Live Your Best Lives
Tianjin Library is one of China's earliest and most historic provincial public libraries, having been established nearly a century ago since its founding as the Zhili Library in 1908 (the 34th year of the reign of Emperor Guangxu of the Qing Dynasty). Its architectural design, conceived as a "wisdom paradise," emphasizes that libraries are buildings that carry wisdom. Functionally, it allows for shared reading for both the elderly and young people, making it a haven for citizens who love knowledge.
The Tianjin Library is very large, with five floors above ground and one floor underground. It functions as a shared reading space for the elderly and young people. Seven lighted atriums are set up inside the building to combine reading functions. A corridor-style shared space running from north to south is set up on the first floor. It is connected to the lakeside square on the north and the urban space on the south through two large open entrances, allowing people to enter the library freely.
Warm temperate semi-humid continental monsoon climate; Tianjin Library is mainly white, very clean and simple, suitable for travel in all seasons.
It is recommended to play for 2-3 hours
Free and open
Monday 2:00 PM - 7:30 PM
Tuesday-Sunday 09:00-19:30
The Tianjin Library is a modern cultural landmark in Tianjin. Established as a key center for learning and culture, it serves as both a public library and an architectural gem. The library offers a wide range of educational resources and has become a popular destination for visitors and locals alike, embodying the city's commitment to education and culture.
The Tianjin Library is located in the Hexi District of Tianjin. It is easily accessible by metro (Line 3, with a nearby station), bus, taxi, or even walking, depending on your starting point within the city.
The Tianjin Library is generally open from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM daily. The best times to visit are during weekday mornings or early afternoons when it’s less crowded, especially if you're looking for a peaceful environment to read or study.
There is no entrance fee to access the Tianjin Library. It is free for the public to visit. No tickets are required to enter, and you can simply walk in during its opening hours.
No advance booking is required. The Tianjin Library is open to the public, and you can visit at any time during the operating hours without a reservation.
Exploring the main areas of the library typically takes around 1 to 2 hours, depending on how much time you spend browsing the collection or relaxing in the public spaces.
While there are no formal guided tours or audio guides offered at the Tianjin Library, staff are usually available to assist visitors with general information about the library and ongoing exhibitions.
The best photography spots include the library's exterior, which features striking modern architecture, and the central atrium, which is filled with natural light and large open spaces that make for beautiful photos.
Start by exploring the central atrium and the main reading rooms. Then, visit any special exhibitions or galleries if available. You can end your visit with a relaxing break in the designated rest areas or cafes nearby.
While there are no light shows or special tours available at night, the library is open during the evening hours, providing a quieter atmosphere for those looking to study or enjoy the space after dark.
The library can get crowded on weekends and public holidays, particularly in the afternoon. For a quieter experience, visit during weekday mornings or early afternoons.
The Tianjin Library is equipped with clean restrooms, water fountains, and designated rest areas. There are also small cafes and snack bars within the library where you can relax and refresh yourself.
The library is accessible to visitors of all ages, including elderly and disabled visitors. The facility is wheelchair accessible, and there are elevators available for easy access to different floors.
Cash is not needed at the Tianjin Library, as most facilities accept mobile payments and credit cards for any services or purchases inside the library.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available at the nearby cafes and restaurants. Halal food may also be found in certain local restaurants within the area.
There are souvenir shops in the vicinity where you can purchase traditional Chinese crafts, books, and local Tianjin specialties such as Tianjin-style snacks and antiques.
After visiting the library, you can take a taxi or use public transportation (metro or buses) to reach nearby attractions or continue your trip within Tianjin.
