Cheap Flights To Shenyang

The largest city in China's northeast Liaoning Province and also the capital city, Shenyang boasts an intriguing history and offers visitors to the region a plethora of attractions and activities. Translated, the city's name literally means 'the Yang side of the Shen River', due to its proximity to the Shen River, which is now named the Hun River. Remains unearthed by archaeologists show human occupation some 8,000 years ago, however, the city was founded circa 300 BC by General Qin Kai, conqueror of the Liaodong region and was subsequently named Hou City.

Today, this sprawling metropolis is home to more than six million inhabitants and serves as one of China's most important commercial and industrial hubs. Nonetheless, the city's heritage is carefully preserved and a host of museums containing significant artefacts sit alongside the dominating skyscrapers and imposing hotels. Visit the Huanggu District and explore the charming recreated village of the Xinle culture, a community built during the late Neolithic period. Alternatively, plan your trip to coincide with one of the many festivals celebrated in the region, such as the International Dragon Boat Race which is hosted in June, where brightly coloured and flamboyant dragon boats race along the river.

Things To Do

This glorious city is renowned for its myriad of attractions and activities; from dining in one of the many fine restaurants to exploring one of the many museums or beautiful Chinese gardens.

• Eat like a local

Serving recipes which date back for more than 160 years, the Laobian Jiaozi Guan Restaurant (Laobian Dumpling Restaurant) serves up offerings of delicious filled dumplings, the signature dish of the region.

• For the history and culture lovers

Explore the impressive Shenyang Imperial Palace. This fine building was the fourth royal base of the Qing Dynasty and Spans 60,000 square miles. The Mongol, Manchu and Tibetan styled architecture also houses a museum and represents the golden era of Chinese royal heritage.

• Get back to nature

Admire the flora and fauna at the International Horticultural Expo Garden. Sprawling more than 254 hectares, these fine gardens, of which there are 50 in total, contain more than 600 varieties of flowers, including six million tulips.

Calander Of Events

The inhabitants of Shenyang know how to celebrate and the region boasts an impressive line up of festivals and events throughout the year. Choose from music festivals to dragon boat racing and even a festival celebrating ice and snow.

• Shenyang International Dragon Boat Race: Hosted in June, the International Dragon Boat Race features elaborate and brightly coloured dragon boats competing to race down the river. The event is family-friendly and festival goers include the locals and visitors alike.

• International Ice And Snow Festival: The International Ice and Snow Festival is one of the largest festivals in the country. Hosted in January, snowboarding, skiing, figure skating and bobsledding are just a few of the events in which competitors take part.

• Shenyang International Music And Fireworks Festival: Hosted in August, the International Music and Fireworks Festival includes live performances from China artists and beyond and is a celebration of all musical genres. Each performance is accompanied by an impressive firework display.