What began in 1914 as a smart place to store dinosaur bones and stuffed birds has gradually evolved into one of the most recognized natural history museums on the planet. Its research contributions to science are many. Fortunately, from a visitor's standpoint, this has translated into a staggering display show. Six separate halls, ranging from animal ecology and marine shellfish to insects and aquatic creatures dazzle with sophisticatedly modern exhibits. The dinosaur exhibit in the Paleontology Hall is especially noted.
Depending on personal taste, this collection of stores and stalls is viewed either as a fiendish tourist trap, or as Tianjin's superstar attraction. False red and green painted wooden storefronts capped by elaborate pagoda styled tiled roofs canyon the street so as to resemble 19th century China. Yes, it is all fake, but yes it works. Souvenirs are plenty with a heavy emphasis on teapots, clay figurines, swords, musical instruments, coins and books. Restaurants are numerous too. Admission is free.
Listed as one of the largest Zen temples in northern China, this house of worship tilts the mind's proverbial “wow-meter” all the way into the red. It consists of two temples: Old and New. The Old was built in 1669 and features a dazzling display of Buddhist carvings. In 1940 the New was added and is best known for housing a gold-gilded Sykiamuni statue dating all the way back to the Ming dynasty. A vegetarian cafe is on site.
All of the wonders of the universe are explained in common layman terms at this wandering museum. Opened in 1995, the main building resembles a large bridge topped with a cresting sun, which sets the tone for what visitors can expect to find inside. All 318 exhibits combine fun and education through modern, computer enhanced interactive displays. The 300-seat planetarium enjoys star status with visitors for its 360-degree movie theater.
Given the incomparable beauty of this park, Tianjin's largest, it is difficult to comprehend that this was once a brick-making site. Opened in 1951, the park features three lakes (West, East and South), all perfect for floating about in rented rowboats. A constellation of 13 islets dot East Lake and are connected by a series of pedestrian arch bridges. Ornate pavilions and towers occupy each islet. The park also houses a kid's amusement center. Can you say “family fun?”
Tanggu, a busy seaport that has shunned tourism for industry, is an unlikely location for this jovial amusement park. Yet, come summer and it jumps with humanity. Located about 30 minutes south of Tianjin on the Bohai Gulf, the park harbors the largest manmade beaches and waterslides in China. Constant blaring music piped in on the park's speakers adds to the park's carefree atmosphere. Waterslides cost an additional amount.
It does not require a lot of walking along this meandering river to realize that Tianjin's city planners sure know what they are doing. Elaborate flower gardens, cascading fountains, wild sculptures and manicured parks line both sides of the river making it the perfect location for an introductory stroll. The city skyline borders the river, offering an enlightening mix of colonial and contemporary architecture, including the world-praised Wanghailou Church. If time allows board a day-long tour boat.
Pad around the paths in this park and downtown Tianjin suddenly feels 257 miles away. Impressively rustic, it rates as the perfect spot to enjoy a quick timeout from the city's endless maw of cars and people. Dirt paths wind through thick stands of pines and cherry-apple trees, and meticulous gardens explode with flowers, including Chinese roses. There is also a fountain and two "wow-look-at-that" rockeries. So, pack a lunch and prepare to relax.
Founded in 1895, this stately old college enjoys the lofty distinction of being the first institution of higher learning in modern China. Fueled by the motto of "Seek truth from facts," the college features 11 schools and an enrollment of more than 16,000 students. Fans of architecture especially enjoy wandering the campus and taking it in its wealth of classically designed old buildings. Surrounded by forest the college enjoys a park-like setting.
Dedicated to Zhou Enlai and his wife, Deng Yingchao, the two played prominent roles in the founding of the Chinese Communist Party and in forging open dialogue with the United States in 1972. Despite having such a heavy influence on Chinese history, the museum focuses more on the couple's love for each other rather than on their respective political roles. Part of the collection features trinkets and knickknacks from their home.
This modern architectural feat was designed specifically as a football venue for the 2008 Beijing Summer Olympics. Dubbed the "Water Drop" for its likeness, Tianjin Olympic Center Stadium can seat 60,000 spectators.The stadium has systems for recycling water and collecting solar energy, among other hi-tech and environmentally-friendly features. Tianjin Olympic Center Stadium, one of the best in the country, has become a symbol of Tianjin.
What began in 1914 as a smart place to store dinosaur bones and stuffed birds has gradually evolved into one of the most recognized natural history museums on the planet. Its research contributions to science are many. Fortunately, from a visitor's standpoint, this has translated into a staggering display show. Six separate halls, ranging from animal ecology and marine shellfish to insects and aquatic creatures dazzle with sophisticatedly modern exhibits. The dinosaur exhibit in the Paleontology Hall is especially noted.