Key Takeaways:
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Anshan blends natural beauty with spiritual landmarks, making it a rewarding travel destination in every season.
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From ancient temples to hot springs and mountain hikes, there’s always something to explore in Anshan no matter the time of year.
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This guide covers a balanced mix of cultural attractions, scenic escapes, and family-friendly activities for your trip planning.
Located in northeastern China’s Liaoning Province, Anshan is often called the “Steel Capital of China” due to its industrial roots. But beyond its economic legacy, Anshan boasts rich cultural traditions, natural beauty, and historical landmarks that travelers love. It’s home to the world’s largest jade Buddha, nestled in one of its most iconic temples. With four distinct seasons and plenty of year-round attractions, Anshan offers something for curious wanderers, nature lovers, and cultural enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re soaking in hot springs or hiking through scenic mountains, this city has surprises waiting for every type of visitor.
Table of Contents
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Explore Qianshan National Park
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Visit Jade Buddha Garden
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Relax at Tanggangzi Hot Springs
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Stroll Through 219 Park
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Discover the Anshan Museum
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Experience the Thousand Lotus Pagoda
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Try Night Eats at Anshan Street Food Markets
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Hike the Peaks of Jiulong Mountain
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Attend a Local Temple Festival
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Visit the Anshan Science and Technology Museum
1. Explore Qianshan National Park
Qianshan National Park is one of Anshan’s crown jewels, located just 17 kilometers southeast of the city. This expansive park is renowned for its stunning mountain scenery, serene temples, and tranquil walking paths. The name “Qianshan” translates to “Thousand Mountains,” referencing the rolling peaks that offer a spiritual retreat for both hikers and monks. With pagodas, pine forests, and panoramic views, it’s a year-round destination for nature and peace.
In the fall, Qianshan becomes a canvas of golden leaves, while in spring, cherry blossoms bloom along the mountain trails. During winter, light snowfall adds a magical stillness to the ancient stone stairways and temples. Summer is the busiest season, drawing families and tourists to escape city heat. No matter when you go, the mix of nature and culture makes Qianshan unforgettable.
2. Visit Jade Buddha Garden
The Jade Buddha Garden is a spiritual and cultural centerpiece of Anshan, housing the world’s largest jade Buddha statue. Carved from a single 260-ton piece of jade, the seated Buddha stands over six meters tall and embodies artistic mastery. Visitors come here year-round to admire its scale and symbolism, set against a peaceful temple backdrop. The surrounding complex also features smaller shrines, traditional Chinese architecture, and scenic pathways.
It’s not just a photo opportunity — many locals treat the garden as a place of daily meditation and reverence. In warmer months, the nearby lotus ponds come alive, and you might even witness monks chanting or ceremonies taking place. The interior temple halls offer warmth and shelter during colder days, making this a great stop regardless of season.
3. Relax at Tanggangzi Hot Springs
Tanggangzi Hot Springs, located a short drive from the city center, have been soothing locals and visitors for centuries. These naturally heated waters are rich in minerals and are believed to offer healing properties for the skin and joints. Bathhouses here range from modern spa resorts to more traditional open-air pools, letting guests soak in style. In winter especially, there’s nothing like sitting in a steamy spring with snow falling around you.
Beyond bathing, the area offers massage treatments, herbal therapies, and quiet gardens for relaxation. Many hotels in Tanggangzi provide all-inclusive spa experiences, making it a great place to spend a full day unwinding. Visiting in summer? You’ll still appreciate the cooling mountain air and the rejuvenating benefits of the springs.
4. Stroll Through 219 Park
219 Park is a local favorite, blending recreation, nature, and a dash of local history. The park is named in honor of a key date during the Korean War, and a military tank monument at the entrance serves as a reminder of Anshan’s role in regional history. But past the gates, you’ll find peaceful walking paths, lakes with paddleboats, and families flying kites year-round.
Spring and summer bring out vibrant flowers and energetic picnickers, while autumn adds a crisp beauty to the wooded trails. Winter offers a quieter atmosphere, ideal for serene walks or practicing Tai Chi with local residents. The park’s location near downtown makes it an easy visit on a short itinerary.
5. Discover the Anshan Museum
For a deeper look into the region’s rich past, the Anshan Museum offers a fascinating journey through local archaeology, history, and art. It houses over 30,000 items, from ancient pottery and bronze artifacts to modern steel-industry exhibits. The museum does a great job of balancing Anshan’s spiritual heritage with its industrial legacy, including exhibits on Buddhism, jade carving, and metallurgy.
The museum is well-maintained, air-conditioned, and accessible year-round. Guided tours are available in Chinese, but even without one, the displays are intuitive and visually rich. For families, there are often interactive exhibits and seasonal educational programs for children. Whether you’re escaping a rainy day or seeking cultural depth, this is a must-visit.
6. Experience the Thousand Lotus Pagoda
The Thousand Lotus Pagoda is a striking modern structure designed to symbolize peace, spirituality, and the elegance of Chinese design. Built in the shape of a blooming lotus flower, the pagoda sits on the shores of a scenic lake and is surrounded by tranquil gardens. Visitors often come here to take photos, meditate, or walk the paths that encircle the temple-like structure. The site is especially captivating during sunrise and sunset when the building reflects light beautifully off the water.
