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Explore the vibrant shopping streets, visit art galleries and boutiques, enjoy local street food, and take in the beautiful traditional architecture. It's also a great place for photography, with its unique blend of modern and traditional elements.
The Tianshifang, located on the east side of the Haihe River between Xinkaihe'er Gate and Yongle Bridge, is the site of the Beikai Ferry, the last remaining ferry crossing on the Haihe River. Connecting upstream to the Beiyun River, it was the crucial crossing point for Emperor Zhu Di's "Tianjin Crossing," a crucial point for his historic crossing. The Tianshifang evokes the origin of the city's name, Tianjin. Approximately 50 meters long, 20 meters high, and 16 meters wide, the Tianshifang is said to be even larger than the marble barge at the Summer Palace in Beijing. Crafted entirely of intricately carved white marble, it resembles, from a distance, a massive ship about to set sail.
The ship is magnificent, its design and structure reminiscent of ancient vessels, highlighting the advanced navigational capabilities of the Ming Dynasty. Tianjin, situated on the shores of the Bohai Sea, is located at the starting point of the Haihe River sightseeing tour, adding considerable brilliance to the entire Haihe River tour route.
Warm temperate semi-humid continental climate; four distinct seasons, suitable for travel in all seasons.
It is recommended to play for 1-2 hours
free
All day
Tianshifang is a cultural and historical neighborhood in Tianjin, known for its traditional architecture and arts. It has preserved many of the old buildings, transforming them into modern spaces for shops, galleries, and cafes while retaining its historical charm.
Tianshifang is located in the center of Tianjin, close to the Italian Concession area. You can reach it via Tianjin Metro (Line 2, stop at Dongxing Road), bus, or taxi. Walking is also a good option if you are staying nearby.
The area is open year-round, but it’s most lively during the daytime and evening. The best time to visit is late afternoon to evening, when the area is bustling with locals and tourists enjoying the street food and cafes.
There is no entrance fee to walk around Tianshifang. However, individual attractions or stores may charge for entry or purchases. You can buy items or tickets directly at the shops or galleries.
No booking is required for general visits. However, for specific events, art exhibitions, or guided tours, it’s a good idea to book tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
You’ll need about 2-3 hours to fully explore Tianshifang, including time to browse the shops, galleries, and enjoy some street food.
Don’t miss the unique boutique shops, art galleries, and the food stalls along the streets. The preserved old architecture is also a key highlight, with its blend of modern and historical influences.
Guided tours are available, typically in Mandarin. However, English-speaking guides might be available upon request, so it’s a good idea to check in advance.
The best photography spots are along the bustling streets, especially during sunset or night when the lights illuminate the traditional architecture. The rooftops of some cafes also provide great panoramic views of the area.
Start by exploring the main streets and art galleries, then walk through the narrow alleys to discover hidden shops and food stalls. You can end your visit by relaxing in one of the cafes and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.
Yes, the area comes alive in the evening with light displays, street performances, and an energetic atmosphere. It’s an excellent time for photography and enjoying local street food under the lights.
The area can be crowded, especially on weekends and during holidays. To avoid the crowds, visit early in the morning or on weekdays.
There are several cafes, restaurants, and food stalls in the area, offering local and international cuisine. Toilets are available at the visitor center and in some larger shops. Rest areas are available in cafes and public spaces.
The streets of Tianshifang have some uneven surfaces, which could be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. However, it is generally accessible for children and families.
Both cash and mobile payments (like Alipay and WeChat Pay) are widely accepted. Credit cards are also commonly accepted in larger shops and restaurants.
There are numerous cafes and restaurants in and around Tianshifang offering local Tianjin cuisine, as well as international options like Italian, Japanese, and Western-style cafes.
Vegetarian and vegan food options are available in some of the cafes and restaurants. Halal food options may also be found at specific eateries catering to Muslim visitors.
There are several mid-range hotels and guesthouses near Tianshifang. For more luxurious options, you can consider staying in the city center, which is just a short taxi ride away.
Nearby attractions include the Ancient Culture Street (Guwenhua Jie), the Tianjin Eye Ferris wheel, and the Italian Style Town. These can all be easily combined in a day trip.
Yes, there are many souvenir shops selling traditional Chinese crafts, art pieces, tea, and snacks. Popular souvenirs include silk products, local artwork, and calligraphy items.
After visiting Tianshifang, you can take a taxi or use the Tianjin Metro to reach other parts of the city. The area is well connected by public transportation.
