White Pagoda • Guangyou Temple • 2,300 Years of History
Liaoyang (辽阳) is one of the oldest cities in Northeast China, with over 2,300 years of continuous habitation—older than Shenyang by centuries. It served as the "Eastern Capital" (东京, Dongjing) during several dynasties and was a major administrative center during the Yan (3rd century BC), Liao (907–1125), Jin (1115–1234), and Qing (1621–1625 under Nurhaci) Dynasties. The city is most famous for the White Pagoda (辽阳白塔), a towering 71-meter Liao Dynasty brick pagoda built around 1069 AD that is one of the tallest and best-preserved Liao monuments in China. Adjacent is the Guangyou Temple (广佑寺), founded in the Eastern Han Dynasty (67 AD, over 1,950 years ago) and home to five world records including the world's largest wood Buddha. Liaoyang also preserves the Tokyo City Ruins (东京城遗址, Nurhaci's capital 1621–1625), the Han-Wei Tomb Murals (汉魏壁画墓群, 1,800-year-old painted tombs), cultural sites related to Cao Xueqin (author of Dream of the Red Chamber, 曹雪芹), and the Memorial Hall of Wang Erlie (王尔烈纪念堂, a famous Qing scholar). Despite its extraordinary historical density—comparable to Xi'an or Luoyang—Liaoyang receives almost no foreign tourists and preserves an authentic old-city atmosphere. Just 30 minutes from Shenyang by train, it's one of the easiest and most rewarding day trips in Northeast China, offering a deep dive into China's ancient northeast that most travelers entirely miss.
The White Pagoda (辽阳白塔, Liaoyang Baita) is a 71-meter-tall octagonal brick pagoda built around 1069 AD during the Liao Dynasty (907–1125), making it one of the tallest and best-preserved Liao Dynasty pagodas in China. It is recognized as one of the "Six Great Ancient Pagodas of China" (全国六大古塔), alongside the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda (Xi'an) and the Iron Pagoda (Kaifeng). The pagoda has 13 tiers with exquisite brick carvings on each level: Buddhas in meditation poses, bodhisattvas with lotus flowers, guardian warriors (lokapala) in fierce expressions, and intricate lotus patterns—each brick was individually carved before assembly. The pagoda's white plaster finish (reapplied in the Ming Dynasty, still intact) gives it its name and makes it glow golden at sunset. The pagoda sits within Baita Park (白塔公园, 20 hectares), a pleasant green space with ancient trees, a koi pond, and morning exercise groups. The park also contains a "Liao Dynasty Relic Gallery" (辽代文物展厅, ¥10) displaying artifacts found during pagoda restoration (including a Liao-era stone Buddha head and ceramic burial figures). The pagoda survived the 1975 Haicheng earthquake (magnitude 7.3, 30 km south of Liaoyang) with only minor cracks—a testament to Liao engineering. Allow 45 minutes to 1 hour. The best photography is at sunset (30 min before dusk) when the white bricks glow golden. The pagoda is illuminated at night (18:00–21:00)—the 13-tier silhouette against the dark sky is one of Liaoyang's iconic views. Visit on a weekday morning (8:00–9:00 AM) to see locals practicing tai chi and calligraphy with water brushes on the ground.
Hours: 8:00–17:00 (pagoda); park always accessible (24/7).
Admission: ¥10 (pagoda); park free.
Getting there: Located at Baita Park, Zhonghua Avenue (中华大街), Liaoyang city center. Bus #1, #3, #5 to Baita Gongyuan Station (白塔公园站, 10 min, ¥2). Taxi from Liaoyang Station ¥6–8 (8 min). The pagoda is a 5-minute walk from Guangyou Temple.
Tip: The pagoda is one of China's "Six Great Ancient Pagodas"—alongside Xi'an's Giant Wild Goose Pagoda. Sunset (30 min before dusk) is the best photo time—the white bricks glow golden. Illuminated at night (18:00–21:00). Visit on a weekday morning (8:00–9:00 AM) for tai chi practitioners. The "Liao Dynasty Relic Gallery" (¥10) inside the park is worth 20 minutes. The pagoda is a 5-minute walk from Guangyou Temple and the museum—combine all three.
