Slideshow: Dalian

Dalian is one of China’s premier beach destinations, outside of Hainan Island. But don’t expect to come back with a tan — even in July, Dalian can be cloudy and cool. (If you’re from Northern California, this may remind you of home.) At Xinghai Park, ostensibly the largest public square in Asia, you won’t even be able to sit out on the sand, as the beachfront is all paved. But there are plenty of boardwalk-style games and rides to keep you occupied. For a more natural setting, head to Bangchuidao Beach, outside of the city itself.

Not a beach person? Dalian still has something to offer. Like Shanghai and Tianjin, Dalian was a treaty port — in this case, one controlled by the Russians. While most of the city is filled with huge modern skyscrapers, the Russian Culture Street and its surrounding neighborhood preserve some Russian-style architecture. And if you’re craving a souvenir, plenty of Han Chinese vendors will be happy to sell you “traditional” matryoshka dolls.

The slideshow’s not a slideshow this week — Picasa is blocked in China at the moment, so I’ve had to put the photos directly into the post. If you’re not in China, you can still view previous slideshows at To China and Beyond’s Picasa page.

Dalian's skyline, viewed from Xinghai Square.

As at all the best beach destinations, you can play bumper cars.

Head to Bangchuidao Beach to get away from the city.

It's a popular spot for wedding photographs.

Or just sitting on the not-too-hot beach.

At Russian Culture Street, you can see Dalian's past as a treaty port.

Buildings like this are not so common in China.

Russian culture = matryoshka dolls?

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Tagged as: Dalian, slideshow