Fifth Avenue

What are the most recommended things to do in Fifth Avenue?

Visit the historic colonial-style buildings, take a walk along the charming pedestrian street, explore local cafes and boutique shops, enjoy the beautiful architecture, and capture the sights with photography. Don’t miss out on the local restaurants offering authentic Tianjin cuisine.


Introducing Fifth Avenue

Wudadao is located in the southern part of Tianjin’s central urban area. It has five streets named Chengdu, Chongqing, Dali, Munan and Machang running side by side from east to west. It is the most complete group of Western-style buildings preserved in Tianjin and even in China. Tianjin people call it "Wudadao".

The Wudadao area boasts over 2,000 garden-style houses in diverse international architectural styles, built in the 1920s and 1930s, totaling over one million square meters. Among the more than 300 representative buildings, 89 are British, 41 Italian, 6 French, 4 German, and 3 Spanish. There are also numerous Renaissance, Classical, Eclectic, Baroque, courtyard, and other hybrid Chinese and Western styles, making it known as the World Architecture Expo.

Climate and best time to travel

temperate monsoon climate;

Suitable for all seasons, with the best weather from May to November

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Tianjin Technology and Business University/Tianjin Foreign Studies University

Built in 1921, the main building has three floors and a basement. The exterior walls are covered with large mushroom stones, the Manser-style tile roof, and a large round clock. It is in the French Romanesque architectural style.


Muknam Province

The 2.08-kilometer-long road boasts 74 distinctive buildings, 22 former residences of famous figures, and four municipal-level cultural relics protection sites. Small Western-style buildings of varying styles are nestled among the green trees on both sides of the road, and strolling through it creates a sense of just the right spatial scale between the road, buildings, and trees.


Former Residence of Zhang Xueliang

Zhang Xueliang's former residence, located at 78 Chifeng Road, Heping District, Tianjin, consists of two brick-and-wood structures, front and back. The architecture is luxurious, beautiful, and elegant. The second and third floors of the front building feature roof terraces. The interior is spacious and elegant, with Philippine wood used for the staircase, floors, doors, and windows. Sanitary facilities are complete, and the courtyard is extensively lawned.


It is recommended to play for 1 to 2 hours

Tickets

Free, sightseeing by horse-drawn carriage costs NT$80

Attraction opening hours

Open all day

Horse-drawn carriage service hours: 8:30-18:30


Most Popular FAQs for Fifth Avenue

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Fifth Avenue in Tianjin is a historic area showcasing early 20th-century colonial architecture, primarily influenced by European designs. It was once the location of foreign concessions and remains a cultural and historical hub in Tianjin, reflecting the city's cosmopolitan past.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Fifth Avenue is located in the Nankai District of Tianjin. It is easily accessible by taking the Tianjin Metro Line 1, with a nearby station called "Fifth Avenue" (Wudadao) or by taxi. The area is also great for walking, as it’s a pedestrian-friendly zone.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Fifth Avenue is an open-air area with no set opening hours, though shops and attractions typically open around 10 AM and close by 9 PM. The best time to visit is in the late afternoon or early evening when the weather is pleasant, and the area comes alive with lights and activity.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

There is no entrance fee to walk around Fifth Avenue itself. However, certain attractions and museums in the area may have small fees for entry. Tickets for these can be purchased on-site.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

No advance booking is required to explore Fifth Avenue. However, if you plan to visit specific attractions like museums or galleries, it’s advisable to check availability and book tickets ahead of time for popular locations.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Exploring Fifth Avenue can take around 2-3 hours. This allows time to stroll through the area, enjoy the architecture, visit a few cafes or shops, and take photos.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

The must-see highlights include the historical architecture along the street, local boutiques, Tianjin’s traditional architecture at the Italian Style Town, and a few art galleries and museums dedicated to the city’s history.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available for those who want a deeper understanding of the area’s history and architecture. English-speaking guides may be available, especially for tourists, but it’s recommended to check in advance.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots are the historical buildings lining Fifth Avenue, especially in the early morning or evening when the lighting is optimal. The view of the street with its vintage European-style architecture is quite picturesque.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at the western end of Fifth Avenue and walk eastward to explore the buildings, taking time to stop at local cafes. Consider visiting the nearby Tianjin Ancient Culture Street or the Italian-style buildings for more exploration.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Yes, the area looks beautiful at night when the buildings are lit up. While there aren't light shows, the street itself is a vibrant spot to visit after dark, with a lively atmosphere, restaurants, and bars.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Fifth Avenue can be crowded on weekends and during peak tourist seasons. For a more peaceful experience, visit early in the morning on weekdays or during off-peak times, such as late afternoon on weekdays.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

There are many restaurants, cafes, and shops along Fifth Avenue. Public toilets are available at certain points, and there are rest areas where you can relax. Water and snacks are sold at local stores.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Yes, Fifth Avenue is a pedestrian-friendly area and is mostly accessible for elderly, children, and disabled visitors. However, be aware of the cobblestone streets, which may present some challenges for wheelchair users.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Credit cards and mobile payments (like Alipay and WeChat Pay) are widely accepted in the shops and cafes along Fifth Avenue. It’s still a good idea to carry some cash for small purchases or in case you visit smaller shops that might not accept cards.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are plenty of cafes and restaurants nearby, offering both traditional Tianjin food and international cuisine. You can find cozy cafes, Chinese dumpling restaurants, and Western-style eateries in the area.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Yes, there are vegetarian and vegan options in the area, including Chinese vegetarian restaurants. Halal food is available in some restaurants catering to the Muslim community in Tianjin.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are many hotels near Fifth Avenue, ranging from budget hotels to luxury accommodations. Some options include the Astor Hotel Tianjin, Tianjin Marriott Hotel, and other mid-range hotels within walking distance.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include the Ancient Culture Street, the Tianjin Eye (a giant Ferris wheel), and the Nankai University. You can also explore the Italian Style Town or visit Tianjin's museums, such as the Tianjin Museum or the Ancient Observatory.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, souvenir shops are scattered along Fifth Avenue. Typical souvenirs include traditional Chinese handicrafts, silk items, Tianjin specialty snacks, and local tea.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

From Fifth Avenue, you can easily take a taxi or metro (via the Nankai Line or Line 1) to other parts of Tianjin. If you're continuing your trip to Beijing, high-speed trains and buses are available from Tianjin Railway Station.