Dalian Jinshitan Geological Park In-Depth Travel Guide

As one of Dalian's most distinctive coastal landscapes, Jinshitan National Geological Park is renowned for its unique geological formations and magnificent coastal scenery. The park entrance fee is 60 RMB, free for children under 1.3 meters, making it a natural wonder worth exploring in depth.

Tour Route Planning:
Start from the park entrance and follow the 1.7-kilometer hiking trail to the Nanxiu Garden shuttle stop. This route is especially suitable for geology enthusiasts and photography lovers, allowing close-up views of the uniquely sculpted reefs shaped by the waves. It is recommended to allocate 3-4 hours for the visit and wear comfortable sports shoes, as there are many steps in the park, making it unsuitable for strollers.

Core Scenic Highlights:
The park features numerous breathtaking natural attractions, including the iconic Dinosaur Exploring the Sea, the majestic General Rock, and the lifelike Dragon and Crocodile Battle. Particularly recommended are the folded rock layers and the Dan Cliff historical strata, natural wonders formed over hundreds of millions of years that are truly awe-inspiring.

Best Visiting Tips:
1. Visit on clear weather days, with the best lighting in the early morning or late afternoon.
2. Wear bright colors such as red, blue, white, or green for better photos.
3. Bring professional photography equipment, as mobile phones may not fully capture the charm of the scenery.
4. Among the beaches along the way, the one near the Turtle Back Rock is especially recommended as an excellent photo spot.

Transportation and Expenses:
After touring the main attractions, you can take a free shuttle bus to the Turtle Back Rock area. For the return trip, you can choose a 10 RMB shuttle or walk back the same way. Prices inside the park are reasonable, and goods at the endpoint are often more affordable. It is recommended to bring your own drinking water; ice pops, grilled sausages, and other snacks are available for purchase along the way.

Special Tips:
During the big tides on the first and fifteenth days of the lunar month, you can experience tide chasing fun in the Turtle Back Rock area. The weathered rock layers are fragile, so please follow park regulations and enjoy the view from designated viewing platforms to help protect this precious geological heritage.

The entire tour takes about 3-4 hours. It is recommended to plan your time reasonably and slow down to savor the natural wonders. Whether it is the unique geological landscapes or the vast sea and sky, Jinshitan Geological Park offers visitors an unforgettable visual feast.