Tianjin is a bustling metropolis in northern China and one of the country’s five central cities. With access to airports, ports, high-speed trains and a blend of eastern and western architecture, this is a fascinating city in China. Visitors can enjoy riverboat cruises, a trip to the city’s Ferris wheel, parks, temples and an abundance of shopping facilities.
The first port of call for any visitor should be the Eye of Tianjin, a Ferris Wheel overlooking the Hai River and Tianjin City Centre. The 120-metre high wheel has 64 transparent capsules, perfect for skyline photographs and 360-degree views. It’s a wonderful way to gain bearings for new arrivals into the city. Alternatively, Tianjin Tower is over 336 metres in height and offers visitors the chance to view the city from the glass-fronted observation deck at just over 304 metres. Another popular tourist attraction is Tianjin Italian Town. From here, visitors can see across the river to Ancient Culture Street, Central Business District and Peace Shopping and Pedestrian Street. Italian Town is ideal for visitors who require a selection of elegant 24-hour bars and International restaurants. Visitors will also enjoy a tour of nearby Wudadao or Five Avenues, as there are over 230 buildings showcasing the architecture of the major European cities and architectural styles. At Tianjin, the Hai River connects with both the Yangtze and Yellow Rivers. A river boat cruise is particularly stunning at dusk as the city illuminates and highlights the striking architecture of the riverside buildings.
The city of Tianjin is home to an important rail station which transports visitors via high-speed train to Beijing, Shanghai and several other Chinese cities. The city bus offers sight-seeing routes and regular inner city routes for visitors. The subway stations have several lines which function throughout the city, and taxi services are easy to access. Tianjin also has an airport and a major port with International passenger routes. During high season, cruise liners arrive from Europe, Japan and South Korea into Xingang Port, an hours’ drive from Tianjin City Centre.
The land of Tianjin was created by the sedimentation of rivers entering the sea at Bohai Gulf. When the Grand Canal of China opened, the city thrived, developing into a major trading centre. The Emperor named the city Tianjin, meaning “Heavenly Ford”. The city has a fascinating history which spans centuries and architecture which has been inspired from all over the world thanks to its early trading routes. Visitors will enjoy the blend of east and west and the ancient and modern.