A Comprehensive Guide for Sisters Planning to Visit Tianjin in June-July

Tianjin is a coastal city that blends Chinese and Western cultures, history with modernity, featuring European architecture from its concession era, traditional folk culture, and renowned for its cuisine and cross-talk comedy. Here’s a detailed travel guide to help you explore Tianjin efficiently: ✅ Must-Visit Classic Attractions 1️⃣. Five Great Avenues (Architectural Expo) - Highlights: Historic buildings showcasing British, French, Italian, and German styles, perfect for cycling or walking. - Recommendations: Minyuan Square (a photo hotspot), Qing Prince’s Mansion, Xiannong Courtyard. - Tips: Opt for a paid horse-drawn carriage tour with commentary or rent a shared bike for free exploration. 2️⃣. Ancient Culture Street - Experiences: Clay Figurine Zhang, Yangliuqing New Year Paintings, cross-talk teahouses (Mingliu Teahouse is the most famous). - Food: Ear-Hole Fried Cake, Jianbing (try the iconic "Nanlou Jianbing"). 4️⃣. Tianjin Eye Ferris Wheel - Best Time: Ride at dusk for panoramic views of the Haihe River sunset and nightscape. ✅ Tianjin Food Map 1️⃣. Breakfast - Jianbing: Try "Nanlou Jianbing" (open late) or local street stalls. - Gaba Cai (Crispy Pancake Soup): Visit the time-honored "Dafulai." - Miancha: Millet porridge topped with sesame paste, savory and fragrant. 2️⃣. Meals & Snacks - Goubuli Buns: Locals prefer "Zhangji Buns" or "Ergu Buns." - Tianjin Cuisine: Must-tries include Eight-Treasure Tofu, Lao Bao San, and Zèngbèng Carp at "Hongqi Restaurant" or "Guiyuan Restaurant." - Halal Dishes: Hongqishun Restaurant (their braised ox tongue and tail are exceptional). - Snacks: Steamed Pear Cake, Mahua (choose "Guifaxiang"), and Lüdagun (glutinous rice rolls). 3️⃣. Night Markets & Food Streets - Northwest Corner: A hub for halal snacks, especially breakfast. - Xihu Road: A local favorite with long queues; try "Duchengqi Snack Shop." ✅ Accommodation Tips - Binjiangdao/Heping Road: Downtown area with shopping and dining; opt for star hotels or B&Bs. - Haihe Riverside: Stunning night views, ideal for luxury stays (e.g., The Ritz-Carlton). - Near Tianjin Station: A transport hub for easy access to Beijing-Tianjin routes. ✅ Transportation Guide - Metro: Covers major attractions; download the "Tianjin Metro APP" for QR code rides. - Bus/Shared Bikes: Great for short trips, especially along the scenic Haihe River. - Beijing-Tianjin Travel: High-speed trains take 30 mins (Beijing South → Tianjin Station), with frequent departures. ✅ Sample Itineraries - One-Day Tour: Five Great Avenues → Xikai Church → Porcelain House → Ancient Culture Street (cross-talk show) → Tianjin Eye. - Two-Day Tour: - Day 1: Italian Style Area → Haihe River Cruise → Italian Style Street at night. - Day 2: Binhai Library or Yangliuqing Ancient Town + food exploration. Tianjin’s laid-back lifestyle shines in its vibrant street life. Slow down, sip tea, enjoy cross-talk, and soak in the city’s humor and charm. With extra time, visit Binhai New Area for the aircraft carrier or Polar Ocean Park!