Name: Shenyang

Name in Chinese: 沈阳市

Province: Liaoning

Status: Sub-Provincial City

Population: 8,100,000

Area: 13,000 km²

Capital of Liaoning province, Shenyang is a large, vibrant urban center. Its constant flow of pedestrians and vehicles might make your head spin, but once you look past all that frenzy, Shenyang reveals itself through beautiful historical remnants from the Manchu era and impressive modern buildings.

History

Originally a Mongol trading hub, Shenyang became the capital of the Manchu Empire in 1625 under Nurhachi, founding father of the Qing dynasty.

In 1644, after the Manchus conquered Beijing, Shenyang was relegated to secondary capital status. It was subsequently renamed Fengtianfu.

In 1900, the city fell under Russian forces who occupied it. In 1905, Russia withdrew following its defeat by Japan in the Russo-Japanese War.

In 1911, the Qing dynasty collapsed following the Chinese Revolution. Fengtian then became the seat of Manchu warlords.

In 1929, Fengtian was renamed Shenyang. The city was alternately occupied by Japanese and Russian forces before coming under the control of the Chinese Communist Party in 1948.

Today

The city of Shenyang may seem overwhelming, intense, and bustling, but beneath this façade of a developed metropolis lies a city steeped in history.

Despite the urbanization that has evolved over time, the city has managed to preserve some of its historical treasures. The Imperial Palace, one of the principal attractions, stands as one of the most significant witnesses to its imperial past. This complex of pavilions, halls and gardens perfectly testifies to the history of the Qing dynasty and reveals the cultural traditions of the Manchus. You'll discover richly decorated rooms, former royal family apartments, and can stroll through well-maintained paved courtyards and small gardens.

In the heart of Beiling Park stands the mausoleum of the founder of the Qing dynasty, Huang Taiji. Known as the Zhaoling tomb or the Northern Tomb, the site exudes an almost palpable serenity.

To the east rises the smaller Fuling tomb or Eastern Tomb. Built in typically imperial architecture, this mausoleum of Nurhachi and his consort is exceptionally well preserved and now stands on the UNESCO World Heritage list of imperial tombs of the Ming and Qing dynasties.

Another notable landmark is the Buddhist Ash Pagoda, which rises 13 stories amid lovely gardens. It offers a peaceful leisurely stroll.

To escape the city's stifling frenzy, don't miss the magnificent Shenyang Botanical Garden, which houses numerous plant species native to northeast Chine.

While the city is not a tourist destination in itself, it nonetheless offers considerable attractions that allow you to learn more about the region's history.

Climate

Shenyang has a humid temperate climate influenced by monsoons. Its average annual temperature hovers around 9°C. Summers are not overly hot, averaging 24.5°C in July. Winters, by contrast, are very cold with an average of -11.5°C in January.

The heaviest precipitation is primarily recorded in July and August. Humidity in the city is very high during this period.

The best time to visit Shenyang is from September to October or May to June.

By Air

Shenyang's Taoxian International Airport operates flights to and from Beijing, Shanghai, Xi'an, Guangzhou, Harbin, Guilin, and Shenzhen.

International flights are available to/from South Korea and Japan.

By Train

Shenyang is a major transportation hub with two large railway stations. They connect Shenyang to most major Chine cities including Beijing, Shanghai, Xi'an, Dalian, and Harbin.

Long-Distance Bus

Shenyang has good road connections, making it easily accessible by bus from cities in the region.

Buses from Beijing and Harbin also serve the provincial capital.

Since 2010, the city has had two metro lines.

An extensive bus network allows you to navigate the city far and wide. Taxis are also readily available to take you to sites of historical interest.

What to Do in Shenyang?

• Travel back in time at the Shenyang Imperial Palace and discover the royal family apartments.
• Escape the city's pollution in the sprawling Shenyang Botanical Garden.
• Visit the Zhaoling Tomb and the Fuling Tomb to pay tribute to two great emperors of the Qing dynasty.