Dalian is back! I really don’t recommend going in September-October because it’s just too amazing～

Girls, I just got back from Dalian and can’t help but rave about it—I really don’t suggest you go now, because with fewer people, beautiful scenery, and plump seafood, the cost-performance ratio is ridiculously high. I’m afraid you’ll not want to go back to work! 😭

🌟 Why “not recommend” going in September-October?
1️⃣ Weather is perfect! 15-25℃ autumn filter
The sea breeze is refreshing during the day, perfect for wearing little dresses and taking photos without feeling sticky; at night, a light jacket is just right, making evening strolls super comfortable!
But the “autumn tiger” occasionally strikes (strong UV at noon), so sunscreen + sunglasses are a must! The seaside weather is changeable, remember to bring an umbrella.
2️⃣ Fewer people, beautiful scenery, almost private experience
The summer vacation kids are gone, and the National Day crowds haven’t arrived yet! At Xinghai Square, you can feed seagulls without fighting for a spot, and you can lounge anywhere on Jinshitan Beach.
The price of enjoying tranquility: some water activities are closed (sea water is cool in September, swim with caution).
3️⃣ Seafood overload! Freedom after the fishing season opens
Fishing season opens in September! Fresh sea urchins and crab roe full of yellow fat at Changxing Market, steam seafood for about ¥50 per person is a delight.
If you have a weak stomach, avoid raw marinated seafood.

🚩 4 days 3 nights “off-season” itinerary
Day 1: Romantic coastline
- Morning: Head straight to Xinghai Square to feed seagulls (seagull food ¥5 per pack), take photos of the century-old city sculpture and panoramic views of the cross-sea bridge.
- Afternoon: Take the cable car at Lotus Mountain Observation Deck (round trip ¥60), enjoy a 360° view of the mountain and sea connection, the sunset is breathtaking.
- Evening: Xinghai Square music fountain (check opening times!), then go to Jiaotong University night market for grilled squid and steamed jelly snacks.
Day 2: Artistic retro stroll
- Morning: Fisherman’s Wharf colorful houses + lighthouse, watch fishing boats unload, send postcards at Cat’s Sky City.
- Afternoon: Collect pebbles at Bangchuidao Island (the sea is super blue!), wear non-slip shoes to walk on the beach.
- Evening: Ride a gondola in Venice Water City, the European-style castle lights up like a movie scene, perfect for photos.
Day 3: Geological wonders tour
- All day: Jinshitan Geological Park (book tickets in advance!), check in at the “Divine Power Sculpture” strange rocks, stroll along the ten-mile golden coast collecting shells.
- Hidden activities: Wear Hanfu at Shengtang Lanshan for Tang-style photoshoots, experience fishing on a boat.
Day 4: City deep dive extras
- Choose one: Watch beluga whale shows at Tiger Beach Ocean Park, a top pick for families, or walk through the underwater tunnel at Sun Asia Ocean World (more romantic for couples).
- Lazy option: Take the old tram No. 201 ding-dong tour around the city, end at Donggang to watch the music fountain finale.

🦐 Food highlights and warnings
Must-eat (red list!)
- Seafood specialty: steamed seafood with original flavor, locals queue for it! Around ¥150 per person.
- Old restaurant: 30-year-old shop, three-flavor steamed jelly crispy outside and tender inside, about ¥60 per person and very filling.
- Mengge Steamed Jelly: fragrant sesame sauce flavor, a must-try snack at Erqi Square night market.
Avoid (black list)
- Overpriced seafood platters around scenic spots, better to pick fresh at the market!
- Russian-themed street nesting doll crafts, bargain hard to below 30% of the price.

💡 Sisters-only tips
1. Outfit: light-colored long dress + flat shoes (essential for walking along Binhai Road), bring a knit cardigan for morning and evening.
2. Accommodation: Near Zhongshan Square for convenient transport (hostels around ¥150 per person), sea view lovers choose high-floor hotels at Xinghai Square.
3. Transport: Buy subway tickets via mini-program, for distant spots like Jinshitan you can carpool (about 1 hour drive).
4. Solo travel safety: avoid deserted alleys at night, keep valuables in the hotel safe.

💌 Dalian in September-October is like a fairy tale kissed by autumn—seagulls, seafood, mountains and sea connected, all the romantic elements gathered! Take advantage of fewer crowds and falling flight and hotel prices, hurry and go～