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Visit the Guangdong Guild Hall to explore its historical architecture, learn about the Guangdong province's cultural heritage, and enjoy the exhibitions showcasing local art and traditions.
In the old town of Tianjin, just a few dozen meters away from the Drum Tower, there is a quiet, ancient and charming traditional building. This is the Guangdong Guild Hall. It is the most complete, largest and most exquisitely decorated Qing Dynasty guild hall building in Tianjin. It is now the Tianjin Drama Museum.
In the era when my country's logistics were primarily based on grain transport, Tianjin, as North China's most important land and water port, hosted a concentration of grain and merchant ships at the Sancha River estuary in summer and autumn. Merchants from all over the country flocked to the area, and warehouses were built everywhere, attracting numerous businessmen from all over the country. The Tianjin Guangdong Guild Hall became a haven for these Guangdong compatriots, offering not only basic accommodations but also a venue for business negotiations, fellow townspeople gatherings, and festive entertainment.
Warm temperate semi-humid continental monsoon climate;
Suitable for all seasons
It is recommended to play for about 1 hour
8 yuan/person
Tuesday to Saturday 9:00-16:00
Sunday 9:00-12:00
Closed on Mondays
The Guangdong Guild Hall, built in the early 20th century, was once a meeting place for the Guangdong merchants in Tianjin. It is a symbol of the cultural exchange between southern China and the northern regions, reflecting the Guangdong people's influence in the area.
The Guangdong Guild Hall is located in the Nankai District of Tianjin. It is easily accessible by metro, with the nearest station being "Xiaobailou" (Line 3). Taxis and buses are also convenient transportation options.
The hall is open from 9 AM to 5 PM daily. The best time to visit is in the morning during weekdays to avoid the crowds.
The entrance fee is typically 20-30 RMB. Tickets can be purchased at the site or through local online platforms in advance.
Booking tickets in advance is not mandatory, but it is recommended during busy periods such as holidays or weekends.
It takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours to explore the hall and its exhibitions.
Key highlights include the main hall with its exquisite decorations, the exhibitions on Guangdong culture and trade history, and the beautiful traditional architecture of the guild hall itself.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and audio guides in both Mandarin and English can be rented for a small fee.
The best photography spots are in the main hall, where the intricate woodwork and decorations provide a beautiful backdrop. The courtyard and the exterior of the hall are also great for photos.
Start by exploring the exterior and the courtyard, then head inside to the main hall. Take time to view the exhibits showcasing the history of the Guangdong people and their influence on Tianjin.
Currently, the Guangdong Guild Hall does not offer night visits or light shows, but special exhibitions and events may be organized during festivals or holidays.
The hall can be crowded on weekends and public holidays. The least crowded times are early mornings on weekdays.
The hall has basic facilities, including toilets and a small café offering drinks. There are souvenir shops near the entrance where visitors can purchase traditional Guangdong crafts.
The attraction is relatively accessible, with ramps for elderly and disabled visitors. However, some areas may have narrow pathways, so assistance might be needed for those with mobility challenges.
Mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are accepted. Credit and debit cards are also accepted. Cash is not necessary, but can still be used for small purchases.
There are a number of restaurants and cafes near the hall, offering both local and international cuisine. For traditional Tianjin snacks, you can visit nearby eateries around Xiaobailou.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available in the nearby restaurants, and halal food is also offered in some local establishments.
There are several hotels nearby, including budget options and more upscale choices like the Holiday Inn Tianjin and Tianjin Tower Hotel.
Other nearby attractions include the Tianjin Ancient Culture Street, the Italian Style Town, and the Tianjin Museum. These can be easily combined into a day trip.
Yes, there are souvenir shops inside and around the site selling Guangdong-style crafts, traditional Chinese paintings, and cultural artifacts.
Taxi and metro (Line 3) are the best options to continue your trip after visiting the Guangdong Guild Hall. The Ancient Culture Street is within walking distance, and the Italian Style Town is a short taxi ride away.
