Dandong Liaoning, China Travel Guide
Dandong experiences a continental monsoon climate, bringing four distinct seasons, each presenting a different appeal to travelers. Winters, from December to February, present cold and lack of rain, with mean temperatures typically ranging from -50°F to 0°C (14°F to 32°F). While snowfall occurs, it is generally moderate, creating picturesque winter scenes, especially along the Yalu River. Spring, spanning March to May, brings milder, often windy weather, with temperatures gradually climbing from 5°C to 20°C (41°F to 68°F). This season sees the landscape awaken, but spring winds can prove brisk. Summers, from From from June to august, are hot and humid, with average temperatures between 20°C and 28°C (68°F to 82°F). This period marks the wettest season, receiving the majority of Dandong's annual precipitation, approximately 900-1000 mm, with about 60% falling during July and August. Humidity levels are highest during these months. Autumn, from September to November, is cool and dry, with unclouded skies and comfortable temperatures, typically between 5°C and 15°C (41°F to 59°F). Humidity levels are lowest in winter and gradually rise through spring to a reach a peak in summer, then drop again in autumn.
Summer offers verdant foliage but also humidity and rain. Autumn provides comfortable temperatures and clear skies. The high season spans from The month of july to August, coinciding with warm weather and lush landscapes. However, this period also brings higher humidity and more precipitation due to the rainy season. Larger crowds and potentially higher prices for accommodations and flights are common.
Special weather considerations for Dandong mainly include the summer monsoon season. From July to August, heavy rainfall is common, occasionally caemploying localized flooding or disruptions to outdoor activities. While less directly impacted than coastal areas southward, typhoons originating in the Pacific can sometimes influence the region in late summer, bringing high winds and heavy rain. Winter travelers must prepare for radical low temperatures, necessitating appropriate cold-weather gear for comfort.
The perfect timing for particular pastimes often relates to the season. For general sightseeing and enjoying border views, May-June and September-October present comfortable weather and good visibility. Yalu River cruises operate best from May to October, taking advantage of the milder conditions. Hiking and other outdoor activities are most pleasant during spring and autumn. If seeking winter scenic outlooks and potential ice festivals, plan your visit between December and February, remembering to wear clothes warmly.
Approx. $21-$47 / day
¥80-¥150 (Hostel/Guesthouse)
¥50-¥100 (Street food/local eateries)
Approx. $63-$132 / day
¥250-¥500 (3-star hotel)
¥100-¥200 (Mix of local/mid-range)
Approx. $167+ / day
¥700+ (4-5 star hotel)
¥250-¥500+ (Upscale/fine dining)
Travelers to Dandong, like most parts of mainland China, generally make visa arrangements. The most common visa type for tourists is the L-visa, or Tourist Visa. Submitting your application takes place at of Chinese origin embassy or consulate in your home country, or via a Chinese person person Visa Application Service Center (CVASC). The application typically calls for an appointment, submission of physical documents, and sometimes an interview. Processing usually spans 4-10 business days, though expedited services often exist for one more fee when a visa is needed quickly.
Your passport must maintain validity for at a minimum of six months past your intended stay and needs at least two blank visa pages. Conclude the visa application form accurately and truthfully, typically online, then print it. One recent (within six months) passport-style color photo is also necessary, meeting specific size and background conditions, including a white background and a full face visible without head coverings unless for religious reasons. If applying outside your home country, proof of legal stay or residence is due. Supporting documents include round-trip flight itineraries and hotel reservations, or an invitation letter from a Chinese citizen or resident. A detailed travel plan for your stay in China is also advantageous. If you previously visited China, include copies of your old visas.
Directly confirm visa rules with the Chinese embassy in your country before your trip.
Visa fees vary by nationality and number of entries; example: US citizens approx. $140.
Present passport, valid visa, and completed arrival/departure card at immigration.
Most foreign nationals aged 14-70 provide fingerprints upon first China entry.
Some border/military zones may limit access, generally not for tourists.
China uses the Chinese Yuan Renminbi (CNY), symbolized by ¥. The exchange rate, which fluctuates, was approximately 7.1-7.3 CNY to ONE AMERICAN dollar at the beginning of 2024. Currency exchange occurs at main financial institutions like Bank of China or ICBC, or at authorized exchange counters in airports or large hotels. ATMs are widely available, accepting international cards like Visa, MasterCard, Plus, and Cirrus. Inform your bank about travel plans to avoid card issues. Digital payments, mainly WeChat Pay and Alipay, dominate transactions in China. It is highly advisable to establish up one of these apps, linking an international credit card, for stays longer than a few days. Cash is becoming less common for daily purchases.
Accommodation prices vary across categories:
Cost of meals cater for various budgets:
While no vaccinations are officially required for getting into China for most travelers, some are recommended. Consult a travel health clinic 4-6 weeks prior to your trip for bespoke guidance. Recommended vaccinations include routine ones (MMR, DTP, Varicella), Hep A & B, and Typhoid. If planning significant time outdoors or interaction with animals, rabies vaccination is recommended. Japanese Encephalitis is a suggestion for long-term rural stays.
Dandong includes several general hospitals; major facilities include The First Affiliated Hospital of Liaoning Medical University and Dandong Central Hospital.
Pharmacies are abundant, but English-speaking staff might be rare. Bring generic names for prescriptions.
Tap water is generally not safe; consume bottled or boiled water. Exercise caution with street food, selecting high-turnover stalls.
Dandong generally has a safe urban environment with low violent crime rates. Petty crime occurs in crowded tourist areas; be wary of "tea ceremony" or art student scams (less common here).
Localized flooding is possible during summer monsoon. In winter, icy roads pose a slipping risk. Major damaging earthquakes are rare.
Tipping generally lacks custom or expectation in China. In some higher-end establishments or for private tours, tips may gain acceptance but hold no mandatory status. Attempting to tip in many local settings might even cause confusion or refusal.
Digital payments are the dominant transaction method in China.
Dandong is generally a safe city with low violent crime rates. Petty crime, like pickpocketing or bag snatching, can occur in crowded tourist areas, markets, or on public transportation. Maintain situational understanding and secure valuables.