Guangyou Temple (广佑寺) is one of the oldest Buddhist temples in China, with its founding dating to the Eastern Han Dynasty (67 AD)—making it contemporary with the White Horse Temple in Luoyang (the first Buddhist temple in China, also 67 AD). According to historical records, the temple was built shortly after Buddhism first entered China from India, making it among the earliest Buddhist establishments in the entire country. The temple was destroyed and rebuilt multiple times over 1,950+ years, with the current structures dating to a 2002 reconstruction. Guangyou Temple holds five world records recognized by the Shanghai World Records headquarters: 1) the world's largest bluestone archway (青石牌坊, 16.9m tall × 34m wide, carved from 95 pieces of solid stone, weighing 1,200 tons); 2) the world's largest bronze incense burner (青铜香炉, 12m long × 1.2m tall × 2.9m wide); 3) the world's largest Mahavira Hall (大雄宝殿, 11,000 m² floor area)—the largest indoor worship hall in the world; 4) the world's largest seated wood Buddha (木雕释迦牟尼佛坐像, 11 meters seated, 17 meters including the pedestal, made from 500+ cubic meters of camphor wood, weighing 320 tons); and 5) the world's largest beautiful jade Buddha (最大木雕贴金佛像, 11m). The "Ten Thousand Buddha Hall" (万佛堂) houses 10,000+ miniature Buddhas in wall niches. Allow 1–1.5 hours. The archway at the entrance is the best photo spot—it's the world's largest of its kind. The camphor wood scent inside the Mahavira Hall is soothing. Visit in the morning (8:00–10:00 AM) for morning chanting ( monks chanting sutras, 8:00–8:30 AM).
Hours: 8:00–16:30 (April–October); 8:30–16:00 (November–March).
Admission: ¥20 (including all halls).
Getting there: Located at 60 Zhonghua Avenue Section 1 (中华大街一段60号), adjacent to the White Pagoda. A 5-minute walk from Baita Park. Taxi from Liaoyang Station ¥6–8 (8 min). The temple is 500 meters from Liaoyang Museum.
Tip: The bluestone archway (青石牌坊, 16.9m) is the world's largest—best photo spot at the entrance. The camphor wood Buddha (11m seated, 17m including pedestal) is the world's largest seated wood Buddha—the wood scent is soothing. Morning chanting (8:00–8:30 AM) is atmospheric. The "Ten Thousand Buddha Hall" (万佛堂) houses 10,000+ Buddhas in wall niches—allow 20 minutes. The temple is a 5-minute walk from the White Pagoda—combine both. The Mahavira Hall (大雄宝殿) has the world's largest indoor worship space (11,000 m²).
Tokyo City (东京城, "Eastern Capital City") was built by Nurhaci (努尔哈赤, 1559–1626), the founder of the Qing Dynasty, in 1621 after he conquered Liaoyang from the Ming Dynasty. It served as his administrative capital for four years (1621–1625) before he moved the capital to Shenyang (Mukden), where the famous Shenyang Imperial Palace (沈阳故宫) was built. The site preserves: the foundation of the original palace (天眷殿, "Tianjuan Hall," 800 m² stone platform with 48 pillar bases, where Nurhaci held court); 2.5 km of restored city walls (8 meters tall, 6 meters wide at the base, faced with stone and topped with brick battlements—original Ming-Qing construction techniques); four gate towers (the South Gate 南门 is fully restored and climbable—climb to the top for panoramic views of the site); and the "Tokyo City Museum" (东京城博物馆, free entry) with artifacts including Ming Dynasty weapons captured by Nurhaci, Qing Dynasty armor, and a scale model of the 1621 city. The site is especially atmospheric at sunset (30 min before dusk) when the walls cast long shadows across the grassland—you can almost imagine Nurhaci's soldiers marching through the gates. Allow 1–1.5 hours. The site receives very few visitors—you might have the entire ruin to yourself on a weekday. The Tokyo City ruins are a direct link between Liaoyang and Shenyang: Nurhaci governed from here (1621–1625), then moved to Shenyang (1625), where the Qing Dynasty continued its rise to power. This is the "missing chapter" of Qing Dynasty history that most tourists skip.
Hours: 8:00–17:00 (April–October); 8:30–16:30 (November–March).
Admission: Free.
Getting there: Located 3 km east of Liaoyang city center. Bus #7, #12 to Dongjingcheng Station (东京城站, 15 min, ¥2). Taxi ¥10–12 (10 min). The ruins are 1 km from the "Tokyo City" bus stop.
Tip: The South Gate (南门) is fully restored—climb to the top for the best views of the site. The "Tokyo City Museum" (东京城博物馆, free) has a scale model of the 1621 city—allow 30 minutes. Visit on a weekday morning (9:00–11:00 AM) for solitude—you might have the entire ruin to yourself. The site is especially atmospheric at sunset (30 min before dusk). This is the "missing chapter" of Qing history—Nurhaci governed here before moving to Shenyang. The ruins are a 10-minute taxi from the city center.
