultural festivities including dragon dancing and lantern shows.

Nanguan Catholic Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus

Seen a Catholic church in Shenyang is extrange enough, but when it exhibits classic Gothic-style architecture, it grades as a main tourist attraction. Builded in 1878 this building barely survived the Boxer Rebellion in 1900. Today it stretches 120 feet into the China sky, easily standing out in Shenyang's ho-hum industrial landscape. Visitors are welcome, but are asked to please respect the sanctity of the church during services.

Canal Water System Scenic Spot

This wandering thread of greenery is a perfect example of Shenyang's commitment to forget about its industrial past for an environment that is more people friendly and sane. Both banks of the South Canal offer walking paths that are bordered with perfect lawns, trees and flower gardens. The path system stretches for miles making it ideal for jogging and walking. The paths have numerous access points leading to Shenyang's shopping and dining options.

Sheli Pagoda

In a city that is not praised for its architecture style, this venerable pagoda provides visitors with a small, yet welcome feast for their eyes. Dating back more than 1,000 years, this Buddhist structure is one of the better preserved pagodas in the area. A courtyard surrounds the tower and also shares space with a small building full of photographs detailing other Chinese pagodas and stupas.

Loving Kindness Buddhist Temple

Originally built during the Tang dynasty, and then rebuilt during the Qing dynasty, it served as a place of worship until Mao's Cultural Revolution converted into a factory. In 1987 the factory moved out and the temple returned to being the home of Buddhist monks. Today visitors can walk the temple's courtyard and shop the surrounding alleys for Buddha statues and jewelry.

Beiling Park

The largest park in the area provides a good escape from downtown's industrial maw. Visitors during summer time can drift around its lake in big paddleboats, or rent ice skates during the winter. There are also plenty of scenic tree-thick walks. The park also harbors Shenyang's famous North Tomb, built in 1643. If you are a first time visitor to China, wander into the park at dawn to witness the hundreds of tai chi disciples.

Shenyang Steam Exhibition Hall

The biggest railroad museum in China. The Engine Exhibition Hall, houses 20 steam engines from all over the world. A DB1 miniature steam locomotive from America, the museum's oldest, dates back to 1907. And there is also a rare Japanese SL 7 steam locomotive builted by Suzuki. The Popular Science Exhibition Hall is also a crowd pleaser and is known to make visitors ponder about the marvels of machinery and why this museum is located in the Shenyang Botanical Garden.