Tianjin, one of the four municipalities in China, is a blend of historical charm and modern ingenuity.

The city has gained great popularity due to its elegant feel combining architecture, colorful markets, and scenery along its riverbanks. Tianjin is a significant cultural site that is relatively close to Beijing.

The following guide explores the most fascinating places that make Tianjin the ultimate tourist getaway point.

Five Great Avenues: A Historical Stroll

Wudadao, or the Five Great Avenues, is made up of five big avenues aligned with European-style buildings from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. More than 2,000 well-preserved buildings blending styles such as the Renaissance, Greek, and Gothic line these avenues. Sometimes, it is referred to as an open-air museum of international architecture, a remnant of the city's history and changing faces under globalization.

Ferris Wheel along the Riverside: Tianjin Eye

The Tianjin Eye is a large Ferris wheel built over the Haihe River and serves as part of the iconic landmarks within the city. It stands 120 meters in height and presents a very peculiar perspective to passengers, with wide-reaching views over the city and the river from above. Especially at night, the Tianjin Eye is lit up in an array of colors, making it a really picturesque sight, mirroring into the river below. This would be a perfect site to visit for families, couples, or anyone interested in framing a glimpse of Tianjin's skyline.

Ancient Culture Street: A Taste of Tradition

For a glimpse into traditional Chinese culture, Ancient Culture Street is just the place. This bustling street is lined with colored shops, temples, and teahouses, offering everything from handmade crafts to local delicacies. The area is known for its traditional Qing-style architecture, with intricate decorations and vibrant red lanterns. Key sites include the Tianhou Palace, a temple dedicated to the sea goddess Mazu, which has a history dating back over 600 years.

Porcelain House: An Artistic Marvel

Porcelain House is an oddity, but probably one of the most interesting museums that can be seen to show just how creative and artistic this Chinese porcelain can be. French-style mansion bedecked with thousands of pieces of porcelain comprising vases, plates, and statues-just so labor-of-love sensitive. The house, which took several years to finish, incorporates Western architecture with traditional Chinese ceramics, making it one of the most unique museums in town. It is a definite visit for art lovers and those who feel intrigued by anything unconventional in design.

Italian Style Town: A Slice of Europe

Italian Style Town: Yi Da Li Feng Qing Jie, an up-class street, takes its guests to Europe with every street paved with cobble stones, every Italian restaurant, or its building styled in the fashion of the Renaissance. First built during the era of Italian concessions, this place has been restored painfully and is now a hub for cafes, shops, and galleries. It's a fine place to lounge around, have some meals, and experience Tianjin's history from another angle.

Food Street: A Gastronomic Fairy Tale

Food Street in Tianjin Heping District is more like a foodies' heaven, lined with almost all kinds of local dishes and street foods. Famous snacks include Goubuli baozi or steamed stuffed buns, Erduoyan fried rice cakes, and Jianbing or Chinese pancakes. Food Street is a busy marketplace where one can experience traditional Tianjin flavors; hence, it is a must-see destination if you want to have an authentic gastronomic adventure.

Haihe River Cruise: Scenic Waterway Views

The Haihe River cuts through the center of Tianjin and allows for scenic cruises, showing guests the skyline and landmark buildings from the water. This is incredibly romantic in the evening when the city lights up and major landmarks along the river are beautifully lit. This allows for a soft tour of some of the best things to see in Tianjin, including the Tianjin Eye, Jiefang Bridge, and various historic building that line the riverbanks.

Interaction with Lykkers

Lykkers, have you ever been to Tianjin or explored the various attractions in and around it? From Ancient Culture Street to enjoying a ride on the Tianjin Eye or taking in the architecture of Five Great Avenues, share experiences and favorite places. If Tianjin is still on your bucket list, which attraction would you most want to visit?