Is It Safe to Visit Shenyang, China?

Shenyang, located in northeast China, is the capital city of Liaoning Province. With a population of around 8.3 million people, it’s the largest city in northeastern China and has a rich history that dates back over 2,000 years. Shenyang is a center for heavy industry and technological innovation, and it’s also home to many historical and cultural attractions, including the Shenyang Imperial Palace, Mukden Palace, and Liaoning Provincial Museum.

However, like many popular tourist destinations, there are concerns about safety and security in Shenyang. So is it safe to visit Shenyang? Let’s take a closer look.

The State of Crime in Shenyang

According to recent crime statistics, Shenyang is a relatively safe city to visit.

In 2019, the crime rate in Shenyang decreased by 7.84% compared to the previous year. Specifically, the number of reported criminal cases decreased by 8.06%, and the number of reported cases of theft and robbery decreased by 12.3% and 4.4%, respectively. These statistics suggest that the police in Shenyang are doing a good job of maintaining law and order in the city.

However, it’s important to note that crime can happen anywhere and at any time, so it’s always a good idea to take basic precautions when traveling, such as carry a photocopy of your passport and never leave your belongings unattended.

The Risk of Terrorism in Shenyang

Terrorism is a global concern, and like many cities worldwide, Shenyang is not immune to the threat of terrorist attacks.

However, the likelihood of experiencing a terrorist attack in Shenyang is relatively low. According to various travel advisories, there is no known recent history of terror attacks in the city. While this doesn’t mean that it will never happen, the Chinese government prioritizes national security, and in return, they take necessary precautions to ensure public safety.

Health Risks in Shenyang

Shenyang is generally considered safe when it comes to health risks. However, as with any densely-populated city, there may be some risks associated with pollution.

The air quality in Shenyang can be poor, especially during the winter months when coal is still widely used for heating. The annual average PM 2.5 concentration in Shenyang is above the World Health Organization’s recommended level, which can lead to some health risks.

To reduce your risk of respiratory problems, it’s recommended that you avoid outdoor activities on days when the air quality is particularly bad. You can download AQI (Air Quality Index) apps or keep yourself informed about the current air quality reports during your stay in Shenyang.

Conclusion

Overall, Shenyang is a safe city to visit. With its rich cultural heritage, vibrant nightlife, and delicious food, it is an exciting place to explore. However, tourists should always take precautions when traveling, follow health advice and social-distancing protocols, and exercise common sense.

Whether you’re traveling to Shenyang for business or pleasure, take the necessary safety measures and enjoy everything the city has to offer!

Insider’s Guide: Exploring Shenyang, China

Shenyang is the largest city in Northeast China and is the capital of Liaoning Province. Known for its rich history, the city has served as the capital of the Qing Dynasty and was also an important industrial center during the 20th century. Visitors to Shenyang can explore ancient temples, museums, and lush parks while also enjoying the modern amenities that the city offers. Here is a guide to the top attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions in Shenyang.

Local Attractions

1. Shenyang Imperial Palace: The Shenyang Imperial Palace served as the residence of the Qing emperors during the 17th century. Visitors can walk through the palace halls, admire stunning gardens, and view valuable artifacts such as ancient manuscripts and imperial robes.

2. Liaoning Provincial Museum: The Liaoning Provincial Museum is one of the largest and finest museums in China. It houses more than 100,000 items, including artifacts from the Qing dynasty, precious pottery, and bronze items.

3. Marshal Zhang’s Mansion: The mansion was once a residence for a high-ranking Chinese military general, which is now transformed into a cultural museum. It features beautiful Chinese gardens, stunning artwork, and intricate architecture.

4. Zhongshan Square: This historical spot is set around a large white granite pillar, the Monument to the Martyrs of Martyrs for the Restoration of China, which represents the history and culture of Shenyang.

Dining Spots

1. Traditional Dongbei Cuisine: Visitors in Shenyang should definitely try the local cuisine known as Dongbei, which features hearty meat dishes, stews, and soups.

2. Tiexiangbao Dumpling House: This restaurant makes excellent dumplings, including meat and vegetable fillings, and has a cozy, intimate atmosphere.

3. Lamb Barbecue Street: This street is lined with small vendors selling delicious lamb skewers, barbecued to succulent perfection.

Cultural Experiences

1. Puppet Manchurian Performance: Shenyang is also famous for its puppet shows. The performance combines live music, dance, and puppetry that bring a mesmerizing experience.

2. Shenyang Acrobatics: The acrobatics show in Shenyang is a must-see as it features jaw-dropping stunts and impressive choreography.

3. Opera Performance: Shenyang is also a great place to see traditional Chinese opera performances. The city is home to several theaters that host lively shows featuring colorful costumes and energetic music.

Local History

1. Mukden Palace: The Mukden Palace is a UNESCO world heritage site in Shenyang. It was the palace of the Qing Emperor during the 17th century. It is a great place to learn about the history and culture of Shenyang.

2. Zhaoling Mausoleum: The Zhaoling Mausoleum is the final resting place of Emperor Huang Taiji. It was built during the Qing Dynasty and features a fascinating museum that showcases local history.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

1. Shenfu New Town: Shenyang is famous for its large-scale urban planning projects, and Shenfu New Town is a remarkable example. Visitors can explore the well-designed and serene community built from scratch.

2. Fuling Tomb: Fuling Tomb is one of the most underrated tourist spots in China. It is a beautiful vast tomb complex, located in the outskirts of Shenyang, built for Huang Taiji, the second emperor of the Qing Dynasty.

3. Hunhe River Night Cruise: Shenyang is known for its picturesque Hunhe River, and one of the best ways to experience it is by going on a night cruise. Visitors can enjoy a romantic boat ride among the brightly lit-up CBD district.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Shenyang is a city rich in history and culture. By visiting the local attractions, experiencing traditional food and cultural performances as well as exploring off-the-beaten-path suggestions, visitors will gain a deep appreciation of what Shenyang has to offer. Whether visitors are interested in ancient temples or modern urban development, they will find something to love in this vibrant city.