Black Rock Reef

Black Rock Reef

The geosite closest to downtown Dalian, formed approximately 1 billion years ago, is a renowned karst landscape scattered across capes and bays. The Dalian Natural History Museum is built along the Black Rock Reef shoreline, adjacent to Xinghai Park. It has one underground floor and three above-ground floors, making it the largest natural history museum in China in terms of architectural scale and the most advanced in exhibition methods, as well as one of the few museums in China registered with UNESCO. Many of the specimens on display are unique in China, such as the black right whale and the sperm whale. Here, you’ll find lush green lawns, azure seas, and pitch-black reefs all blending harmoniously with the elegant museum architecture, allowing visitors to more fully immerse themselves in the theme of nature.

Dining/Accommodation/Shopping This area is a transfer hub between Dalian and Lüshun, where visitors often stop for meals. Two restaurants are recommended: Yahui Fast Food Black Rock Reef Branch, located just west of the bus station next to KFC, and the nearby Li Ji Braised Lamb Restaurant, which is also excellent. Transportation options include the 202 tram, buses 23 and 406, and sightseeing bus 801. Ticket/Opening Hours: The Natural History Museum charges 30 RMB for adults and 10 RMB for students.

Dalian, Liaoning