Tianjin - A fascinating city worthy of many return visits

Such unique historic districts encourage visitors and photographers to Tianjin. I have walked the area many times thinking of its legacy while trying to imagine the scene over one hundred years ago. However, this time I was invited to join a walk organized through the city's AmCham (American Chamber of Commerce). For me a journey of discovery, learning and seeing much more about what I had thought was familiar. It was interesting sensing the passion among the group - some were Tianjin locals while others were westerners living and working in the city, but all shared a mutual feeling for Tianjin.

Time, patience and studying maps can help get the best out of historic areas. This time I was introduced to what had been historically been international social clubs, foreign trade organizations, administrative offices for different concessions, French-inspired Zizhuilin Catholic church, former residences and much more. Today the area, which has had a program of landscaping and renovation, is a pleasure to walk or cycle through or simply to relax at tranquil Jiefang Park.

Opposite that park stands the Astor Hotel, dating from 1863. Within its wood paneled corridors is a fascinating museum providing detailed insights into the city's intriguing and complex history. Beyond lay Wudadao. Known for its western-inspired domestic architecture it was at the heart of the former British Concession. Indeed walking its tree-lined avenues the feeling was maybe of suburban England? Some homes have been transformed into quite beautiful restaurants offering garden dining. We had lunch in one close to what had been the home to a Tianjin-born Scot, Eric Liddell. A gold medal 400-meter winner at the Paris 1924 Olympics, he was nicknamed the "Flying Scotsman". Liddell returned to China, to Tianjin, in 1925. He helped design, in 1926, the original Minyuan Stadium at Wudadao - apparently modeled on London's Stamford Bridge, his favorite athletic venue. Someone who indeed gave his life to China, Liddell (January 16, 1902 - February 21, 1945) retains a high degree of respect within the city.