These Places in Zhongshan District, Dalian Will Make You Never Want to Leave

In Dalian, this charming coastal city, Zhongshan District carries a profound heritage and exudes a unique cultural atmosphere. Now, let's explore its distinctive features in history, geography, culture, cuisine, and tourism. I. Historical Heritage: Memories Deposited by Time The history of Zhongshan District dates back to the Eastern Han Dynasty, when it was called "Sanshan" (Three Mountains), named after Sanshan Island outside Dalian Bay, referring to the mainland opposite the island. In the early Tang Dynasty, it was known as "Sanshan Port." Tang troops once stored grain and military equipment here, and during the Zhenguan era, it was renamed "Qingni Port." In the Ming Dynasty, it was called "Qingni Island," and during the Tianqi era, it was known as "Sanshan Sea Entrance." In the ninth year of Emperor Tongzhi's reign in the Qing Dynasty, the name "Qingniwa" appeared, derived from its low-lying coastal location and bluish-black mud. In 1898, Russia forcibly leased Dalian and built "Dalny" city in Qingniwa the following year. After the Russo-Japanese War, Japan occupied and renamed it Dalian. When Dalian was liberated in 1945, Heizikou District was renamed Zhongshan District in memory of Dr. Sun Yat-sen, and in 1959, the current district boundaries were established. II. Geography and Population: The Vitality of a Mountain and Sea City Zhongshan District is located in the eastern part of Dalian, bordered by the Yellow Sea on three sides (east, south, and north) and adjacent to Xigang District on the west. It has a land area of 47.41 square kilometers, a sea area of 1,443 square kilometers, and a total coastline and island shoreline of 42.53 kilometers. The central and southern parts of the district feature rolling hills, the northwest is flat, and the southeast consists of low mountains and hills. The climate is pleasant with an average annual temperature of 11.8°C. As of 2024, the district has 143,500 registered households with a registered population of 365,100 and approximately 389,000 permanent residents. It administers 6 streets and 53 communities, creating a rich living atmosphere. III. Cultural Customs and Cuisine: A Blend of Diversity and Delicacies The district is home to 16 ethnic groups, with diverse cultures merging to form a unique cultural atmosphere. Seafood is the most tempting cuisine, with tender oysters, plump crabs, shrimp, as well as precious sea cucumbers and abalones—all gifts from the sea. IV. Tourist Attractions: Charming Destinations Zhongshan Square is the largest circular square in Northeast China, originally built in 1899 as "Nikolayev Square" and renamed in 1951. Ten historical buildings with diverse architectural styles witness the changes of the times and are listed among China's 20th Century Architectural Heritage. Haiyun Park features a 1,200-meter coastline where vast sea views and lush mountains line the coastal walkway, with unique attractions like the Strange Slope amazing visitors. Laohutan (Tiger Beach) Polar Ocean World combines exhibitions, performances, and science education, allowing close observation of polar animals like polar bears and penguins, and featuring spectacular marine animal shows—a great place for family trips. Yanwo Ridge Scenic Area is a wedding-themed park, named after the black swallows that nest there. The park's wedding sculptures, swing garden, and other romantic attractions, along with stunning coastal scenery, are breathtakingly beautiful. Zhongshan District, this brilliant pearl in eastern Dalian, awaits exploration of its unique charm through its history, scenery, and cuisine.