Haihe Italian Scenic Area

Introducing Haihe Italian Scenic Area

The Tianjin Italian Style District is located in Hebei District, Tianjin. It is a square area surrounded by Wujing Road, Boai Road, Shengli Road and Jianguo Road in Hebei District. The district has nearly 200 well-preserved European buildings with a century of history. It is the largest Italian-style building complex outside of Italy.

A statue commemorating Dante Alighieri, the Italian poet, founder of the modern Italian language, and a leading figure in the European Renaissance, has been officially unveiled at Dante Square in the Italian Style District, at the intersection of Minzhu Road and Ziyou Avenue. This white marble statue, in typical European Renaissance style, exudes a rich Italian atmosphere.

Climate and best time to travel

The East Asian monsoon region has a continental climate with dry and rainy winters and springs and heavy rain in summers.

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Marco Polo Square

Marco Polo Square is located on Tianjin's Italian-style street. The villas surrounding the square are mostly roofed with Italian-style corner pavilions, ranging from garden pavilions to square pavilions, and from round to square columns. These pavilions are embellished with round arches, flat arches, pointed arches, continuous arches, and vertical columns. These pavilions, staggered in height, create a beautiful architectural space, representing one of the last remaining authentic Mediterranean architectural complexes in Asia.

Jai Alai Club

The Huiliqiu Club, located not far from Marco Polo Square, boasts a magnificent tower-like structure. This venue, under the guise of sports competition, offers open gambling and rakeback, making it Tianjin's largest casino. Foreigners call it the "Huiliqiu Club," while the Chinese call it the "destroying furnace," as countless people have lost everything gambling there.

Italian Barracks

Nine countries once built concessions and stationed troops in Tianjin. The Italian military barracks is the best preserved foreign military barracks in Tianjin. The first floor of the building is public facilities, and the above are soldiers' dormitories. At that time, there were a total of 999 Italian officers and soldiers. Later, it was used as a military barracks by the Japanese, Americans and Kuomintang troops.

It is recommended to play for about 3 hours

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Haihe Italian Scenic Area

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

The Haihe Italian Scenic Area in Tianjin was established in the early 20th century when Italy set up a concession area in the city. The area retains many historical Italian-style buildings, showcasing Tianjin’s past as a hub of foreign concessions and cultural exchange during the colonial era.

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

The Haihe Italian Scenic Area is located in the heart of Tianjin, along the Haihe River. It can be accessed easily by metro (Line 9), bus, or taxi. It’s also within walking distance from several major landmarks in the city.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The area is open year-round. The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild. It’s best to visit in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday crowds and heat.

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

There is no entrance fee to visit the Haihe Italian Scenic Area as it is an open public area. However, boat rides and some cultural activities may have separate charges. Tickets can be bought on-site.

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

For most attractions in the area, such as boat tours, advance booking is not necessary. However, it’s recommended to book tickets for boat rides in advance during peak tourist seasons.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

It typically takes 1 to 2 hours to explore the Haihe Italian Scenic Area, depending on whether you choose to take a boat ride or visit museums and galleries within the area.

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

The must-see highlights include the old Italian-style buildings, the Haihe River, and the European-style piazzas. Be sure to check out the Tianjin Italian Style Town and enjoy the riverside views.

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

Guided tours are available in both Mandarin and English. Audio guides in various languages can also be rented for a more in-depth exploration of the area.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

Some of the best photography spots include the riverfront areas, the bridges spanning the Haihe River, and the piazzas with their Italian-style architecture. The old buildings and the river provide a picturesque backdrop for photos.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by walking along the Haihe River, enjoying the views of the Italian-style buildings. Then, head towards the main piazza to see the architecture up close. You can end the visit with a relaxing boat ride or visit the nearby cafes for a break.

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

The Haihe Italian Scenic Area is beautifully illuminated at night, making it a great place for evening walks. Special tours and light shows are occasionally held, especially during festivals or holidays.

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

The area can get crowded, especially on weekends and holidays. For a more peaceful visit, try going on weekdays or during early morning hours.

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

The area has public toilets, water fountains, and several cafes and restaurants where visitors can rest and enjoy local dishes. There are also souvenir shops selling memorabilia from Tianjin.

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

The Haihe Italian Scenic Area is relatively accessible for elderly, children, and disabled visitors, with wide paths along the river and ramps for easy access to most areas. However, some of the historical buildings may have limited accessibility.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Both cash and mobile payments (such as WeChat Pay and Alipay) are widely accepted in the area. Credit cards may also be accepted at some restaurants and shops.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are several restaurants and cafes nearby serving both local Chinese food and international cuisine. You can also find Italian-themed restaurants that reflect the area’s heritage.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Yes, vegetarian and vegan options are available in many restaurants nearby. Halal food can be found in the Muslim Quarter or specialized restaurants in the city.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several hotels near the Haihe Italian Scenic Area, including both luxury hotels and budget accommodations. Popular options include the Tianjin Marriott Hotel and various boutique hotels in the city center.

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

Nearby attractions include the Tianjin Ancient Culture Street, the Tianjin Museum, and the Haihe Riverfront. These can be easily combined into a day trip for a full experience of Tianjin’s culture and history.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are several souvenir shops selling items such as traditional Chinese handicrafts, Tianjin-themed gifts, and Italian-inspired merchandise, including local artwork, silk scarves, and miniature statues.

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

The best transportation options include taking a taxi, bus, or metro from the Haihe Italian Scenic Area to other parts of the city. The area is well-connected by public transport.