Baiyu Hill (Baiyushan)

Some Siege of Port Arthur Sites Today / 旅順攻囲戦

Lüshunkou District / 旅顺口区 / 旅順口區 is a district of Dalian (also called Lüshun City / 旅顺市 / 旅順市 or literally Lüshun Port / 旅顺港 / 旅順港) that was formerly known as Port Arthur / 亚瑟港 / 亞瑟港 / Порт-Артур and Ryojun / 旅順 and is located at the extreme southern tip of the Liaodong Peninsula.

The Siege of Port Arthur / 旅順攻囲戦 / Оборона Порт-Артура (August 1, 1904 – January 2, 1905) was the longest and most violent land battle of the Russo-Japanese War. Port Arthur had been widely regarded as one of the most strongly fortified positions in the world. However, during the First Sino-Japanese War, General Nogi Maresuke had taken the city from the forces of Qing China in only a few days. The ease of his victory during the previous conflict, and overconfidence by the Japanese General Staff in its ability to overcome improved Russian fortifications, led to a much longer campaign and far greater losses than expected.

Some defensive guns from the battle still remain overlooking the city; but are difficult to find on your own.

Baiyu Mountain Scenic Area / 白玉山景区 (158 Baiyushan Street / 白玉山街158号) is a small mountain (130 metres above sea level), offering good views of the Lüshun Military Port. A memorial tower stands at the peak of the mountain. The memorial tower was built by the Japanese to commemorate their victory in the Russo-Japanese War. It now stands as a reminder of the Japanese invasion. Entry is free.

Lüshun Railway Station / 旅顺火车站 was built by the Russians between 1900 and 1903 as part of what was then known as the Chinese Eastern Railway. The station is noteworthy for its Russian architectural style. Passenger rail services ceased in 2014, but the station remains open to visitors.

Note that the Lüshun Metro Station / 旅顺地铁站 is the metro station closest to the historic city of Lüshun. Nonetheless, it's still relatively remote, so it's probably best to transfer to a bus or taxi upon your arrival.