Tianjin's 12 Most Important Landmarks

 Century Clock Tianjin | © Jon Santangelo/Flickr
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/santangelo-jon/4527931559”> Century Clock Tianjin | © Jon Santangelo/Flickr</a>
Jon Santangelo

Tianjin is one of the most underrated megacities of China. Although it’s less revered than its tier counterparts of Beijing and Shanghai, don’t discount what this metropolis has to offer. Tianjin is a blend of pre-modern European flair, traditional Chinese culture and has a plethora of sites to see. Of the hundred of landmarks in Tianjin, here are some of the most important.

1. Eye of Tianjin

Bridge

1. Eye of Tianjin

Not only is this 394 foot (120 m) tall Ferris wheel the only one in the world built on a bridge. It also offers the best views in the whole of Tianjin. A ride takes 30 minutes and you can watch as boats cross below through the bridge. During the day you can see all the variations of the classic European and modern architectural icons that define Tianjin. In the evening you will get a magnificent view of the glistening city lights. Tip: save his for a clear and sunny day.

Yongle Bridge of Sancha River, Hebei District, Tianjin 300010, China

Tianjin Eye |© Ken Marshall/Flickr

2. Tianhou Palace

Don’t miss this small but amazing temple that dates back to the Yuan Dynasty when you visit Ancient Culture Street. Enter Tianhou Palace, a Taoist temple built in 1326 to honor of Goddess of the Sea, Mazu. This sacred site is now a public museum and is a highlight of the bustling shopping district.

China, Tianjin, Nankai, Ancient Cultural St, 鼓楼北 +86 22 2728 2696

3. Quanyechang Bazaar / Shopping Mall

Bazaar, Shopping Mall

The first thing you should know is that instead of mannequins, Quanye Bazaar has live models for showcasing clothing. The iconic shopping destination stands five stories tall, spans a block, and still maintains its classic European appeal. Designed by a Fench architect in 1928, be sure to check out all nine of its department stores.

290 Heping Rd, HengLong GuangChang, Heping Qu, Tianjin Shi, China, 300041 +86 22 2730 3771

5. Xikai Catholic Church

Cathedral, Church

Regarded as one of Tianjin’s most important landmarks, Xikai church was constructed in the early 1900s by the French. Still well used today, the interior is beautifully refurbished and features statues and paintings that you would expect to find in Europe.

9 Xining Rd, Heping Qu, Tianjin Shi, China, 300020 022-028-85568253

https://www.instagram.com/p/BPVbvDwhENn/

6. Marco Polo Square

Central to Italian Style Street is in Tianjin’s Marco Polo Square. Paying homage to the Italians who once occupied this portion of the town, and the explorer, Marco Polo who was among the most famed visitors to the Eastern world. Near the square are European-style restaurants, stores, and shops. At night, swing by to experience some of the city’s best nightlife.

China, Tianjin, Hebei, Minzu Rd, 光复路 +86 22 8761 3413

https://www.instagram.com/p/BSgUN8rgLwh/

7. Ancient Culture Street's Mingliu Teahouse

Ancient Culture Street is fully designed to be reminiscent of the Qing Dynasty era. Tianjin’s deluxe shopping street is bound with limitless options of food and merchandise. From renowned local snacks to craftwork from local artists, potters, and silk clothing designers, Ancient Culture Street is a landmark in itself. Having tea at a tea house is a facet of Chinese culture, but at Mingliu Teahouse, you’ll discover something more. Crosstalk is a cultural keepsake of Chinese comedy, and it was started in Tianjin. Come to Mingliu to experience the live show for yourself and witness two dueling hosts try to both compliment and outwit one another in Tianjin fashion. Best to bring a translator if you’re not fluent in Mandarin.

61号-8 Ancient Cultural St, TianJin GuWenHua Jie, Nankai Qu, Tianjin Shi, China +86 22 2711 6382

8. Century Clock

Memorial, Building

At the end of the steel retractable bridge of Jiefang is the illustrious timekeeper, Century Clock. This structure isn’t actually that old, yet it’s impression is timeless. The lunar clock may not actually work, but its design brings to life the 12 astrological signs. The symbols of Taurus, Capricorn, Pisces, and the nine other icons each have their own slice of the clock.

9. The Astor Hotel

Hotel

The original site of the Astor Hotel is hidden, but it’s as historically relevant to hotels in China as it gets; one of the first hotels in China. Go underground to see the museum: a slice of the Victorian era’s hospitality age.

No.199 Jiefang North Road, Heping District, Tianjin 301508, China

https://www.instagram.com/p/BTn_SIgDVgb

Confucian Temple

Hidden downtown is an important relic of the past. The Temple of Confucius was erected in the early Qing Dynasty and frequented by Tianjin’s leaders. Still standing today, this temple features a singular honor to the great Confucius as well as other halls of prayer.

No.1 Dongmenli, Dongma Road, Nankai District, Tianjin 300090, China

10. Tianjin Radio and Television Tower

Restaurant

This telecommunications tower was built in 1991 and is one of the tallest towers in the world. Two-thirds of the tower’s walkable space is an observation deck, complete with a revolving restaurant. Surrounded by water, here you can get one of the best views of Tianjin’s skyline.

1 Weijin S Rd, Hexi Qu, Tianjin Shi, China

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

Culture Trip Spring Sale

Save up to $1,100 on our unique small-group trips! Limited spots.

X
Edit article