Tianjin

Tianjin City is the largest manmade port on the estuary of the Haihe River at Bohai Bay. Along the banks of the river is the Fifth Avenue with splendid mansions of Renaissance, Gothic, Greek, Roman-style architecture interspersed with Qing-style buildings. The Haihe River Cruise is the easiest way to admire these superb row of colonial buildings that are unique to the city.

The Yongle Bridge Tientsin Eye (Tianjin Eye for short) is the most popular tourist attraction in the city. It is a gigantic Ferris wheel that has a diameter of 110 meters (equivalent to 35 floors) and spans the river. So it serves as a bridge as well as a fun-filled high-elevation ride. Tianjin Eye has 64 transparent gondolas that turn 360o. The 30-minute ride is considered an exhilarating experience for all age groups. At night, the wheel is lit up and the lights keep changing colors. Naturally, this attraction is a favorite of local families with kids, domestic tourists, as well as overseas visitors.

Another favorite of kids and families is the Tianjin Haichang Polar Ocean Theme Park. This tourist attraction is a 4A grade scenic spot spread over a massive area of 49,000 square meters. It provides a variety of entertainment for visitors like five animal science shows, three live performances, night activities, banquets, and facilities for staying overnight. It also has 80 display tanks with over 10,000 jellyfish belonging to 20 species. These tanks have a sound and light display that makes the experience interactive and more enjoyable.

The highlight of the ancient Dabei Monastery is a magnificent 7-meters-tall statue of the Sakyamuni Buddha. The temple also consists of countless other ancient statues, like that of Guanyin or Goddess of Mercy (a female form of the Buddha), Maitreya Buddha, and of 18 Arhats with expressions depicting 18 different emotions.

The city of Tianjin is a treasure as far as teahouses are concerned.