Throughout the year, the pagoda area hosts cultural performances, lantern events, and wellness gatherings like group meditation sessions. During spring, cherry blossoms bloom across the park, making it one of the most photogenic spots in the city. In winter, lights illuminate the pagoda for holiday festivals and local observances. Whether you’re spiritual or simply appreciate modern architecture, this is a standout destination in Anshan.
7. Try Night Eats at Anshan Street Food Markets
Anshan’s night food scene is a sensory overload in the best way possible. Food stalls and pop-up grills line the streets once the sun goes down, especially around the Tiedong District. Skewers of lamb, sizzling dumplings, scallion pancakes, and sweet rice treats tempt passersby as the city comes alive with flavor. Local specialties like Anshan’s spicy tofu and fried seaweed cakes offer an authentic taste of the region.
These markets are perfect for budget travelers and social explorers. You’ll often hear music playing and see locals sitting on low stools laughing over tea or beer. Winter evenings still buzz with food carts selling hot soups and grilled corn, making the markets a true year-round experience. Come hungry — and maybe bring an extra stomach.
8. Hike the Peaks of Jiulong Mountain
Jiulong Mountain, or “Nine Dragons Mountain,” offers an excellent hiking alternative to the more popular Qianshan range. It’s less crowded and more rugged, attracting outdoor lovers looking for a peaceful escape into nature. The trails vary from beginner to moderate difficulty, winding through forests, rock formations, and quiet temples tucked into the hills. It’s a refreshing way to get panoramic views of Anshan and surrounding countryside.
Hiking is popular here in spring and autumn when the temperatures are comfortable and visibility is clear. In the summer, early morning or late afternoon hikes help you avoid the heat, while winter brings a calm, snow-dusted stillness to the trails. Whether you’re in it for the views, the workout, or the quietude, Jiulong Mountain is a great pick for an authentic Anshan adventure.
9. Attend a Local Temple Festival
Temple festivals in Anshan are colorful, loud, and deeply rooted in tradition. Held throughout the year, especially around Chinese New Year and other lunar holidays, these events include parades, lion dances, incense rituals, and dramatic performances. One of the most well-attended festivals takes place at Qianshan’s temples, where thousands of pilgrims and tourists gather to pay respect and participate in community celebrations.
You don’t have to be religious to enjoy these experiences — just open to culture and fun. Try local foods made just for the festival, light incense alongside locals, and witness ancient ceremonies that have been passed down through generations. These festivals offer an immersive way to understand the city’s values, beliefs, and traditions — all while enjoying a festive atmosphere that welcomes everyone.
10. Visit the Anshan Science and Technology Museum
For something a bit more modern and interactive, the Anshan Science and Technology Museum is a fantastic place for curious minds. The museum features hands-on exhibits in areas like robotics, environmental science, astronomy, and geology. It’s especially popular with families and school groups but just as fun for adults who love to learn through exploration. The museum does a great job tying Anshan’s steel industry into scientific themes in an engaging way.
Many exhibits are bilingual (Chinese and English), and staff are often available to guide visitors through key displays. Seasonal exhibits rotate in and out, so there’s always something new to discover. Best of all, it’s open year-round and is a great option for rainy days or winter afternoons when outdoor attractions may be less appealing.
What to do if you have kids?
Anshan is incredibly welcoming to families and offers a wide range of kid-friendly activities. Parks like 219 and the Science and Technology Museum are excellent spots to entertain and educate at the same time. Hot springs like those in Tanggangzi are gentle and relaxing for kids, and many resorts cater to families with child-safe pools and amenities. Even the local temples and mountain trails have plenty of room for curious little explorers to roam safely.
Dining is also easy, with kid-approved dishes like steamed buns, fried noodles, and sweet milk teas widely available. Don’t be surprised if locals smile or offer treats to young visitors — the family-friendly culture here makes travel smooth and enjoyable for all ages.
Where can I find free events in Anshan China taking place this weekend?
To stay updated on all the free events happening in Anshan — whether it’s a street market, temple fair, outdoor concert, or cultural workshop — your best bet is https://planmyweekend.ai. This powerful tool tracks local event listings across the city and helps you plan a weekend full of fun without spending a dime. Just enter your location and the type of experience you’re looking for — and it’ll show you all the top-rated free happenings nearby.
Final Thoughts
Anshan may not dominate guidebooks or Instagram feeds, but it quietly delivers one of the most diverse travel experiences in northeastern China. Its sacred mountains, healing waters, modern museums, and friendly neighborhoods make it a perfect blend of the old and new. Whether you’re looking to hike, soak, eat, learn, or simply relax, Anshan offers something unique every month of the year. Consider this your sign to go explore it for yourself.
Author: Dejon Brooks
Dejon Brooks is an entrepreneur who founded Trend Watchers with his life savings. Aged 24, Dejon has turned Trend Watchers into a successful business. After reaching over 150M+ people on his personal accounts, he now spends his time growing Planmyweekend.ai
