Name: Dandong

Chinese name: 丹东

Province: Liaoning

Status: Prefecture-level city

Population: 2,390,000 inhabitants

Area: 14,910 km²

Situated opposite North Korea on the banks of the Yalu River, Dandong, in Liaoning province, attracts numerous tourists curious to catch a glimpse of the forbidding and desolate lands of this neighboring country.

History

Located in a border zone, Dandong has always been a fortress of considerable military importance for Chine. It was once called Andong.

Toward the end of the Ming Dynasty (1368–1644), the cessation of all communication with the outside world contributed to its decline.

In 1965, the city adopted its current name, Dandong, which means the Red East.

In 2001, Dandong was named China's best tourist city by the National Tourism Administration. In 2005, the same administration designated it the cleanest city.

Today

If you want to learn more about North Korea without setting foot there, Dandong is the ideal destination. You will encounter numerous North Koreans in the streets, conducting business or driving their trucks for deliveries. Many small street vendors will attempt to sell you North Korean stamps or other propaganda trinkets. The atmosphere in Dandong is unique and surprising, and well worth the visit in itself.

Dandong's primary appeal is undoubtedly its North Korean border. Simply strolling along the river, you will be struck by the stark contrast between the Chinese bank, lined with modern high-rises, and the desolate, lifeless land across the North Korean shore. The Friendship Bridge, which connects the two lands, is the only crossing over the river.

Cruise boats offer river excursions that allow you to get closer to the North Korean territories.

Some 25 kilometers from Dandong, you can reach a restored section of China's Great Wall. Little-visited, the Tiger Mountain Great Wall has the distinction of following the border. From the top of the wall, you can enjoy a fine view of the surrounding countryside. A small museum stands at the end of the visit and is worth a few minutes of your time.

Further afield, some fifty kilometers away, stands Mount Fenghuang, which rises to 840 meters. Dotted with temples and monasteries, the mountain promises a pleasant hike away from the bustle of the city.

Climate

Dandong's weather corresponds to a humid continental climate with very harsh winters and hot, humid summers.

The period from April to October is the best time to visit Dandong and avoid the biting cold of winter.

Air

Air traffic is limited for Dandong. Flights from Beijing, Shanghai, Sanya, and Shenzhen are nonetheless available regularly.

Train

Dandong's railway station makes the city accessible from Shenyang, Dalian, Beijing, Guangzhou, Qingdao, and Changchun.

Long-Distance Bus

Dandong welcomes buses from cities in the province as well as from Beijing.

Dandong's urban area is well served by buses. Around twenty routes cover the city to ensure good coverage.

Taxis are also part of the city's daily landscape, crisscrossing it in search of new passengers.

What to Do in Dandong?

• Observe the striking contrast between the Chinese bank and the North Korean bank during a stroll along the river facing the border.
• Walk a few meters across the Friendship Bridge that connects Chine to North Korea.
• Discover one of the quietest sections of the Great Wall along the border at the Tiger Mountain Great Wall.
• Set out on a hike up Mount Fenghuang.