Cultural Expansion - Squares in Dalian

There is no dearth of cultural and historical sites in Dalian and among its many attractions are its large squares that highlight the rich historical and cultural heritage of the city besides giving it a distinct identity. Dalian’s squares are some of the most recognizable landmarks of the city.

Haizhiyun Square is located at the northern end of Haizhiyun Park which is the most scenic coastal area of the city. Covering an area of 380,000 sq m. it is strewn with art works that include a 20m long steel sculpture in the centre of the square, a man made waterfall which is also in the centre, five groups of sculptures depicting a family of three enjoying a beach vacation, a mother tying the shoe laces of her son, two fishermen, an old man playing chess and a group of nine young pioneers and their teacher on their way to the beach.

Xinghai Square or the Sea of Stars, built in 1997 to celebrate the return of Hong Kong to China, is believed to be the largest square in Asia covering an area of 450,000 sq m. The design of the square is said to resemble that of the Temple of Heaven in Beijing. Among the more interesting features here are the imprint of 1,000 footprints of some of Dalian’s residents, a white marble clock at the centre of the square and a singing fountain around it. Adjacent to the square are some of the city’s major tourist attractions such as the aquarium and a huge indoor sports complex.

Zongshan Square was built by the Russians in the late 19th and early 20th centuries and displays strong European influences in the buildings surrounding the elegant marble circle, which is 168 metres in diameter. These buildings are now occupied by offices and the area has turned into the commercial centre of the city. It is a popular place for local people to hang out during the weekends.

Dalian People’s Square is the administrative centre of the city with many government offices located here. A flag raising platform and a huge musical fountain are located to the south of the square. A flag raising ceremony takes place here daily.

Youhao Square has a huge crystal sphere showing five people from different ethnic groups holding it aloft. While the crystal sphere is lit from the inside at night, the neighbouring area is the entertainment and cultural centre of the city and is dotted with cinemas and leisure facilities.

Dalian Olympic Square built in 1999 to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the city is a complex of five circular squares and is divided into the northern and southern sections. There is a football field and 12 tennis courts in the southern section. The northern section has a huge musical fountain in the shape of a pair of hands and a sculpture of the Olympic symbol.

Shengli or Victory Square is located in front of the railway terminal and is surrounded by shops and department stores. The sunken area in the middle of the square is a venue for commercial promotions and theatre performances.

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