Things to Do at Five Great Avenues
Complete Guide to Five Great Avenues in Tianjin
About Five Great Avenues
This remarkable destination showcases five great avenues's unique character through walls that shift from gray granite to warm sandstone depending on the light. Visitors can explore the site with entrance fees typically ¥25-30 (-4.2 USD), and guided tours are available from certified local guides who share fascinating historical details not found in standard guidebooks. Experience the scent of incense drifting from nearby temples as you wander through the carefully preserved spaces that tell the story of Tianjin's cultural evolution. The location offers multiple vantage points for photography, each revealing different aspects of the architecture's relationship with its surroundings. For the best experience, respect local customs and dress modestly when visiting religious sites. Local vendors nearby offer authentic refreshments and small souvenirs crafted by artisans who have worked in this area for generations.
What to See & Do
Former Residence of Qing Prince Zaitao
A stunning example of Western architecture adapted for Chinese royalty, with beautiful gardens and period furnishings that give you a sense of how the elite lived during the transition period
Zhang Xueliang's Former Residence
The former home of the famous 'Young Marshal' who played a crucial role in modern Chinese history - the building itself is a gorgeous mix of Chinese and Western architectural elements
Minyuan Stadium Area
Worth a detour for the colonial-era buildings surrounding this historic stadium, plus you'll find some decent local restaurants tucked into the side streets
Racecourse Road Architecture
Some of the best-preserved European villas line this street - you can actually go inside a few that have been converted into museums or cultural centers
Tree-lined Walking Streets
The real joy is just wandering the leafy avenues themselves, where every block reveals different architectural styles and you'll likely discover your own favorite hidden corners
Practical Information
Opening Hours
The streets are accessible 24/7, though individual buildings and museums typically open 9:00-17:00. Some former residences might close on Mondays
Tickets & Pricing
Walking the streets is free, but individual historic buildings charge 10-30 RMB entrance fees. Some offer combined tickets for multiple sites
Best Time to Visit
Late afternoon for the best light on the buildings, or early morning when it's quieter. Spring and autumn are ideal weather-wise
Suggested Duration
Plan for 2-3 hours if you're just walking and photographing, or a full day if you want to visit multiple historic buildings and stop for meals
Getting There
Things to Do Nearby
A pleasant riverside promenade that's perfect for an evening stroll, with views across the Hai River and some decent dining options
Houses an impressive collection of Chinese art and historical artifacts, plus the building itself is a striking piece of modern architecture
A beautiful Gothic Revival church that's one of Tianjin's most recognizable landmarks - worth seeing even if you're not particularly interested in religious architecture
A reconstructed traditional street that's admittedly touristy but actually does a decent job showcasing traditional Chinese architecture and crafts