5 things to do during your trip to Tianjin –mountain views and cultural trails

What was once the residence of the last emperor of the Qing Dynasty, Jingyuan Garden goes beyond the call of duty in showcasing the life, times and mannerisms of Emperor Puyi. Constructed in 1921, the Garden features a beautiful courtyard laden with flowerbeds, rocks and a spring. The main building itself is a classic example of clever workmanship which brings to light traces of Japanese and Spanish design elements. During the course of one's time here, one is bound to stumble upon a reception room, dining hall, bedroom and a servants' chamber which have been preserved in a way that evokes a sense of how the great emperor would have lived and ruled.

For the ultimate Chinese shopping spree, do make a note of the value and variety on show along Tianjin Ancient Culture Street which will surely thrill you to bits as you meander along. With a series of warm and welcoming shops and streets to venture to, this section of Tianjin is where one could delight in both the traditional as well as the contemporary. Representing outstanding value for money, the shopper in you will be presented with a rich array of best buys that include priceless jade carvings, detailed double-sided embroidery and stunning art ceramics that would look great on your mantelpiece back home.

Found snaking its way through the mountainous regions of Jizhou is the Huangyaguan Great Wall which is part of the Great Wall of China. Rated as one of the most exciting things to do in Tianjin, especially if based at Pan Pacific Tianjin which is located close by this particular section of the Wall was built more than 1,400 years ago during the Northern Qi Dynasty and was thereafter, subjected to renovation by the rulers of the Ming Dynasty. Covering 42km in total, the Huangyaguan Great Wall will allow visitors to inspect the 14 beacon towers and 52 watchtowers that complement the green hills and dense jungle perfectly.

Strolling along Dushan Road in the Heping District of Tianjin will soon bring you to the colossal yet serene setting of Xikai Church which is better known as St. Joseph Cathedral. The brainchild of a French missionary, Paul-Marie Dumond which saw the light of day in 1916, the Cathedral is a captivating and compelling work of art. Underpinned by wooden structures are three domes, each measuring 45 meters in height and covered in green copper plates which act as one of the church's main highlights. Further, perched atop each dome is a bronze cross which would easily meet your gaze as you enter its hallowed ground. Covering an area of 1,891 square meters and being able to accommodate up to 1,500 worshippers and well-wishers at a time, St. Joseph Cathedral conducts daily masses at 6.00 am and 7.30 am respectively for the benefit of the Catholic faithful.

To date, the Eye of Tianjin which is a 120-meter-tall Ferris wheel is considered the only Ferris wheel to have been built over a bridge. On a clear, sunny day or during the evening, travellers can look forward to delighting in sweeping views of Tianjin, Haihe River and of course, Yongle Bridge. Come dusk, this attraction is illuminated in bright lights and thus, would serve as a good way to sign off for the day.