Covering a catchment area of 317,800 sq kilometers (122,800 sq
miles), the Haihe River is regarded as the 'mother river' of
Tianjin. It is a great contributor to the improvement of Tianjin,
and ties closely to the lives of Tianjin people living there for
generations. People visiting the Haihe River today appreciate its
scenic beauty as well as its historical and cultural
atmosphere.
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The Haihe River is a crucial river in North China formed by the
convergence of five rivers in Tianjin. Historically, the Haihe
River was open to navigation 1,800 years ago, and gradually became
a junction for navigation in the Sui Dynasty (581-618). Through
centuries of development, it became a trading center gathering a
great influx of businessmen from around the nation. Today the
former shipping center is a place for relaxation.
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Regions along the river present beautiful views starting from
Sanchakou (a fork in the river) to Daguangming Bridge (one of the
bridges over the Haihe River). Countless attractions along the
banks make the river a popular holiday destination.
Haihe Park
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Of all the sights, the Haihe Park is the most attractive. Like a
jade belt attached to the river banks, Haihe Park is an ideal place
for pleasure and rest. Two groups of bronze sculptures are
particularly noticeable. Verdant trees, beautiful blossoms, green
lawns, long corridors under ivy-laced frames, fountains, and
sculptures decorate the park. Residents prefer to spend their
leisure time ambling there. Visitors can get a general knowledge of
Tianjin from the locals.
Haihe Cultural Square
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The Haihe Cultural Square is a key project in the comprehensive
renovation of resorts along the Haihe River. It gained this name
from the adjoining ancient culture street. Focusing on cultural
traditions and folk customs of Tianjin, the designer endowed the
square with a style of solemnity and simplicity. Meanwhile, a
modern element enters the design. The high-tech lighting, the
causeway pavement and the wooden floor make the square a shining
pearl of the Haihe River bank.
Haihe Fountain Amusement Park
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Completed in 1985, the playground occupies an area of 143,000 sq
meters (35.3 acres). There is a spectacular colorful fountain in
the central area. The park offers bumper cars, passenger-propelled
airplanes, and motorcycles to visitors. In addition, in this
playground are three luxurious sightseeing ships, and several speed
boats offering tours along the Haihe River. Visitors can also enjoy
a boat excursion at night. Light from both banks melts into the
water and drifts off, like a rainbow.
In addition, the Wanghailou Church located at the north bank of
the Haihe River is one of China's cultural relics. In the Qing
Dynasty (1644-1911), there was a Wanghailou Tower, a pleasure
location for emperors who made trips to their provinces; the
Laolongtou Rail Station is recorded as the first rail station in
China's ancient commercial ports after the Second Opium War
(1856-1860). Together with the establishment of other constructive
projects at that time, it is eyewitness to Tianjin's
development.
With its long history and beauty, the Haihe River attracts
visitors worldwide. It is a river endowed with sea strength and
river tenderness.
(Travelchinaguide.com July 25, 2007)
