The restored former Italian concession (1902-1945), the only Italian concession China ever granted and one of only two Italian concessions outside Italy historically. Yellow stucco buildings, arched colonnades and Marco Polo Square have been renovated into a pedestrian district of restaurants, wine bars and boutique shops, particularly lively after dark when the buildings are lit.
Italy received its Tianjin concession in 1902 as compensation following the Boxer Rebellion, and the roughly 300-building quarter that grew up along the Hai River became a residential and diplomatic enclave until Italy's World War II defeat ended the concession system in China in 1945. Many buildings fell into disrepair through the mid-20th century before the Tianjin municipal government undertook a major restoration beginning in 2005, repainting facades in period-accurate yellow and terracotta tones and converting former residences into restaurants, cafes and small hotels while preserving the original street grid and Marco Polo Square at its center.
| Admission | Free to enter and walk around |
|---|---|
| Hours | Open access, 24 hours; most restaurants and bars 11:00am - 11:00pm or later |
| Typical visit | 1.5-3 hours |
| Address | Italian Style Town, Chang'an Road area, Hebei District, Tianjin |
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Average daytime temperature in °C. Figures are for China.
Location
Italian Style Town, Chang'an Road area, Hebei District, Tianjin
Highlights
- Only former Italian concession in China
- Marco Polo Square
- Illuminated evening architecture
- Dense restaurant and bar district
Tips for visiting
- Visit after 6:30pm when building facades are illuminated - this is when the district feels most atmospheric.
- Marco Polo Square is the main photo spot, with the former Italian consulate building nearby.
- Combine with dinner, since the district has one of Tianjin's densest concentrations of restaurants and bars.
When to visit
Evening, after building illumination begins around dusk
Accessibility
Paved pedestrian streets, generally flat and wheelchair-friendly.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a visit to Italian Style Town take?
Most visitors spend 1.5 to 3 hours walking the district, including time for a meal or drinks; a quick photo stop at Marco Polo Square alone takes 20-30 minutes.
Is it worth visiting with kids?
Yes, the pedestrian streets are stroller-friendly and open plazas give children room to move, though the main draw is architecture and dining rather than child-specific attractions.
Is photography allowed?
Yes, photography is unrestricted throughout the public streets and squares, and the illuminated evening facades are the most popular subject.
Is there an entrance fee?
No, the district is a free, open pedestrian area; visitors only pay for what they eat, drink or buy inside individual shops and restaurants.