The Liaoyang Museum (辽阳博物馆, opened 1985, expanded 2008) is housed in the "Peng Family Mansion" (彭公馆, Peng Gongguan)—a beautifully preserved Qing Dynasty (1830, 180+ years old) courtyard mansion that was the residence of a wealthy merchant family. The mansion itself is a museum piece: 5 connected courtyards with carved wooden beams, brick sculptures, and traditional garden (rockeries, bamboo, koi pond). The museum covers 8,000 m² across 8 galleries: the "Warring States Gallery" (战国馆) with artifacts from the Yan Dynasty (3rd century BC, when Liaoyang was the "Liaodong Commandery" capital); the "Liao-Jin Gallery" (辽金馆) with ceramics, Buddhist statues, and architectural tiles from the Liao and Jin Dynasties (foundations of Liaoyang's multicultural past); the "Qing Dynasty Gallery" (清馆) with furniture, calligraphy, and jade from the Qing merchants; and the "Cao Xueqin Corner" (曹雪芹角落) with materials about Liaoyang's connection to the author of Dream of the Red Chamber (曹雪芹's ancestors lived in Liaoyang before the family decline). The museum's most famous artifact is the "Liao Dynasty Gilt-Bronze Buddha" (辽代鎏金铜佛, 12th century, 40 cm)—a masterpiece of Liao metalwork. Allow 1.5–2 hours. Free admission requires passport or Chinese ID. The museum is a 10-minute walk from the White Pagoda—easy to combine both on the same morning. The museum has good Chinese signage with some English translation. The "Peng Family Mansion" courtyard (彭公馆) is one of the best-preserved Qing merchant houses in Northeast China—allow 30 minutes to explore the mansion itself.
Hours: 9:00–16:30 (Tuesday–Sunday), closed Mondays.
Admission: Free (passport or Chinese ID required).
Getting there: Located at 5 Zhonghua Street Section 2 (中华大街二段5号), 500m east of the White Pagoda. Bus #1, #3, #5 to Bowuguan Station (博物馆站, 5 min, ¥2). Taxi from Liaoyang Station ¥6–8 (8 min). The museum is a 10-minute walk from the White Pagoda and Guangyou Temple.
Tip: Bring your passport—entry is strictly controlled. The "Peng Family Mansion" (彭公馆) courtyard is a highlight—allow 30 minutes to explore the 180-year-old merchant house. The "Liao-Jin Gallery" (辽金馆) has the Liao gilt-bronze Buddha—the museum's best piece. Visit on a weekday morning (9:00–11:00 AM) to avoid school groups. The museum is a 10-minute walk from the White Pagoda—combine both on the same morning. The "Cao Xueqin Corner" (曹雪芹角落) explains the author's Liaoyang connections.
Cao Xueqin Memorial Hall (曹雪芹纪念馆) is dedicated to Cao Xueqin (曹雪芹, 1715–1763), author of Dream of the Red Chamber (红楼梦, Hong Lou Meng)—widely considered China's greatest novel and one of the Four Great Classical Novels of Chinese literature. While Cao Xueqin was born in Nanjing, his family's ancestral roots were in Liaoyang—the Cao family served as officials in Liaoyang for 150+ years before relocating south. The memorial hall, located in a Qing Dynasty courtyard house (1830), has 5 galleries: the "Cao Family History Gallery" (曹家族史馆) explaining the family's Liaoyang connections (with genealogical records showing 10 generations of Cao family officials in Liaoyang); the "Dream of the Red Chamber Gallery" (红楼梦馆) with early printed editions (1791 Cheng-Gao edition, facsimile) and character illustrations; and the "Liaoyang in the Novel Gallery" (辽阳与红楼梦馆) tracing Liaoyang's influences on the novel's settings and character names. Adjacent is the Wang Erlie Memorial (王尔烈纪念堂), dedicated to Wang Erlie (1727–1801), one of the most famous scholars of the Qing Dynasty and Chief Examiner of the Imperial Examinations—a position so prestigious that 800+ successful candidates under him went on to serve as government ministers. The memorial displays his calligraphy scrolls, official seals, and a "Four-Sided Stele" (四面碑) inscribed with his most famous essay. Allow 1–1.5 hours for both. Free admission. The halls are located in a quiet residential area of Liaoyang's old city—the streets around them preserve the same Qing Dynasty atmosphere that Cao Xueqin's ancestors would have known. The halls are a 15-minute walk from the White Pagoda and museum—join all three for a complete Liaoyang cultural walking tour.
Hours: 9:00–16:00 (both, Tuesday–Sunday), closed Mondays.
Admission: Free (passport or Chinese ID required).
Getting there: Located at 88 Laocheng Street (老城街88号), Liaoyang old city area. A 15-minute walk from the White Pagoda. Taxi ¥6–8 (8 min). The halls are 500m from each other—walk between them.
Tip: The "Dream of the Red Chamber Gallery" (红楼梦馆) has facsimiles of the 1791 first edition—allow 30 minutes. The "Wang Erlie Calligraphy" (王尔烈书法) display shows his original scrolls—rare pieces. Free admission with passport. Combine with the White Pagoda, Guangyou Temple, and Liaoyang Museum for a complete cultural walking tour (3–4 hours total). The old city streets around the halls preserve the Qing Dynasty atmosphere—take a slow walk. Visit on a weekday morning (9:00–11:00 AM) to avoid crowds.
