Best Time to Visit Popular Destinations in Dandong, Liaoning, China
1. Benedictine Church
A beautiful Catholic church with unique French architecture; offers a serene escape from city life.
- Best Weather: Spring (March to May) for mild weather and blooming flowers
- Low Tourist Crowds: Avoids peak tourism season in summer (June to August)
- Festival Atmosphere: Visit during the International Dragon Boat Festival (June)
2. Dandong Bridge
A suspension bridge connecting Dandong and Sinuiju; offers stunning views of both cities.
- Clear Skies: Best in autumn (September to November) for clear skies and colorful foliage
- Sunrise or Sunset: Early morning for sunrise view or late afternoon for sunset
- Peak Tourist Season: Avoids peak tourist season in summer (June to August)
3. Dandong Gaolan Scenic Area
Features stunning cliffs and the Gaolan River; offers hiking and river cruises.
- Mild Weather: Spring (March to May) or Autumn (September to November)
- Hiking Conditions: Avoids rainy season (June to August)
- Scenic River Cruise: Optimal in fall when the leaves change color
4. Dandong City God Temple
An ancient temple dedicated to the city deity; offers a glimpse into local culture.
- Local Festivals: Visit during Chinese New Year (February) or Mid-Autumn Festival (September)
- Weather Conditions: Avoids cold winter months (November to February)
- Peak Tourist Season: Avoids peak tourist season in summer (June to August)
5. Dandong Sino-Korean Friendship Park
A peaceful park showcasing Korean culture; features statues and pavilions.
- Cultural Experience: Visit in spring (March to May) for blooming cherry blossoms
- Weather Conditions: Avoids rainy season (June to August)
- Peak Tourist Season: Avoids peak tourist season in summer (June to August)
6. Dandong Fishing Port
Busy port with unique fishing boats; offers a glimpse into local life.
- Local Life Observation: Visit in winter (December to February) for ice fishing
- Weather Conditions: Avoids rainy season (June to August)
- Peak Tourist Season: Avoids peak tourist season in summer (June to August)
7. Dandong Night Market
Lively market selling food, souvenirs, and local delicacies.
- Local Food Tasting: Visit in summer (June to August) for a variety of fresh produce
- Weather Conditions: Avoids cold winter months (November to February)
- Peak Tourist Season: Visit during Chinese New Year (February) for a festive atmosphere
8. Dandong Dragon Tower
A towering tower offering panoramic views of the city and river.
- Best Weather: Visit in autumn (September to November) for clear skies
- Sunrise or Sunset: Early morning for sunrise view or late afternoon for sunset
- Peak Tourist Season: Avoids peak tourist season in summer (June to August)
9. Dandong Jade Spring
Natural spring with healing properties; offers a relaxing escape.
- Best Weather: Visit in summer (June to August) for a refreshing break
- Healing Properties: Believed to have healing properties; drink the water or bathe in it
- Peak Tourist Season: Avoids peak tourist season in summer (June to August)
10. Dandong International Marathon
Annual marathon event attracting runners from around the world.
- Best Time to Run: Early October for the annual marathon event
- Training Conditions: Train in advance during mild weather (March to May, September to November)
- Cultural Exchange: Experience diverse cultures of international participants
11. Dandong Ice and Snow Festival
Festival showcasing ice sculptures, winter sports, and cultural performances.
- Best Time to Attend: January for the annual Ice and Snow Festival
- Winter Sports: Participate in winter sports such as ice skating or skiing
- Cultural Experience: Experience local culture and traditional performances
12. Dandong Lantern Festival
Festival featuring thousands of colorful lanterns lighting up the night sky.
- Best Time to Attend: February for the annual Lantern Festival
- Cultural Experience: Experience local culture and traditions during this festival
- Scenic Beauty: Enjoy the stunning display of lanterns against a starry sky
13. Dandong Dragon Boat Race
Traditional dragon boat race on the Yalou River; celebrates local culture.
- Best Time to Attend: June for the annual Dragon Boat Race
- Cultural Experience: Experience local culture and traditions during this event
- Scenic Beauty: Enjoy the scenic beauty of the Yalou River and surrounding areas
14. Dandong Fruit Market
Large market selling a variety of fresh fruits; popular for souvenirs.
- Best Time to Visit: Visit in summer (June to August) for a variety of seasonal fruits
- Shopping Experience: Buy fresh fruits as souvenirs or snacks
- Weather Conditions: Avoids cold winter months (November to February)
15. Dandong City Wall
An ancient city wall with a history dating back to the Ming Dynasty.
- Best Time to Visit: Visit in autumn (September to November) for mild weather
- Historical Significance: Learn about the history of Dandong and its relationship with Korea
- Scenic Beauty: Enjoy the scenic beauty of the surrounding area