When you think of China, you probably imagine bustling megacities, futuristic skylines, or ancient temples…
But what if I told you there’s a city here that looks and feels like Europe?
In today’s video, we’re exploring Dalian — a place so unique you’ll question whether you’re really still in China. From European-style streets and seaside boulevards to its surprising history and culture, this is a side of China that most people have never seen before.
Watch until the end to see why Dalian is unlike anywhere else in China… and why it might just be one of the country’s best-kept secrets.
Join us as we uncover another hidden side of China!
September 2025 | Vlog 540 | Dalian ,China
13/34 Province
In Dalian, a couple explores a Chinese city with European vibes, from Venetian canals to local street food, finding it a surprising hidden gem.
In this vlog, the travelers explore Dalian, a Chinese city that feels surprisingly European. From its Venetian replica canals to the vast Xinghai Square, they uncover a side of China that is largely unknown to Western tourists. The video captures their authentic local dining experience and their astonishment at the city's unique blend of cultures, making it a must-see hidden gem.
When you think of China, you probably imagine bustling megacities, futuristic skylines, or ancient temples… But what if I told you there’s a city here that looks and feels like Europe? In today’s video, we’re exploring Dalian — a place so unique you’ll question whether you’re really still in China....
Exploring Dalian China's European Style City Hidden Gem
Prepare to be amazed as this travel vlog unveils Dalian, a Chinese city that defies expectations with its striking European charm. Forget the typical images of China; Dalian offers a unique blend of European-style architecture and picturesque seaside boulevards. This hidden gem promises a travel experience that will make you question if you're still in China, revealing a side of the country rarely seen by tourists. Discover its surprising history and culture in this captivating journey.
Attractions in this video: Venice Water World, Xinghai Square, Russia Custom Street, Double Decker Suspension Bridge
The editor's summary of the transcript follows. The travelers, Ben and Rianne, begin their first day in Dalian, a city of 7 million that feels like a different planet. They note the city's posh district, the convenience of using QR codes for the metro, and the fact that China's single time zone means it gets dark here at 6 p.m., unlike Xinjiang. They head to the Venice Water World, a replica of the Italian city built with 4 miles of canal and over 200 colonial European buildings, a government project from 2011 costing 720 million yuan. Rianne remarks it brings back memories of Ben's proposal in Venice 11 years ago. They find the area quiet during the day but appreciate the cheap vitamin water from a vending machine for just 7 yuan. Ben notes he's becoming a typical Chinese husband, taking photos of his wife. They then visit Xinghai Square, the largest square in China, four times the size of Tiananmen Square, surrounded by futuristic skyscrapers. They hide from the heat in a Starbucks before exploring the evening scene, including a waterfront promenade with the world's longest double-decker suspension bridge built in the sea. They enjoy local snacks like a thick yogurt in a glass bottle for 10 yuan, and Ben observes the cultural trend of husbands holding their wives' bags. They wander down Russia Custom Street, the oldest street in Dalian, noting the city was closed to tourists until 1992. Seeking an authentic experience, they end their day at a local eatery, navigating a language barrier to order northeast stew, lamb skewers, and egg fried soya rice. The meal is a highlight—juicy, flavorful, and surprisingly cheap at 117 yuan. They reflect on their journey, having now visited 13 provinces in China, and hint at their next destination near the border of North Korea.