The Han-Wei Tomb Murals (汉魏壁画墓群) are a collection of 20+ underground tomb chambers dating to the Eastern Han Dynasty (25–220 AD) and Wei-Jin period (220–420 AD), discovered in the 1950s in the outskirts of Liaoyang. These tombs contain some of the best-preserved mural paintings from the Han Dynasty in all of China—vividly colored scenes showing daily life 1,800 years ago: banquets with musicians, carriages with horses, hunting scenes, kitchen preparations, and architectural drawings of Han Dynasty buildings. The murals are painted directly on the tomb walls using mineral pigments (red ochre, carbon black, malachite green, azurite blue) that have survived remarkably well due to the dry environment inside the sealed tombs. The most famous tomb is "Tomb No. 1 of Bangtaizi" (棒台子一号墓), which contains a 2-meter-long "Banquet Scene" (宴饮图) with 30+ figures—one of the most complex Han Dynasty paintings known. Three tombs are open to the public: Tomb #1 (Bangtaizi, ¥10), Tomb #2 (Sanjiao, ¥10), and Tomb #3 (Yingwei, ¥10). Each has a protective building with a glass roof and walkway above the tomb floor. Allow 1–1.5 hours for all three. The tombs are 3 km northwest of downtown Liaoyang, accessible by bus #11, #15 (20 min, ¥2). The murals are fragile (photography not allowed—flash damages the pigments). This is a world-class archaeological site that is almost completely unknown to foreign tourists—comparable to the Han Dynasty tomb murals of Loyang or Xuzhou, but without the crowds. Visit on a weekday morning (9:00–11:00 AM)—the tombs are often empty. The contrast between the vivid 1,800-year-old paintings and the modern concrete protective buildings is surreal.
Hours: 8:30–16:30 (April–October); 9:00–16:00 (November–March).
Admission: ¥10 per tomb (¥20 combined ticket for all three).
Getting there: Located 3 km northwest of Liaoyang city center in Bangtaizi Village (棒台子村). Bus #11, #15 from Liaoyang Station to Bangtaizi (20 min, ¥2). Taxi ¥15–20 (15 min). The tombs are 500m from the bus stop.
Tip: Photography is NOT allowed inside—flash damages the 1,800-year-old pigments. The "Banquet Scene" (宴饮图) in Tomb #1 is the highlight—30+ figures in vivid red and green. Visit on a weekday morning (9:00–11:00 AM)—the tombs are often empty. Wear a light jacket—the tombs maintain a constant 10–15°C underground temperature. This is a world-class archaeological site that almost no foreign tourists visit. Bring binoculars for better viewing of the ceiling murals (they're 3m above the floor). The tombs are a 10-minute taxi from the Tokyo City ruins—combine both on the same morning.
Longding Mountain (龙顶山, "Dragon Peak Mountain") is a scenic mountain area 8 km south of Liaoyang city center, offering hiking trails through pine forests, panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside, and the Longding Reservoir (龙顶山水库, 3 km shoreline). The mountain peaks at 380 meters (gentle slopes, suitable for all fitness levels), with a 3 km paved path and 5 km of forest trails. Key features: the "Dragon Peak Viewing Platform" (龙顶观景台, 380m) offering 360° views of Liaoyang city to the north and the Qianshan mountain range to the south; the "Waterfall Gully" (瀑布沟, a 20-meter seasonal waterfall, best in spring when snowmelt swells the stream); and the "Forest Aroma Trail" (森林芳香步道, 2 km through pine forest with designated "forest bathing" stations—benches where you're encouraged to sit and breathe deeply). The reservoir has a "Lakeside Walk" (沿湖步道, 3 km, 45 min) with views across the water to the mountains. The mountain is popular with Liaoyang locals for morning exercise (6:00–8:00 AM) and weekend hiking. Autumn (late September–October) foliage is beautiful—the pine and oak forests turn gold and red. Allow 2–3 hours. The entrance is free. The mountain is especially atmospheric at sunrise (5:00–6:00 AM) when mist rises from the reservoir and the city lights are still visible in the distance. Bring comfortable shoes—the path is well-maintained but includes 500+ steps near the summit. The "Forest Aroma Trail" (森林芳香步道) has designated meditation spots—perfect for a quiet break.
Hours: 6:00–18:00 (April–October); 7:00–17:00 (November–March).
Admission: Free.
Getting there: Located 8 km south of Liaoyang city center. Bus #15 from Liaoyang Station to Longdingshan (30 min, ¥2). Taxi ¥20–25 (20 min). The mountain entrance is 300m from the bus stop.
Tip: The "Dragon Peak Viewing Platform" (龙顶观景台, 380m) offers the best city views—bring a camera. The "Forest Aroma Trail" (森林芳香步道, 2 km) has designated meditation spots. Autumn (September–October) foliage is beautiful. Visit at sunrise (5:00–6:00 AM) for misty reservoir views. The mountain is gentle (easy hiking, all fitness levels). The "Waterfall Gully" (瀑布沟, 20m) is best in spring (April–May). Combine with the Han-Wei Tomb Murals (3 km north) on the same afternoon.
