by Lian Slayford-Wei

Created on: February 10, 2010

Travel Destinations: Tianjin

Like Beijing, Tianjin belongs to no province, it is a special municipality, but unlike Beijing it is often overlooked by tourists who flock to the capital. However, Tianjin is a wonderful destination, full of history, cultural attractions, beautiful scenery and the most amazing food.

Tianjin is famous for its amazing concession-era architecture, of which it is very proud of, giving the city a kind of shabby-chic look. During the run up to the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games, the city started to give itself a face-lift for the influx of tourists.

Throughout history, Tianjin’s prosperity has been linked with Beijing. Beijing became the capital under the Yuan dynasty and this was when Tianjin’s prosperity started to rise as a grain-storage post. When the Grand Canal became functional for Beijing, Tianjin was at the junction for both naval and land routes. By the 15th century, Tianjin was a walled garrison and has continued to grow ever since.  

Tianjin is a wonderful city to visit with an incredible range of activities and places to see, so everyone will be happy on their trip here. Why not start your trip with a look at the Treaty Port Architecture. Tianjin is a wonderful example of European architecture with concession-era features.

Start this trip by walking north up the Jiefang Beilu where you will see the former Kincheng Bank (Jincheng Yinhang). On the corner is the former site of the Huabi Bank which dates back to the 1920s. You can see the Citibank Building on the road at No 90. There are simply too many old banks, churches, warehouses and other buildings, but they are wonderful places to visit to get the feel of the area.

If you love shopping, you must visit the Antique Market. Numerous vendors sprawl in every direction where you can browse and haggle for silverware, porcelain, clocks, and Cultural Revolution memorabilia. The best time to come here is on a Sunday but vendors are here during the week.

Walk up to Ancient Culture Street (Guwenhua Jie) which has recently been expanded. You can find everything here, from calligraphy to paintings, tea sets to paper cuts, from clay figurines to food. You will find goods from all over China for you to browse through.

You will also find Tianhou Temple on the west side of Ancient Culture Street. Tianhou is the goddess of the sea who is also known by the more recognised names of Mazu and Niangniang. Within the main hall is the Niangniang Palace, which holds a magnificent effigy

• 1
• 2
• Next Page >>