Author: Jazmin Carrillo Morales
We had an early wake-up call on Thursday, May 15. After breakfast at the hotel and a two-hour drive, we arrived at the Tianjin Harbor, one of the busiest ports in the world. Our tour guide met us there, he was very knowledgeable and passionate about the port’s history, current operations, and future development plans. He showed us a detailed map of the port city, and it honestly blew my mind how much infrastructure exists just to support the port’s workers and the surrounding community. It’s basically a city within the port.
We also got to step inside one of their wine distribution centers, where they handle orders and prepare shipments. The tour was short and to the point, but packed with insight, especially for anyone interested in logistics or global trade. It gave us a better understanding of how products move around the world and how efficient systems keep everything running behind the scenes.
After the tour, we headed to lunch, and it did not disappoint. The spread was incredible: fresh salad, noodles, tender chicken, fluffy pork buns, soup, tofu, and more. Everything was flavorful and comforting.
Next up was a visit to the Ancient Cultural Street in Tianjin, one of my favorite stops of the entire day. The street was stunning, packed with colorful traditional buildings that looked straight out of a movie, lanterns hanging overhead, and vendors lined up selling everything from handmade jewelry to street food. We had about an hour and a half to explore on our own, and I could’ve stayed even longer.
Walking through the street felt like stepping back in time, but in the best way. I had so much fun hopping between shops, trying to communicate with local vendors using a mix of hand gestures, basic Chinese, and smiles. I ended up buying earrings, a bookmark, and some Chinese chocolate to bring home for friends and family. A few of us also bought beautiful traditional hair clips, and the woman who sold them even styled our hair for us right there. It was such a sweet and unexpected moment.
There was something really special about that street: the architecture, the energy, the sense of tradition. Every corner felt meaningful, like I was surrounded by living history. It felt amazing to not just observe, but actually engage in Chinese culture.
After soaking in the vibrant energy of Ancient Cultural Street, we were guided to a nearby shop for a virtual tour of Tianjin. Using an interactive display, they walked us through how the city’s waterways connect across borders—showing how the rivers and sea flow directly into the port area. One highlight was learning about Emperor Yang of the Sui Dynasty and his excavation of the Yongji Canal, a major engineering feat that played a key role in shaping China’s transportation and trade routes.
After that, we went to dinner, which once again was a feast. The dishes just kept coming: roast duck, rice, soups, veggies, pork, chicken. Every bite was delicious. You could tell everyone was satisfied and excited for what was coming next.
And that next part was magical, a nighttime boat cruise through the city of Tianjin. As we boarded, the city lights began to glow, casting reflections on the water. For the next hour, we glided through the river, surrounded by illuminated skyscrapers, lit-up bridges, and crowds of people out enjoying the evening. The whole city felt alive. It was peaceful, beautiful, and a little surreal. Just sitting there on the boat, taking it all in with my friends, felt like something out of a dream.
We ended the night by heading back to the hotel, tired, full, and grateful. It was a day filled with new sights, cultural connections, and moments I’ll remember for a long time.
Day 3 in Tianjin was one for the books. From exploring one of the busiest ports in the world to walking the vibrant streets of Tianjin’s ancient market, every moment was layered with history, beauty, and connection.
More adventures ahead… stay tuned.
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