Liaoyang's "Old City Pedestrian Street" (古城步行街) is a 1.5 km tree-lined street running east-west through the historical city center, connecting the White Pagoda to the Tokyo City area. The street preserves Liaoyang's "old city" atmosphere with traditional storefronts, 50+ shops selling local specialties, and a lively night market (17:00–22:00) in the "Zhonghua Square" (中华广场) section. Key stops along the street: "Laoshitai Pastry" (老世泰糕点, 中华大街一段88号, ¥10–30 per box)—a Liaoyang institution founded in the Qing Dynasty (1875, Guangxu era, 150+ years old), famous for their "Oil Tea Powder" (油茶面, ¥12/box), "Hawthorn Mooncakes" (山楂月饼, ¥18/box, seasonal), and "Traditional Eight Pieces" (传统八件, ¥25/box, 8 types of pastries); the "Liaoyang Antique Market" (辽阳古玩市场, weekends 8:00–16:00) with Liao Dynasty ceramic shards, Qing Dynasty coins, and old books; and the "Night Market Food Stalls" (夜市小吃摊, 17:00–22:00) serving "Liaoyang-style Grilled Skewers" (辽阳烤串, ¥3–5/skewer), "Sweet Taro Balls" (甜芋球, ¥8), and "Milk Tea" (¥5). The street is especially lively in the evening (18:00–20:00) when the lights come on and the night market fills with local families, students, and elderly couples strolling. Allow 1–1.5 hours for the street and market. The "Laoshitai Pastry" shop is the only remaining Qing Dynasty pastry shop in Liaoyang—try the "Oil Tea Powder" (油茶面), a traditional Liaoning breakfast drink that is almost impossible to find outside the region. The antique market on weekends is fascinating—Liao Dynasty shards are surprisingly affordable (¥10–50) and make unique souvenirs. The night market is busiest 18:00–20:00—arrive early for the best selection of grilled skewers.
Hours: Shops 9:00–21:00. Night market 17:00–22:00. Antique market 8:00–16:00 (weekends only).
Admission: Free.
Getting there: Located on Zhonghua Avenue (中华大街), between the White Pagoda and Liaoyang Museum. A 5-minute walk from both. Taxi from Liaoyang Station ¥6–8 (8 min).
Tip: The "Laoshitai Pastry" (老世泰糕点, 中华大街一段88号) is a must-visit—try "Oil Tea Powder" (油茶面, ¥12/box), a traditional Liaoning breakfast drink. The weekend antique market (古玩市场) has Liao Dynasty shards for ¥10–50—unique souvenirs. The night market (夜市, 17:00–22:00) is lively with grilled skewers (¥3–5/skewer). Visit the pedestrian street in the evening (18:00–20:00) for the best atmosphere. The street connects the White Pagoda to the Tokyo City area—perfect for a leisurely walk between attractions.
By high-speed rail (recommended): Liaoyang Station (辽阳站) is on the Shenyang–Dalian HSR line. Frequent services: Shenyang (30 min, ¥15), Dalian (2 hours, ¥80), Beijing (4 hours, ¥180), Benxi (20 min, ¥12), Anshan (10 min, ¥8). Liaoyang is one of the easiest day trips from Shenyang—trains depart every 15 minutes. Book tickets via Trip.com app.
By conventional train: Liaoyang Station (辽阳站, city center) serves conventional trains to Shenyang (40 min, ¥10), Dalian (3 hours, ¥40), and Benxi (30 min, ¥8). Slower but cheaper than HSR.
By car: Liaoyang is 60 km south of Shenyang on the G15 Shenyang-Dalian Expressway (45 min). Parking is available at Baita Park (¥5/hour).
Getting around Liaoyang: The city is compact and walkable. All major attractions (White Pagoda, Guangyou Temple, Museum, Cao Xueqin Hall, Pedestrian Street) are within a 20-minute walk of each other in the city center. Buses ¥1–2 cover the city. Taxis start at ¥6 (first 3 km), then ¥2/km. DiDi ride-hailing works well. To Tokyo City Ruins (3 km east): bus ¥2 or taxi ¥10–12. To Han-Wei Tombs (3 km northwest): bus ¥2 or taxi ¥15–20. To Longding Mountain (8 km south): bus ¥2 or taxi ¥20–25.
Ideal stay: 1 day trip from Shenyang (perfectly doable, no overnight needed). This itinerary covers all highlights: arrive 9:00 AM, White Pagoda (9:00–10:00), Guangyou Temple (10:00–11:00), Liaoyang Museum (11:00–12:30), Laoshitai Pastry lunch (12:30–13:30), Cao Xueqin Hall (13:30–14:30), Tokyo City Ruins (14:30–15:30), Han-Wei Tomb Murals (15:30–16:30), pedestrian street + night market (17:00–18:30), train back to Shenyang (19:00, arrive 19:30). For a more relaxed 2-day trip: Day 1 same as above, Day 2 Longding Mountain (morning) + second visit to favorite sites (afternoon) + return to Shenyang (evening).
