Tourism GuideHaihe River Historical Area
The Haihe River Historical Area is the birthplace of Tianjin and the heart of the citys cultural heritage where Chinese and Western architectural styles blend harmoniously along the banks of Tianjins mother river
Key Information
Historical Period
Late 19th to early 20th century
Architectural Styles
European Colonial Traditional Chinese Modern
River Length
72 kilometers within Tianjin
Main Bridges
Jiefang Bridge Jintang Bridge Yongle Bridge
UNESCO Status
Part of Tianjin Historic Areas under consideration
Best Time to Visit
Spring and Autumn especially during festivals
Night View
Illuminated bridges and buildings create spectacular views
Cultural Significance
Symbol of Tianjins opening to foreign trade and cultural exchange
The Haihe River Historical Area stretches along both banks of the Haihe River Tianjins mother river and represents the citys most significant historical and cultural district This area showcases Tianjins unique identity as a treaty port where Chinese and Western cultures converged during the late 19th and early 20th centuries The architectural landscape features a remarkable blend of European colonial buildings traditional Chinese courtyard houses and modern structures creating a visual timeline of Tianjins development from a small fishing village to an international trading port The area includes several historical districts such as the Italian Style Town the Five Great Avenues with their European villas and the Ancient Culture Street preserving traditional Chinese architecture The Haihe River itself serves as the central artery around which Tianjin grew with its nine tributaries symbolizing the citys nickname as the City of Nine Rivers
Things to Do
- Take a Haihe River cruise to admire the citys skyline and illuminated bridges at night
- Explore the Italian Style Town with its Mediterranean architecture and cobblestone streets
- Visit the Ancient Culture Street to experience traditional Chinese crafts and snacks
- Walk along the Five Great Avenues to see Europeanstyle villas and former concessions
- Enjoy the musical fountain show at the Haihe River Cultural Square
- Photograph the iconic Tianjin Eye Ferris wheel across the river
- Visit the Porcelain House a unique building decorated with antique porcelain pieces
- Explore the Tianjin Financial Street with its blend of historical and modern architecture
- Try local Tianjin snacks like Goubuli steamed buns and Erduoyan fried cakes
- Attend cultural performances at the Haihe Theater during festivals
