Haihe River

What are the most recommended things to do in Haihe River?

Visiting Haihe River offers opportunities for scenic boat tours, leisurely walks along the riverbanks, and enjoying the stunning views of Tianjin's skyline. The area is perfect for a relaxing day with nearby parks, historical bridges, and cultural sites such as the Tianjin Museum and the Italian Style Town. Take a river cruise to see the city's architecture from the water, especially the famous European-style buildings along the banks.


Introducing Haihe River

The Haihe River, the largest river system in North China and one of China's seven great rivers, forms the Haihe River Basin. Its lower reaches, after converging in Tianjin, become the Haihe River. The scenery along the Haihe River in Tianjin is truly beautiful, and a sightseeing cruise is a prime example of a Tianjin tour. Along the way, you can experience the changing times of Tianjin and admire the modern skyscrapers of the city.

Tianjin residents say the Haihe River encapsulates the city's history. A boat trip on the river's most eye-catching features are its distinctive bridges, the pride of Tianjin's cityscape. These include the Yongle Bridge, integrated with the giant Ferris wheel "Tianjin Eye," the Kaiba Bridge, one of Tianjin's iconic landmarks, and the Lion Grove, home to its myriad stone lions. Visitors can also admire the "Nine Bridges and Thirteen Scenic Spots" along the Haihe River, including the Dabeiyuan Commercial District, the historic Tianjin Railway Station, and the Italian-style street that blends Eastern and Western influences.

Climate and best time to travel

Warm temperate semi-arid early and semi-humid monsoon climate with rapid climate change;

Suitable for all seasons, spring and autumn are the best, and summer is prone to heavy rain

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

It is recommended to play for 1 to 2 hours

Tickets

Tickets are free, and the prices vary depending on the cruise route. The base price is 60 yuan per person.

Attraction opening hours

All day


Most Popular FAQs for Haihe River

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

Haihe River flows through the heart of Tianjin, serving as an important historical and cultural symbol of the city. During the 19th and early 20th centuries, it was central to trade and development, influenced by foreign settlements. Today, it remains a hub for both local and international activities, with the waterfront lined by modern and colonial-style architecture, reflecting Tianjin's rich heritage.

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

Haihe River is located in central Tianjin, flowing through the city's business and cultural districts. You can easily reach it via the metro (Line 1, Line 3), with stations such as Haihe Educational Park. Taxis and buses also serve the area, or you can take a walk along the river from several nearby attractions.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

There are no specific opening hours for the river itself, as it is an open public space. The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon for pleasant weather and to avoid crowds. Evening visits offer beautiful views with the city lights reflecting on the water.

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

There is no entrance fee for walking along the Haihe River. However, boat tours and river cruises may have a fee, typically ranging from 30-100 RMB. Tickets for cruises can be bought on-site or online in advance.

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

Booking tickets for boat tours is not mandatory, but it is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons. Booking 1-2 days in advance is ideal for securing a spot, especially for popular cruise times.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

To fully explore Haihe River, plan for about 2-3 hours. This allows for a river cruise, a walk along the riverbanks, and visiting nearby attractions like the Italian Style Town and Tianjin Museum.

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

The must-see highlights include the historical bridges over Haihe River, the picturesque riverside walk, the Italian Style Town, and the Tianjin Eye (Ferris wheel) located along the riverbanks.

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

Guided tours and audio guides are available for boat tours and some nearby attractions, such as the Tianjin Eye and the Italian Style Town. Tours are available in Mandarin and English.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best viewpoints for photography are from the bridges across Haihe River, especially during sunset or at night when the city lights reflect on the water. The view from the Tianjin Eye also offers an incredible aerial perspective of the river and the surrounding area.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start your visit with a boat cruise along Haihe River to get an overview of the area. Afterward, take a walk along the riverbanks, explore the Italian Style Town, and finish with a visit to the Tianjin Museum or the nearby Five Great Avenues area.

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

Yes, night visits are popular as the city lights up, creating a beautiful atmosphere along the river. While there are no specific light shows, the cityscape at night is an attraction in itself. Evening boat tours are also available, offering a unique view of Tianjin at night.

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

Haihe River can be crowded, especially during weekends and holidays. To avoid crowds, visit early in the morning or on weekdays. The area tends to be quieter during winter months as well.

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

Facilities along Haihe River include public toilets, cafes, restaurants, and small shops. There are also rest areas along the riverbanks where visitors can relax and enjoy the views. Water is available at most cafes and restaurants.

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

Yes, the Haihe River area is accessible for elderly, children, and disabled visitors. The riverside walkways are well-paved, and the boat tours are generally accessible to those with mobility issues.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Most shops and restaurants along the river accept mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay, as well as credit cards. It's still a good idea to carry some cash for smaller purchases.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are several riverside cafes and restaurants offering a variety of cuisines, from local Tianjin dishes to international options. Some popular spots include riverside coffee shops and restaurants serving seafood and Chinese hotpot.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Yes, vegetarian and vegan options are available at several restaurants along Haihe River. Halal food can also be found in the nearby Muslim Quarter of Tianjin.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Several hotels are located near Haihe River, including luxury options like the Renaissance Tianjin Lakeview Hotel and more budget-friendly options such as the Holiday Inn Express Tianjin Dongli.

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

Nearby attractions include the Ancient Culture Street, the Tianjin Museum, and the Five Great Avenues area. All these can be easily visited in a single day trip, especially if you use public transportation or taxis to move between them.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are many souvenir shops near Haihe River selling local crafts, tea, and traditional Chinese artwork. Popular souvenirs include Tianjin specialty snacks, porcelain, and embroidered items.

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

After visiting Haihe River, taxis, metro, and buses are convenient for exploring other parts of Tianjin. The Tianjin Railway Station and Binhai International Airport are easily accessible from this location.