As the terminus to the Trans-Siberian Railway and largest Russian port on the Pacific Ocean, Vladivostok is a popular destination. A historic Vladivostok walking tour is the best way to explore the city. As an Acupuncturist-at-Sea, I awaken surprised to what I see from the deck. The bright sun is sparkling upon the dramatic Golden Horn Bay. Then, I quickly notice the iconic Trans-Siberian Railway Station, just outside our ship’s terminal. With minimal preparation, I set off solo on foot to make the most of my 1 day in Vladivostok.
History of Vladivostok
Vladivostok is the capital of the Primorye district, in a unique location where Russian, North Korean and Chinese borders converge. Vladivostok took many international stances from its strategic location. China owned Vladivostok until the Beijing Treaty. However, after the October Revolution, the Bolsheviks took control of this city making it the naval base for their Pacific fleet. During the Soviet Era (1958-92), Vladivostok closed off from tourism. But today, the vibe is more open with opportunities for foreigners to explore this fascinating city with a population of 605,000 people.
The Bay of the Zolotoy Rog or Golden Horn Bay is named after its resemblance to Istanbal’s harbor. The dramatic Russky Bridge is a cable-stayed, suspension bridge connecting the mainland to Russky Island. Also, its pylons’ height reaches 432-metres, making it one of the the largest bridges in the world. The historic Russky Island has 6 military forts and many batteries, amidst unique landscapes. The harbor is surrounded by beautiful hills, including a high point being Eagles Nest Hill at 214 meters. The hill is known for the views and white-tailed sea eagles there.
Vladivostok’s Maritime Influence
The maritime influence is omnipresent in this beautiful port, set on the peninsula called Muravyov-Amursky. There are impressive military ships lined up outside the Central Plaza, and in view from our ship, giving a posture of power and military prowess. The “Krasniy Vympel” is a sail-screw schooner, and patrol ship during WW I. It is open as a museum along the shore. Vladivostok is the eastern gate for international cruise lines and the starting point of ferry routes to Japan and Republic of Korea. Also, this city is the home port with 4 ice breakers, serving Russian and international arctic shipping lines. For example, the Kapitan Khlebnikov offers international tourist expeditions to Arctic and Antarctic regions.
Eastern Terminus for Great Siberian Railway
Immediately, I happily discover the eastern terminus of the Trans-Siberian Railway station next to the cruise terminal. For years, I was intrigued and wanted to venture on this 7- day (9,288 km) epic train journey from Moscow to Vladivostok. I stay to watch trains come and go on the multiple tracks outside the station. Then I wander for a closer look at the iconic main station. It opened in 1912, with a façade and interior decorated by almost 1000 porcelain tiles. Even more, they ornately depict birds, animals, plants and typical of Russian folklore.
Vladivostok Walking Tour
Next, I set off on my own walking tour, however, there are no English maps in the terminal. I follow the shoreline toward the massive military ships moored next to the golden, onion-domed Russian church in the near distance. There’s an upbeat vibe and I’m pleased to discover many European-style coffee shops on almost every block. Being Eurocentric from Seattle, this makes me feel at home and resonate with a culture.
Going toward the church, I find the conspicuous Central Plaza and signs leading to the Submarine Museum, which would be my next stop. There is a dramatic monument, entitled the Fighters for Soviet Power in the Far East. It’s dedicated to the bloodshed events from 1912-22, including the revolution, civil war and fighting with Japanese forces. (above photo) Additionally, the large open space of the Plaza is now used for celebrations and events, all facing the sea.
From the plaza, I follow the signs to the Submarine Museum, which is the most visited museum in Vladivostok. Walking just 1 km on the Korabelno-Naberezhnaya Embankment, I go toward the massive moored military ships. Then, I notice the Submarine Museum set up on land amidst the Memorial Complex with Eternal Fire, honoring Russian soldiers who died in WW II.
Next, I find the neatly restored Arch of Triumph (above photo), perched humbly atop a small hill and stairs. This monument commemorates the heirs to the Tsar’s throne for Nicholas Alexandrovich. It became destroyed during the Soviet period and restored in 2003. Additionally, there are many statues throughout this park and a Christian church in the middle with its golden, onion-shaped Russian domes.
Submarine S-56 Museum
In the memorial complex, I visit the Submarine S-56 Museum, where visitors walk and crawl through the vessel used in the Russian Pacific Fleet during WW II. It launched 14 successful attacks against rival ships. After the first section of photos and memorabilia, I crawl through the round door hole to handle the periscope and imagine what it would have been like to live this subterranean existence. Then, I crawl through the last door hole into the sleeping room, seeing the hanging bunk beds. Overall, I feel grateful for this experience, as it’s intriguing to imagine the type of people that could handle this compressed, deep existence in the ocean.
Then, I cross the road looking for a visitor’s center next to the military ships. There’s a board with pictures and explanations (in Russian and English) of all the historical sites in Vladivostok. As I looked at this, a tour guide tries to sell me a tour. Even though I decline, she gives me a free English Walking Tour Map. Finally, I get my map. However, I was proud of myself for figuring this much out with no preparation or map.
Car-free Promenade – Vladivostok Walking Tour
Following the map, I head for the Walking Street, that goes to the sea along a promenade. On the way to this car-free zone, I try one of the ubiquitous coffee shops and enjoy a nice latte and chocolate. Walking along the streets are numerous vendors with booths selling their souvenirs. Then, I notice a Holland America walking tour and catch their coattail for awhile listening in. The guide said that Vladivostok usually gets a lot of snow in winter; however, this year they had none. This was concerning to me, regarding thoughts of global warming.
At the ocean I walk along a beach and see recreational sites, such as, an IMAX theatre and amusement park with colorful rides. Overall, I enjoy the sea breeze, taking in the atmosphere. From there, I slowly head back to the ship and wander through neighborhoods. It’s a pleasant day for a walking tour, and I really do not want to go back.
Overall, Vladivostok Walking Tour
I like the European-style culture of this city. Even though I’m not a big military buff, I enjoy taking in the history of this intriguing city. With nice weather, a walking tour was easy and pleasant with the refreshing sea breeze, the trains humming throughout the city, numerous coffee shops and great shopping. However, I regret not finding a good Russian Restaurant for some bright beet borscht. Oh well, maybe next time.
Even though there was a predominant military focus on this Vladivostok walking tour, it still feels like an emerging art scene is trying to express from this culture. I found colorful, offbeat graffiti and murals along the way with coffee shops on almost every corner. Being at the terminus of the Trans-Siberian Railway, I could easily imagine all the unique stories from the past of epic journeys ending or beginning, along with emotional hellos and good-byes in Vladivostok. Bon Voyage Vladivostok, next time I hope to find you by train.
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