Tianjin and Wuhan

​Tianjin and Wuhan
Mr. Davis

​Today's Agenda

• Explain the location and history of Tianjin and Wuhan.

• Locate the top attractions in Tianjin and Wuhan.

• Determine if Tianjin and Wuhan are places that you would want to visit one day.

Reminder: Make sure that you are continuing to do your Rosetta Stone practices 4 days per week for 15-20 minutes each day!

Open Ended

What do you know about Tianjin and Wuhan? (Think about climate, geography, attractions, history, location, etc)

Tianjin

• Tianjin is a major international port city on the shore of the Bohai Sea.

• The Hai River runs through the center of the city.

• It is considered one of the nine national central cities, meaning it is important regionally, nationally and internationally.

• It has a population of almost 14 million people, which ranks 11th in the world for most populated cities.

Tianjin

• Tianjin's area was originally part of ancient coastal marshlands and small settlements along the Hai River.

• It became strategically important during the Sui and Tang Dynasties as part of the Grand Canal system, which links northern and southern China.

• The city itself was formally established in 1404 during the Ming Dynasty.

• The name Tianjin means "Heavenly Fjord," referring to an important river crossing used by the emperor.

Tianjin

• The city developed into a military garrison and transport hub protecting Beijing.

• It also became a major treaty port after the Second Opium War in the 1850s.

• Western powers established foreign concessions, each governing its own district.

• The city transformed into a cosmopolitan center with European style architecture, banks, railways, and industry.

• This era shaped Tianjin into one of China's earliest modern industrial cities.

Tianjin

• Foreign concessions would end gradually after WWII.

• After 1949, Tianjin became a major industrial base for the People's Republic of China.

• Since the late 20th century, Tianjin has undergone rapid modernization, including the development of the Binhai New Area, a key economic zone.

• Today, it is a major global port city and in important part of the Beijing economic region.

Multiple Choice

Which of the following is NOT TRUE about Tianjin?

• It is one of the most populated cities in the world.

• It is located along the Hai River.

• It is a major international port city.

• It is in the Southwestern part of the country.

​Let's take a look at some of the top attractions located in Tianjin!

Tianjin Eye

The Tianjin Eye is a giant Ferris wheel built directly over the Hai River, making it one of the only wheels in the world constructed on a bridge. Standing about 120 meters tall, it offers panoramic views of the entire city skyline. It is especially popular at night when the wheel lights up in colorful patterns. The attraction symbolizes Tianjin's modern development and attracts both tourists and locals.

Ancient Culture Street

This is a traditional marketplace designed to reflect Qing Dynasty architecture and culture. It is famous for selling folk art, handicrafts, calligraphy, and local snacks. Visitors can explore temples, including the Temple of the Queen of Heaven dedicated to the sea goddess Mazu. The street offers an immersive experience into Tianjin's cultural heritage and traditions.

Italian Town

This was once an Italian concession and has been restored to highlight Mediterranean-style architecture. The area includes plazas, cafes, and historic residences of notable figures. It is known for its relaxed atmosphere and vibrant nightlife. Visitors can enjoy a European feel while still being in northern China.

Porcelain House

This is a unique building decorated with millions of pieces of broken porcelain, antiques, and crystals. It was once a French-style mansion but has been transformed into a work of art. The structure blends traditional Chinese ceramics with Western architectural design. It stands out as one of Tianjin's most unusual and visually striking attractions.

Open Ended

What are your thoughts on Tianjin? Would you want to visit? What would you want to do or see there?

Wuhan

• Wuhan is the capital of Hubei, China and has a population just under 14 million people.

• It is the 7th most populous city in China.

• The name "Wuhan" came from the city's historical origin from the conglomeration of Wuchang, Hankou, and Hanyang, which are collectively known as the "Three Towns of Wuhan."

• It lies in the eastern Jianghan Plain, at the confluence of the Yangtze River and its large tributary, the Han River.

Wuhan

• Wuhan's history goes back 3500 years, with early settlements along the Yangtze and Han Rivers.

• During the Han Dynasty, the region became a major transportation hub due to its central river location.

• By later dynasties, Hankou grew into one of China's "Four Great Commercial Towns," known for trade and industry.

• Wuhan's location made it a vital link connecting northern and southern China.

Wuhan

• In the 19th century, Hankou became a treaty port, bringing foreign influence and modernization.

• The Wuchang Uprising started in 1911, leading to the fall of the Qing Dynasty and the birth of modern China.

• During the Second Sino-Japanese War, Wuhan briefly served as China's capital before being occupied.

• After 1949, the three cities merged to become Wuhan.

• Today, Wuhan is a key hub for industry, education, and technology, often called the "Chicago of China" for its central role in transportation and commerce.

Multiple Choice

Which of the following is NOT TRUE about Wuhan?

• Wuhan originally was 3 cities, but would merge to become one giant city.

• Wuhan served as China's capital at one point in time.

• Due to its location on the river, Wuhan is a huge transportation hub.

• It is known as the Pittsburgh of China.

​Let's take a look at some of the top attractions located in Wuhan!

Yellow Crane Tower

This is one of the most famous landmarks in China, with a history dating back over 1700 years. It has been destroyed and rebuilt several times, with the current structure completed in 1985. The tower offers panoramic views of the Yangtze River and Wuhan skyline. It is also deeply connected to Chinese poetry and cultural heritage.

Wuhan Yangtze River Bridge

This was the first bridge built across the Yangtze River, completed in 1957. It connects the former cities of Wuchang and Hankou, symbolizing the unification of Wuhan. The bridge carries both road and rail traffic, playing a key role in transportation. It is also a popular spot for sightseeing and photography.

Guiyuan Buddhist Temple

This is one of Wuhan's most important and well-preserved Buddhist temples. Built in the Qing Dynasty, it is known for its peaceful environment and detailed statues of arhats (Buddhist disciples). The temple attracts worshippers and tourists alike. It offers insight into Chinese religious traditions and spiritual life.

East Lake

This is the largest urban lake in China, even bigger than Hangzhou's West Lake. It features scenic walking paths, gardens, bridges, and cycling routes spread across a vast natural area. The lake is especially popular during cherry blossom season, attracting visitors from around the world. It offers a peaceful escape from the busy city environment.

Open Ended

What are your thoughts on Wuhan? Is it a place that you would want to visit? What would you want to see or do there?

​That is it for today! I will see you next time when we look at Dongguan and Chongqing!