Deligeer Grassland Scenic Area: Liaoning's Little Switzerland
Honestly, if it weren't for my social media feed being flooded with posts, I really wouldn't have known that Fuxin, Liaoning, had such a hidden gem of a grassland—Deligeer. In Mongolian, it means "flowers blooming, vast and open land," which sounds quite romantic. It's located in Dade Town, Zhangwu County, about a 2-hour drive from Shenyang and just over an hour from Fuxin city center, making it perfect for a spontaneous weekend trip. I just got back from there, and while the memories are still fresh, I've put together a comprehensive guide for you.
First, get the basic information to avoid a wasted trip.
This place is officially called Deligeer Grassland Scenic Area, a national 4A-level scenic spot and the only grassland 4A-level attraction in Liaoning, having just been upgraded at the end of 2024. It's situated on the southern edge of the Horqin Sandy Land, encompassing seven types of landscapes: mountains, water, forests, fields, lakes, grasslands, and sand. In short, you can see grasslands, lakes, deserts, and wetlands all in one place, which is quite magical.
Remember the operating hours: It's open annually from April 26 to October 31, from 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM, with last entry at 5:00 PM. Don't arrive too late. Regarding tickets, which is what everyone cares about most—the main entrance ticket is currently free. There used to be talk of a CNY 30 fee, but now it's free. Children under 1.3 meters, seniors over 70, and active/retired military personnel also get free admission with valid ID. However, entertainment activities like horse riding, beach ATVs, rainbow slides, and boat rides are charged separately. If you want to save money, you can buy a package deal on a travel platform in advance, which will be more cost-effective. Parking is free, which is a nice bonus.
How to get there? Driving is the best way.
I sincerely recommend driving. Just search for "Deligeer Grassland Scenic Area" on your navigation app. From Shenyang, take the Jingha Expressway towards Fuxin. The journey takes about 2.5 hours, and the road conditions are excellent. From Fuxin city center, it's even quicker, just over an hour. The scenic area's parking lot is large enough, making it easy to park and enter after buying tickets.
Public transport isn't impossible, but it's a hassle—you'd first go to Zhangwu County, then transfer to a rural bus, and then take a taxi from the town. Buses are also infrequent. If you're traveling with seniors or children, driving yourself is much better. I went on a Friday evening, stayed one night, and had the most comfortable experience. I highly recommend a 2-day trip.
What to do? Don't miss these spots.
The park is quite large, covering thousands of acres. I recommend spending a full day exploring slowly, taking photos and enjoying the scenery in the morning, and trying out activities in the afternoon.
Hobbit Town is a popular photo spot, with a row of colorful dome-shaped houses, set against blue skies, white clouds, and a sea of flowers. Every photo looks like it's from a fairy tale, a must-visit for families with kids. Ningchang Ancient Film City allows you to wander through a market in ancient costumes, giving you a sense of time travel. It has an even better atmosphere when lit up at night. At the Mongolian Yurt Camp, you can try on Mongolian robes for photos, and in the evening, there are bonfire parties with singing and dancing. Kids run around the bonfire, while adults chat over milk tea. The grassland nights are truly therapeutic.
For those who want to climb high, go to Dege Mountain, where you can "view four lakes from one mountain" and get a panoramic view of the grassland. It's especially picturesque at sunset. If you want to see an ecological miracle, be sure to visit the Sand Reclamation Square and the Sand Control Experience Base—the scenic area has deliberately preserved a piece of original desert, forming a stark contrast with the surrounding greenery. It's a testament to 70 years of sand control efforts by the people of Zhangwu, which is quite impressive to witness.
Among the entertainment activities, the rainbow slide is suitable for all ages. Its gentle slope makes for a thrilling yet safe ride. Beach ATVs offer full stress relief as you traverse sand and grassland. At the Royal Horse Ranch, you can gallop on horseback. Even if you can't ride, there are instructors to guide you. In the Pet Paradise, lambs and deer are gentle and friendly, keeping children entertained for half a day. In summer, there are also water rafting and boat rides, and the sunset over the lake is absolutely stunning.
Food and accommodation arrangements.
There's a Youth Educated Restaurant within the scenic area, serving traditional dishes like "killing pig stew" and "big stew." With newspaper-covered tables, black-and-white TVs, and hand fans, it's a nostalgic trip for those born in the 70s and 80s. The Sand Spring Fish Feast is a local specialty, with fish stewed in sand spring water, resulting in a rich and flavorful broth. If you want something more grand, order a whole roasted lamb; remember to book in advance. Mongolian meat pies, savory milk tea, and hand-held meat are also worth trying. You can eat very well for just a few dozen yuan per person.
There are more accommodation options than I expected—container homestays are artistic and affordable, Hobbit-themed homestays are built by the lake with flower fields right outside your window. There are also RV camps and Mongolian yurts. If you want to experience a nomadic lifestyle, sleep in a yurt, falling asleep to the sound of the wind at night and waking up to the sun in the morning—it's amazing. I recommend staying one night; the starry sky over the grassland is something you can't see in the city, with the Milky Way visible to the naked eye.
A few heartfelt reminders.
Attire: White, beige, and light blue long dresses photograph best. Absolutely avoid earthy yellow, as you'll blend into the sandy landscape.
Sun protection and warmth: There's no shade on the grassland. In summer, bring sun protection and mosquito repellent. The temperature difference between day and night is significant, so even in mid-summer, pack a light jacket.
Photography time: For uncrowded, epic shots, go on weekdays. The light is softest in the early morning and late afternoon.
Environmental protection: The Scots pine trees and grasslands are the result of generations of sand control efforts. Please do not step on them or break branches.
Electric carts: Rentals stop at 5:00 PM. If you want to explore thoroughly, enter the park early.
Overall, Deligeer is a hidden gem that offers "low investment, high return." It's affordable, the scenery is great, and kids can run wild, making it especially suitable for short weekend trips around Liaoning. Take advantage of July to September when the grass is greenest and flowers are in full bloom. You'll thank me later!