Things To Do
in Chaoyang
Chaoyang is a historic prefecture-level city located in western Liaoning Province, bordered by plains and rolling hills. It blends traditional Northeast Chinese culture with growing modern amenities, old streets, and new parks. The city serves as a gateway to local ethnic heritage, crafts, and nearby natural scenery.
In all seasons, Chaoyang offers a mix of markets, temples, and riverfront views that reflect its regional character.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the Chaoyang Park, where you can enjoy a morning stroll surrounded by lush greenery. After that, visit the Chaoyang Museum of Urban Planning to learn about the city's fascinating history and development. Grab a local breakfast at a nearby eatery, sampling traditional baozi (steamed buns) and soy milk.
In the afternoon, head to the iconic CCTV Headquarters, an architectural marvel that dominates the skyline. Take a guided tour to understand its unique design and the significance it holds in modern architecture. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby café, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of the city.
As evening falls, explore the bustling Sanlitun area, famous for its nightlife and dining. Choose from a variety of restaurants to taste local and international cuisines, followed by a visit to one of the trendy bars. Enjoy live music or a cultural performance to wrap up your day.
Visit the Yonghe Temple, also known as the Lama Temple, one of the largest and most important Tibetan Buddhist monasteries in the world. Spend your morning marveling at its stunning architecture and intricate sculptures, and participate in a traditional prayer ceremony if you wish. Don't forget to take a moment to enjoy the serene atmosphere surrounding the temple.
After lunch, make your way to the Guozi Jian Temple, a lesser-known gem that offers insight into local religious practices. Wander through its peaceful grounds and observe the locals engaging in their spiritual routines. Grab a light snack from a street vendor nearby to refuel for the rest of the day.
In the evening, visit a traditional teahouse for an authentic Chinese tea experience. Engage with local tea masters as they demonstrate the art of tea preparation and partake in a tasting session of various types of tea. This tranquil setting is perfect for relaxation and reflection after a full day of exploration.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🧃Cup of coffee/tea | $2-4 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short distance) | $2-6 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $40-70 |
| 🎟️Museum or attraction entry | $5-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich Northeast cuisine and markets
- Gateway to nature and cultural heritage
- Can be crowded in peak seasons
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
- "Nǐ hǎo" - Hello
- "Xièxiè" - Thank you
- "Qǐng wèn" - Excuse me / May I ask
- "Wǒ chī sù" - I am vegetarian
- "Wǒ bù chī ròu" - I don't eat meat
- "Duìbuqǐ, zhège yào duōshǎo qián?" - Excuse me, how much is this?
- "Yǒu yīgè wèntí ma?" - Is there a problem?
- "Néng fùkuǎn ma?" - Can I pay by card?
Places to Visit in Chaoyang
Visit one of these nice places.
A photogenic mix of old stone walls, wooden storefronts, and lantern-lit lanes.
Calm water, willows, and morning light perfect for reflections.
Wide riverside path with locals cycling and dawn anglers.
Temple courtyards and red lanterns offering color and texture.
Vibrant colors and candid scenes of street life.
Food in Chaoyang
Chaoyang Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Pork and cabbage dumplings, served steamed or pan-fried at local eateries.
Must-Try!
Tender pork stewed with pickled cabbage for a tangy, hearty flavor.
A communal hot pot with seasonal vegetables and meats, ideal for colder days.
A simple, comforting stir-fry featuring potatoes, bell peppers, and onion.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling hub with fresh produce, noodles, and snack stalls.
Evening stalls offering skewers, dumplings, and local snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite nod or handshake; address people by surname until invited to use given name.
Wait for the host to start; avoid sticking chopsticks upright in bowls; say please/thank you.
Keep voice moderate in public; avoid sensitive topics; respect religious sites and quiet zones.
Safety
Tipping in Chaoyang
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not common in most Chinese cities; if given, small tips at tourist-focused services are appreciated but not expected.
Cash is widely accepted; mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are nearly universal in cities, with some merchants preferring cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with afternoon thunderstorms; carry water and sun protection; many outdoor sites are lush and green.
Comfortable temperatures with colorful foliage; ideal for city walks and photography.
Cold and dry to damp; expect snow in some years; indoor attractions are warm and cozy; use layers.
Mild temperatures with blooming trees; great for outdoor trails and markets.
Chaoyang at Night
Hiking in Chaoyang
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short to moderate hikes with views over the countryside; accessible by car.
Protected areas offering trails, birdwatching, and fresh scenery.
Airports
How to reach Chaoyang by plane.
A major regional hub about a few hours' drive from Chaoyang; offers domestic and some international flights.
A larger airport in nearby Jilin Province; reachable by highway or air for longer connections.
Coastal airport with broad domestic connections; longer trip from Chaoyang.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant ethnic group in the city.
Notable minority with cultural influences in some districts.
Small communities including Mongol and Hui populations in the wider region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular in schools and community leagues.
Common in parks and clubs.
Enjoyed locally with matches in community fields.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Chaoyang.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most dishes are meat-based, but you can find tofu and vegetable dishes; ask for 'qing shucai' (vegetarian) and avoid meat broths.