Benxi is a prefecture-level city located in the Liaoning province of China, south-southeast of Shenyang. Population: 937,805. It was founded as a metallurgical center in 1915. Bengang is the largest steel manufacturer in Benxi. Benxi has pollution problems due to the proximity of steel production. Compared to its more wealthy neighbour Shenyang, Benxi city has poor transportation infrastructure and waste management. The countryside, however, has rivers and limestone cliffs around Guanmenshan Forest garden where the forest acers turn bright red in Autumn.

A river 3,000 meters long, 2 meters deep and wide enough for 20-30 boats, is found flowing through a giant 5 million-year cave 35 km from downtown Benxi. The cave is also filled with countless stalagmites and stone flowers, pillars and curtains.