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  • Category: Travel

Xinghai Park is a historic seaside park located in the Shahekou District of Dalian, Liaoning Province, on the southwestern side of the city, west of the famous Xinghai Square . Covering an area of 15 hectares (150,000 square meters), it is the city's largest coastal park, combining a landscaped garden with a seawater bathing beach .

History and Name Origin

The park was originally established in 1909 by the South Manchuria Railway Company and was initially named "Hoshi-ga-Ura" (Star Beach) or "Xinggepu Amusement Park" . It was renamed Xinghai Park in 1945 .

The name "Xinghai" (Star Sea) originates from a legendary rock, known as the "Star Stone" or "Celestial Stone," which protrudes from the water in the bay . According to local folklore, the star stones were cast down by a celestial deity to defeat a malevolent shark spirit, restoring peace to the area . The bay was subsequently named "Xinghai Bay," and the park took its name from this legend .

Layout and Attractions

Xinghai Park is divided into several areas, including a sightseeing zone, a rest area, a children's playground, and the bathing beach . The bathing beach stretches for about 800 meters and is one of Dalian's four major beaches .

Key attractions and features include:

  • Sun Asia Ocean World: A marine aquarium featuring an underwater tunnel, the first of its kind in China, offering close-up views of marine life .
  • Thrill Rides: The park features a 55-meter-high sea bungee jump from New Zealand, one of the world's most luxurious, and a long cross-sea zip line from Canada .
  • Scenic Viewpoints: The park has cliffs at both ends, offering panoramic views of the bay. An "Exploring the Sea Cave" (Tanhai Cave) allows visitors to descend steps to see the sea-spray up close .
  • Structures: The park contains pavilions and walkways, with attractions like the "Xinghai Water Park" featuring water slides and pools .

Visitor Information

  • Address: No. 634, Zhongshan Road, Shahekou District, Dalian .
  • Opening Hours: The park is open 24 hours a day, year-round .
  • Admission: The park is free to enter, though individual attractions and facilities charge a fee .
  • Transportation: The park is accessible via Dalian Metro Line 1 (get off at the Second Hospital of Dalian Medical University Station or Xinghai Square Station) and numerous bus routes, including 22, 23, and 202 .

Tour Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dFRHXZsvDkQ