Ancient Tianjin

Let’s take the train north into Tianjin, one of the 5 central cities in China.

Evidence of it’s long history can be found in the Drum Tower (鼓楼) which was originally built in the Ming Dynasty, but was destroyed during the cultural revolution. The Drum Tower was rebuilt in 2001 and now actually houses a bell and varying exhibitions.

Tianjin Ancient Culture Street (古文化街) replicates the folk architectural style of Qing dynasty. Ancient Cultural Street begins from Gongbei Avenue in the north, and ends at Gongnan Avenue in the south, being 750 yards (687 meters) long and 16 feet (5 meters) wide. Although essentially a business street, it attracts visitors who come to see its special architectural styles, admire its classic cultural features, buy various folk crafts, and sample the delicious local snacks.