Sunrise and Sunsetin Tianjin, China

Tianjin lies on the west coast of the Bohai Sea, about 120 km southeast of Beijing. The flat coastal terrain and the Haihe River running through the city center create good conditions for open-horizon sunrises over open water and unobstructed sunset views to the west.

Best sunrise spots in Tianjin

1. Dongti Park

   Located in Binhai New Area on the Bohai Sea coast, Dongti Park is one of the few places in greater Tianjin where the sun rises directly from the water. The site is about 45 km east of the city center; Metro Line 9 to Tanggu, then a short taxi ride, is the most practical route.

2. Tianjin Radio and Television Tower

   The observation deck at 200 meters on this 415-meter tower gives a 360-degree view over the flat city and surrounding plain. Entry costs around 50 CNY; the tower opens at 9 AM, which limits its use to winter sunrises.

3. Tianjin Water Park

   This large urban park surrounds three lakes and offers flat, open eastern horizons across the water. Entry is free; the park sits next to the TV Tower and is reachable by Metro Line 3 to Youyi Road station.

Best sunset spots in Tianjin

1. Tianjin Radio and Television Tower

   In the evening the deck faces an unobstructed western horizon across the Hebei plain, with the Haihe River and city grid spread out below. The revolving restaurant on the same level is an option for those wanting to stay through dusk.

2. Tianjin Eye

   Built on the Yongle Bridge over the Haihe River, the Tianjin Eye is the only Ferris wheel in the world mounted on a bridge. One full rotation takes 30 to 40 minutes; tickets cost around 80 to 100 CNY. The westward-facing cabins catch direct sunset light.

3. Haihe River Waterfront

   The stretch of riverfront near Daguangming Bridge is lined with European-style facades facing west, which glow amber in the hour before dark. Access is free; Binjiang Dao metro station (Lines 1 and 2) is about a 10-minute walk away.

4. Jinwan Plaza

   This riverside plaza on the south bank of the Haihe River faces southwest and catches direct afternoon sun. It is within walking distance of Tianjin Railway Station and tends to be less crowded than the area around the Tianjin Eye.