Liaoyang's cuisine is defined by its 2,300+ year history, blending Liaoning classics with frontier flavors from its time as a multi-ethnic capital. The city's food is especially known for "Laoshitai Pastry" (老世泰糕点, 150+ year old Qing Dynasty recipe), "Liaoyang Grilled Skewers" (辽阳烤串), and "Old-Style Northeastern Dumplings" (老式东北饺子). Here are seven authentic, well-regarded restaurants:
1. 老世泰糕点总店（白塔分店）(Laoshitai Pastry Main Store, Baita Branch)
Address: 辽宁省辽阳市白塔区中华大街一段88号 (88 Zhonghua Avenue Section 1, Baita District, Liaoyang, Liaoning)
Laoshitai (老世泰, "Old Generational Peace") is Liaoyang's most famous food institution—a pastry shop founded in the Qing Dynasty (1875, Guangxu era, 150+ years old) that has operated continuously on the same street for 5 generations. They are famous for "Traditional Eight Pieces" (传统八件, ¥25/box)—8 types of traditional Chinese pastries each with a unique filling (red bean, lotus seed, date paste, green bean, five-nut, sesame, jujube, and osmanthus). Their signature "Oil Tea Powder" (油茶面, ¥12/box) is a traditional Liaoning breakfast drink—wheat flour stir-fried until golden, mixed with sesame, peanuts, and brown sugar, then brewed with hot water to create a thick, nutty, comforting drink (a 2,300-year-old recipe, unique to the region). Also recommended: "Hawthorn Mooncakes" (山楂月饼, ¥18/box, seasonal), "Fried Pastry Puffs" (起酥, ¥15/box), "Sesame Cookies" (芝麻酥, ¥12/box), and "Peanut Candy" (花生糖, ¥10/box). The shop has a traditional storefront with wooden cabinets, glass display counters, and the original "Laoshitai" calligraphy signboard from 1875. The current owner (5th generation) still uses the original recipes. Average ¥15–30/person. Open 8:00–19:00. No reservation needed. A must-visit for Liaoyang's most iconic food—the "Oil Tea Powder" (油茶面) is an unforgettable taste of old Northeast China. Buy boxes to take home (the pastries keep for 2 weeks).
2. 顺鑫烧烤城总部（白塔总店）(Shunxin BBQ City HQ, Baita Main Store)
Address: 辽宁省辽阳市白塔区中华大街与和平路交汇处东 (Intersection of Zhonghua Avenue & Heping Road, Baita District, Liaoyang, Liaoning)
Shunxin BBQ City (顺鑫烧烤城) is Liaoyang's most popular BBQ restaurant, ranked #1 on Gaode Maps for Liaoyang restaurants—with 233+ reviews and a 4.5-star rating. Their signature "Liaoyang-Style Lamb Skewers" (辽阳烤羊肉串, ¥10/2 skewers) are grilled over charcoal with a special cumin-chili blend that has been the same recipe for 30+ years—the lamb is sourced from local farms (no gamey taste). The "Grilled Chicken Frame" (烤鸡架, ¥28) is a Liaoyang specialty—a whole chicken frame (bones with some meat) grilled until crispy, popular for picking apart with friends over beer. Also recommended: "Grilled Beef Ribs" (烤牛肋排, ¥58), "Grilled Squid" (烤鱿鱼, ¥22), "Cold Noodles" (冷面, ¥15), "Seafood Pancake" (海鲜葱饼, ¥22), "Liaoyang Beer" (辽阳啤酒, ¥8/bottle), and "Pickled Cabbage with Pork" (酸菜猪肉, ¥18). The restaurant has a lively dining room with charcoal grills at each table—you grill your own meat. The "Chicken Frame" (鸡架) is a must-try—it's Pickled Cabbage with Pork. Average ¥40–70/person. Open 11:00–23:00 (Grill until 22:00). No reservation; arrive before 17:30 to avoid the dinner rush. A lively, authentic BBQ experience that defines Liaoyang's food culture. Ranked #1 on Gaode's 2025 Liaoyang Food List—the locals' choice.
3. 广佑寺素斋馆（广佑寺院内）(Guangyou Temple Vegetarian Restaurant)
Address: 辽宁省辽阳市白塔区中华大街一段60号广佑寺东侧 (East Side of Guangyou Temple, 60 Zhonghua Avenue Section 1, Baita District, Liaoyang, Liaoning)
Located inside the Guangyou Temple complex, this Buddhist vegetarian restaurant serves "Temple Vegetarian Cuisine" (寺院素斋) made without garlic, onion, or any meat—following traditional Buddhist dietary rules (斋戒, zhaijie). Their signature "Vegetarian "Fish" (素鱼, ¥28) is made from tofu skin shaped into a fish, fried crispy, then steamed in a sweet-sour sauce—surprisingly realistic in texture. The "Buddhist Vegetable Stew" (斋菜炖, ¥22) features 8+ seasonal vegetables in a light herb broth. Also recommended: "Wild Mushroom Tofu" (山蘑豆腐, ¥18), "Vegetarian Spring Rolls" (素春卷, ¥15/6 pieces), "Millet Mushroom Soup" (小米菌汤, ¥12/bowl), "Steamed Buns" (蒸包, ¥5/4 pieces), and "Jasmine Tea" (茉莉花茶, ¥8/pot). The restaurant has a peaceful dining room with Buddhist-themed decor (cushion seating, lotus paintings) and large windows overlooking the Mahavira Hall. The kitchen is supervised by Guangyou Temple's monks—the recipes follow a 1,000-year tradition of temple cooking. Average ¥30–50/person. Open 10:00–19:00. No reservation needed. A unique Buddhist dining experience—the "Vegetarian 'Fish'" (素鱼) is surprisingly delicious. The restaurant is a 2-minute walk from the White Pagoda—perfect for lunch between visiting the pagoda and the museum.
