Xinghai Park

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Description

Xinghai Park in Dalian is one of those places that just sticks with you. The kind of place where the salty air, the sound of waves, and the laughter of families blend into something you can almost feel in your bones. Established back in 1909 by the South Manchuria Railway Company, it started out as a seaside resort called “Hoshi-ga-Ura” — or “Star Beach” in Japanese. The name fits, honestly. Even now, more than a century later, there’s a certain sparkle to the place, especially when the evening light hits the water just right.

It’s a coastal park that manages to be both peaceful and lively. You’ll find locals strolling along the beachfront promenade, couples taking photos against the bay, and kids chasing bubbles near the playground. And then, out of nowhere, you’ll spot someone bungee jumping off the platform over the bay — yes, you read that right. It’s not every day you see someone diving toward the sea with the city skyline behind them. I remember the first time I saw it; I nearly dropped my ice cream.

The park stretches along the coast of Dalian’s Shahekou District, and it’s got a little bit of everything: a sandy beach, a small aquarium, walking trails, and even a skateboarding area tucked near the promenade. It’s the kind of place where you can go for a quiet morning walk or spend an entire afternoon people-watching. The air feels cleaner here, and the mood is easygoing — the kind of atmosphere that makes you slow down without even realizing it.

It’s not perfect, of course. On weekends, it can get crowded, especially when the weather’s nice. But somehow, that adds to its charm. There’s a sense of shared enjoyment, a collective appreciation for the sea breeze and the simple pleasure of being outdoors. And if you visit on a weekday morning, you might just find yourself with a stretch of promenade all to yourself — just you, the waves, and the occasional jogger passing by.

Key Features

• Beautiful beachfront promenade ideal for walking, jogging, or just watching the sunset
• Bungee jumping platform offering thrilling views over the bay
• Small aquarium showcasing local marine life, great for families
• Designated skateboarding area and open spaces for casual sports
• Playground and swings for children, making it a family-friendly destination
• Wheelchair-accessible entrances and parking for easier access
• Public restrooms conveniently located throughout the park
• Kid-friendly hiking paths with gentle slopes and shaded areas

Best Time to Visit

If you ask me, the best time to visit Xinghai Park is late spring through early autumn. Around May to October, the weather in Dalian is mild, and the sea breeze feels amazing. Summer brings a festive energy — street food vendors, families picnicking, and the occasional beach concert. But if you prefer quieter moments, early mornings in September are unbeatable. The crowds thin out, the air turns crisp, and the light over the bay is downright cinematic.

Winter isn’t off-limits, though. I’ve walked there in January, bundled up in layers, watching the waves crash against the rocks. It’s calmer, moodier, and oddly peaceful. You won’t find bungee jumpers then, but you will find a kind of solitude that’s hard to come by in city life. So, really, it depends on what you’re after — energy or tranquility. Xinghai Park has both, just at different times of the year.

How to Get There

Getting to Xinghai Park is pretty straightforward. Dalian’s public transportation system is efficient, and several bus routes stop near the park entrance. If you’re staying downtown, it’s just a short taxi or ride-share away — maybe 15 minutes on a good day. For those who prefer public transit, the metro is another easy option, with stations nearby that connect directly to major parts of the city.

If you’re the kind of traveler who enjoys walking, you can even make a day of it by exploring nearby attractions like Xinghai Square or the Dalian Natural History Museum before heading to the park. The walk along the coast between these spots is relaxing and full of photo-worthy views. Just make sure to wear comfortable shoes — the promenade seems short until you realize you’ve been wandering for hours.

Tips for Visiting

First things first: bring comfortable shoes. The park’s pathways are long, and you’ll want to explore them all. If you’re planning to walk along the beach, a pair of sandals or water-friendly shoes will make life easier. And don’t forget sunscreen — the sea breeze can be deceiving, and I’ve learned the hard way that even on cloudy days, you can end up a little sunburned.

For families, mornings are the best time to visit. The playground area is quieter, and the aquarium tends to open early. If you’re into photography, come just before sunset. The golden light spilling over the bay is something else — the kind of view that makes you pause mid-step. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try the bungee jump. It’s not for the faint of heart, but the adrenaline rush and the view make it totally worth it.

Food-wise, there are small stalls and cafes nearby, but I usually pack a few snacks and a bottle of water. There’s something special about sitting on a bench, munching on fruit or local pastries, and just watching the waves roll in. If you’re traveling with kids, bring a kite — the open spaces near the promenade are perfect for it, and you’ll see plenty of locals doing the same.

Accessibility is another plus. The park is wheelchair-friendly, with smooth paths and accessible restrooms. Even the viewing areas are designed so everyone can enjoy the sea views comfortably. It’s one of those places that genuinely tries to welcome everyone, and you can feel that in the details.

One last thing — don’t rush it. Xinghai Park isn’t the kind of place you “do” in an hour. It’s a place to linger, to breathe, to let time slow down a bit. Whether you’re watching kids play, admiring the waves, or just enjoying a quiet walk, you’ll find that the park has a way of grounding you. Maybe that’s why so many locals keep coming back. It’s not just a park — it’s a reminder of how good simple moments can be.

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