Excursion Historical tianjin tour at Tianjin

Cruise line: Silversea
Difficulty:

Experience the spectacular beauty, architecture and history of Tianjin during a picturesque, full-day sightseeing excursion to this bustling city.

Tianjin City, Jingyuan Garden

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 90-minute drive to Tianjin City. Your first stop is at the Jingyuan Garden, or 'Garden of Serenity', the former residence of Puvi, last emperor of the Qing Dynasty. Built in 1921, this lovely garden home has two, two-story Western-style villas as its main buildings. In 2007, a year-long restoration project transformed the residence into a museum about the emperor's life.

Lunch and Yangliuqing New Year Painting Museum

Next, proceed to a local restaurant to experience a Chinese lunch, before making your way to Yangliuqing New Year Painting Museum. The famous, 17th-century knives, wood plates and woodcarving paintings displayed here reflected the local citizenry's hopes for a better life amidst a turbulent society. The early paintings gradually formed their own characters with an auspicious festive tone, and today, locals decorate their homes with Yangliuqing New Year paintings ahead of the Chinese Lunar New Year. During your visit, marvel at the beautiful artwork and observe a local artisan make the painting using wood plates.

Five Avenue Area and Former Mansion of Prince Qing

Next, re-board your coach for a drive through the Five Avenue Area. A Tianjin icon and showcase of modern Chinese history, this historical area features more than 2,000 garden buildings constructed in various architectural styles during the 1920s and 1930s. Your final stop is at the Former Mansion of Prince Qing. Renowned for its exquisite blend of Chinese and Western architectural styles, the main building of the mansion still maintains its original appearance. Following your guided tour, relax with a Chinese afternoon tea served with snacks at the mansion's bistro. Time permitting, visit the Prince Qing Mansion History Exhibition, then re-board your coach and commence the approximately 1.5-hour drive back to the pier.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Tianjin City, Jingyuan Garden, Ancient Culture Street, Chinese Lunch, Yangliuqing New Year Painting Museum, Five Avenue Area, Former Mansion of Prince Qing

Note

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking for approximately one mile (1.6 kilometres), with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach, 20 steps at the Jingyuan Garden and steps at the sights visited. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Lightweight, comfortable clothing, flat, closed-toe walking shoes and sun protection are recommended.