4. 古城饺子馆（白塔总店）(Ancient City Dumpling House, Baita Main Store)
Address: 辽宁省辽阳市白塔区古城街56号 (56 Gucheng Street, Baita District, Liaoyang, Liaoning)
This family-run dumpling house has been operating for 40+ years on Liaoyang's ancient street, serving "Old-Style Northeastern Dumplings" (老式东北饺子)—handmade dumplings with thinner wrappers and generous fillings. Their signature "Three-Delight Dumplings" (三鲜饺子, ¥22/12 pieces) are filled with minced pork, shrimp, and Chinese chives—the filling is incredibly juicy. The "Lamb and Coriander Dumplings" (羊肉香菜饺, ¥25/12 pieces) use lamb sourced from the same farms as Liaoyang's famous mutton soup. Also recommended: "Pork and Cabbage Dumplings" (猪肉白菜饺, ¥18/12 pieces), "Pickled Cabbage Dumplings" (酸菜饺, ¥20/12 pieces), "Liaoyang-Style Cold Plate" (辽阳凉盘, ¥18—a local cold platter with shredded chicken, cucumber, and bean curd), "Garlic Soy Dipping Sauce" (蒜酱, free), and "Liaoyang Beer" (辽阳啤酒, ¥6/bottle). The restaurant has a cozy dining room with wooden tables and an open dumpling-making counter where you can watch the chefs fold dumplings by hand (they make 1,000+ dumplings daily). The owner is a 3rd-generation dumpling master who learned the recipe from his grandmother. Average ¥25–45/person. Open 10:00–21:00. No reservation needed. A classic Liaoyang dumpling experience—the "Three-Delight Dumplings" (三鲜饺子) are some of the best in the city. Located on the pedestrian street, perfect for a quick lunch between sightseeing.
5. 东京城农家院（东京城遗址东门）(Tokyo City Farmhouse Restaurant, East Gate)
Address: 辽宁省辽阳市东京城遗址东门外 (Outside East Gate of Tokyo City Ruins, Liaoyang, Liaoning)
Located at the east gate of the Tokyo City ruins, this farmhouse-style restaurant serves "Qing Dynasty Frontier Cuisine" (清代边塞菜)—hearty Northeastern dishes inspired by recipes from the Nurhaci era (1621–1625). Their signature "Manchu Braised Pork" (满族红烧肉, ¥48) is pork belly slow-braised for 3 hours with soy sauce, star anise, and wild mushrooms—a recipe said to have been served to Nurhaci's generals. The "Qing Imperial Stew" (清代御炖, ¥38 for 2–3 people) is a hearty stew of beef, potato, and carrot in a rich broth—historians believe this was a Qing military field meal. Also recommended: "Millet Porridge" (小米粥, ¥5/bowl), "Cornmeal Pancakes" (玉米饼, ¥5/each), "Stir-Fried Wild Herbs" (炒山野菜, ¥18), "Pickled Cabbage with Pork" (酸菜猪肉, ¥22), and "Lamb Skewers" (羊肉串, ¥10/2 skewers). The restaurant has a rustic farmhouse dining room with large round tables, exposed brick walls, and Qing Dynasty-style decor (replica armor on the walls, old farming tools). The owners are local farmers who grow their own vegetables. Average ¥40–70/person. Open 11:00–20:00. No reservation needed. A unique historical dining experience right at the Tokyo City ruins—the "Manchu Braised Pork" (满族红烧肉) is exceptionally flavorful. Perfect for lunch after visiting the ruins.
