Qipan Shan Scenic Area ( 棋盘山风景区 qípán shān fēngjǐng qū )
Address: Situated about 80 minutes NE of the city center

Qipan Shan, literally “Chessboard Mountain,” is Shenyang’s most well-known outdoor scenic spot. The park consists of a beautiful lake, and three large hills which afford excellent views of the surrounding forest. In the winter Qipan Shan is home to the “Shenyang Snow and Ice Festival”, which is similar to its more famous counterpart in Harbin. The festival features elaborate snow and ice sculptures, on-ice activities such as dog-sleds, skating, and downhill skiing. Construction has recently begun on an indoor skiing facility, meant to provide year-round downhill skiing. The facility is scheduled to open in 2008. 

  

If you’re in Shenyang in the winter, you definitely do not want to skip Qipan Shan. Also, the area is a very pleasant destination to spend a day strolling around and enjoying some time away from the city in the summertime. 

  

Location: Qipan Shan is about 80 minutes northeast of the city center by bus. A taxi there should cost around 100 yuan. Otherwise simply take the 168 bus (formerly 330) from Ma Lu Wan.