Family-Friendly Adventures in , Tianjin!

Huangyaguan Great Wall (Great Wall at Huangya Pass)

Why Visit?

Family Day Trip to Huangyaguan Great Wall

Morning: Arrival and Exploration

Begin your family adventure early in the morning to the Huangyaguan Great Wall, located about 120 kilometers east of Beijing. To get there, you can either rent a car or take a tourist bus from Beijing directly to the site. This lesser-known section of the Great Wall offers a more intimate experience, free from the crowd of more popular segments.

Interesting Fact: Huangyaguan, originally built during the Northern Qi dynasty and reconstructed in the Ming dynasty, stretches over 42 kilometers and is renowned for its unique blend of mountainous terrain and architectural styles.

Midday: Hike and Learn

Start your hike from the main entrance. The wall here includes watchtowers, beacon towers, and a strategic pass, which are excellent for teaching kids about ancient Chinese military strategies. The hike is moderately challenging, making it perfect for families with children. It should take about 2-3 hours to comfortably explore the main features.

Interesting Fact: The Great Wall at Huangyaguan is known for the annual Great Wall Marathon, which features one of the most picturesque yet challenging courses.

Afternoon: Taipingzhai to Huangyaguan Pass

After a short break and snacks, continue your adventure toward the restored section of Taipingzhai to Huangyaguan Pass. This area includes the Widow Tower, famously rebuilt by twelve widows after their husbands died in battles, showing the resilience and contribution of women in history.

Late Afternoon: Leisure and Departure

Wrap up your visit by relaxing in the nearby garden areas where children can play and adults can enjoy the scenic views. Head back to Beijing in the late afternoon, filled with memories of a unique historical adventure and plenty of family photos!

Tip: Wear comfortable walking shoes and carry sunblock and water, as the walk involves steep sections and little shade.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Dule Temple (Temple of Solitary Joy)

Why Visit?

Embark on a captivating family adventure to the Dule Temple, an architectural marvel and historical gem located in Jixian, Tianjin. Known as the Temple of Solitary Joy, this site offers a deep dive into China"s rich cultural heritage and is perfect for a family day out.

### Morning: Arrival and Exploration

Start your day early by taking a bus or car from Tianjin city center; it"s about a 2-hour drive. Upon arriving at Dule Temple, marvel at its towering entrance and get ready to explore. The temple is famed for housing one of the oldest wooden structures in China, the Guanyin Pavilion, which dates back to the Liao Dynasty. Inside, a massive, 16-meter-tall statue of the Goddess of Mercy (Guanyin) awaits, offering a magnificent sight. It"s an excellent opportunity for children to learn about Buddhist art and ancient Chinese architecture.

### Midday: Interactive Learning

After exploring the pavilion, participate in a family-friendly workshop often held in the temple"s courtyard. These activities can range from calligraphy lessons to traditional Chinese painting, providing a hands-on cultural experience.

### Lunch Break

Grab a lunch at a nearby local restaurant. Enjoy dishes like Jixian"s famous walnut cakes or savory zongzi (rice dumplings), providing a taste of local flavors that are sure to delight.

### Afternoon: Scenic Walks and Further Exploration

Post lunch, take a leisurely walk around the temple grounds. The complex is also known for its ancient trees, some of which are more than 1,000 years old, adding to the serene and mystical atmosphere. This is a great time for some family photos!

### Departure

Wrap up your visit by late afternoon, ensuring you have ample time to travel back to your hotel in Tianjin. Throughout the day, engage with the temple"s guides who can share fascinating stories and lesser-known facts about the temple’s history, enhancing your visit.

Dule Temple not only offers a peek into the spiritual and historical past of China but also provides a serene escape into nature and art that visitors of all ages can appreciate.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Tianjin Eye

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary: A Day at the Tianjin Eye and Surroundings

Morning: Arrival & Historical Stroll

Start your day early by taking a family stroll along the scenic Haihe River. To get there, the easiest way is by subway or taxi, aiming for the Jinwan Plaza which is directly connected to many historical sites. Upon arrival, enjoy the fusion of modern and colonial architecture that lines the riverbanks. Take a leisurely breakfast at one of the riverside cafés and enjoy some local delicacies like "jianbing" (Chinese crepes).

Mid-Morning: Tianjin Eye

Next, head to the Tianjin Eye, a spectacular ferris wheel and one of the few in the world that spans a bridge. Located at the Yongle Bridge, it’s about a 10-minute walk from Jinwan Plaza. This 120-meter tall wheel offers breathtaking views of the city and the river. Each air-conditioned capsule provides a comfortable vantage point for spotting key city landmarks. Fun fact: It takes about 30 minutes for a full rotation!

Tickets: Adults ¥70; Children ¥50; Under 1.2 meters free.

Hours: 9:30 AM to 9:30 PM.

Lunch Break: Local Flavors

Enjoy a hearty lunch at Nanshi Food Street, accessible via a short taxi ride from Tianjin eye. Explore traditional street food and Tianjin"s famous steamed buns - Goubuli Baozi.

Afternoon: Ancient Culture Street

Post lunch, walk off those calories at the nearby Ancient Culture Street (Guwenhua Jie), just a 15-minute walk from Nanshi. This area is vibrant with shops selling traditional crafts, antiques, and teas. It’s a great place for kids to learn about Chinese art and pick souvenirs.

Evening: River Cruise

Wrap up your day with a relaxing cruise on the Haihe River. Boats depart near the Tianjin Eye, perfect for reflecting on your day while watching the sunset over the skyline.

Return: Easily grab a taxi or subway from Tianjin Eye station back to your accommodation.

Enjoy your family adventure in Tianjin, blending cultural exploration with breathtaking views from the iconic Tianjin Eye!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.