6. 辽阳老街烧烤（白塔夜市分店）(Liaoyang Old Street BBQ, Baita Night Market Branch)
Address: 辽宁省辽阳市白塔区中华广场夜市 (Zhonghua Square Night Market, Baita District, Liaoyang, Liaoning)
Located in the Zhonghua Square (中华广场) section of Liaoyang's night market, this popular BBQ stall (200+ positive reviews) serves "Liaoyang-Style Grilled Skewers" (辽阳烤串)—small skewers of lamb, beef, chicken heart, and chicken wings grilled over charcoal. Their signature "Mixed Skewer Platter" (混合烤串, ¥25/10 skewers) includes lamb, beef, chicken heart, and vegetables—great for sampling everything. The "Grilled Corn" (烤玉米, ¥5/ear) is slathered with house-made chili butter. Also recommended: "Grilled Tofu" (烤豆腐, ¥8/6 pieces), "Grilled Fish" (烤鱼, ¥18/whole fish), "Cold Noodles" (冷面, ¥12), "Milk Tea" (奶茶, ¥5/cup), and "Sweet Taro Balls" (甜芋球, ¥8). The stall is open-air with plastic stools and string lights—it's where Liaoyang locals gather after work for a cold beer and grilled skewers. The owner has been grilling skewers in the same spot for 25 years. Average ¥25–40/person. Open 17:00–23:00 (the market is busiest 18:00–20:00). No reservation—just show up and find a table. A vibrant, essential Liaoyang night market experience—the "Mixed Skewer Platter" (¥25) with a bottle of Liaoyang Beer (¥8) is the perfect evening meal. Visit 18:00–19:00 for the best selection before the crowds arrive.
7. 辽阳酸菜馆（白塔老字号店）(Liaoyang Pickled Cabbage Restaurant, Baita Old Brand)
Address: 辽宁省辽阳市白塔区老城街128号 (128 Laocheng Street, Baita District, Liaoyang, Liaoning)
This restaurant specializes in "Northeastern Pickled Cabbage" (东北酸菜, suancai)—fermented Chinese cabbage that is the cornerstone of Northeastern cuisine. Liaoyang's suancai is famous for its 40-day natural fermentation process (no vinegar, just salt and time), resulting in a tangy, crisp texture that is used in stews, dumplings, and stir-fries. Their signature "Pork Ribs with Pickled Cabbage Stew" (酸菜炖排骨, ¥48 for 2–3 people) features pork ribs simmered for 2 hours with suancai and cellophane noodles—the sourness of the cabbage cuts through the richness of the pork. The "Pickled Cabbage Hot Pot" (酸菜火锅, ¥58/person) is a Liaoyang winter specialty—fillings of pork slices, tofu, mushrooms, and cellophane noodles in a suancai broth. Also recommended: "Pickled Cabbage Dumplings" (酸菜饺子, ¥20/12 pieces), "Stir-Fried Pickled Cabbage with Pork" (炒酸菜猪肉, ¥22), "Steamed Blood Sausage" (血肠, ¥18, a Northeastern specialty), "Millet Porridge" (小米粥, ¥5/bowl), and "Cornmeal Pancakes" (玉米饼, ¥5/each). The restaurant has a homey dining room with family-style round tables—it's where Liaoyang families come for Sunday lunch. The owner's grandmother started the recipe 60 years ago—the suancai is still fermented in traditional clay jars in the basement. Average ¥35–60/person. Open 10:00–20:00. No reservation needed. A quintessential Northeastern Chinese dining experience in one of its oldest cities—the "Pork Ribs with Pickled Cabbage Stew" (酸菜炖排骨) is the most authentic representation of Liaoyang's winter cuisine. Especially recommended in winter (December–February) for the "Pickled Cabbage Hot Pot" (酸菜火锅).
Budget travel (¥100–200/day per person): Day trip from Shenyang (train ¥15 each way), local buses ¥10–20/day, low-cost attractions (White Pagoda ¥10, Guangyou Temple ¥20, Han-Wei tombs ¥20 combined). Most major attractions and museums are free. Street food ¥25–40/day (Laoshitai pastries, grilled skewers, dumplings). Suitable for backpackers, history enthusiasts, and budget-conscious travelers.
Mid-range travel (¥300–500/day per person): If staying overnight: 3-star hotel ¥200–350/night. Restaurant meals ¥60–100/day (including Old Street BBQ, dumplings, and temple vegetarian), bus and taxi ¥20–40/day, all attractions included (White Pagoda ¥10, Guangyou Temple ¥20, combined tomb ticket ¥20). Comfortable pace with time to explore the ancient city thoroughly.
Comfortable travel (¥600–1,000/day per person): 4–5 star hotel ¥400–700/night, fine dining ¥100–150/day (including Manchu braised pork at Tokyo City farmhouse), private car with driver ¥200–300/day, all attractions with guided tours available (historical walking tour ¥150, Tokyo City archaeological tour ¥100). Best experience with maximum comfort.
Money-saving tips: Majority of Liaoyang's attractions are FREE (Liaoyang Museum, Tokyo City Ruins, Cao Xueqin Hall, Longding Mountain, Pedestrian Street, night market). The Han-Wei Tomb Murals (¥20 combined ticket for 3 tombs) is the only attraction over ¥10 that's worth paying for. Use local buses (¥2) instead of taxis. Buy "Laoshitai Pastry" boxes (¥25/box) as affordable souvenirs. The "Day Trip from Shenyang" strategy saves the most money—train round trip ¥30, all attractions <¥50 total, street food <¥40/day. Total day trip cost: ¥120–200 per person including food, transport, and attractions.