Tianjin Eye

The Tianjin Eye opened in 2008, a wheel of a hundred and twenty metres mounted directly on the Yongle Bridge over the Hai River, which is unique: no other observation wheel of this size is built onto a working road bridge. Forty-eight capsules carry passengers on a rotation of about half an hour, with views over the river, the old concession districts and the modern skyline, and on clear days a considerable distance across the city. It is at its best after dark, when the wheel and the riverside buildings are lit and the water reflects them. The riverbank promenades on both sides are used heavily by residents in the evening.

What you actually see

• The bridge-mounted wheel - the only large observation wheel built onto a bridge.
• The river views - the Hai River, concession districts and skyline from the top.
• The night lighting - the wheel and riverside illuminated after dark.
• The riverside promenades - the walks used by residents each evening.

When to go

April to October for comfortable weather; evening is the best time, when the city lights are on. Queues form at weekends and on holidays. Winter is very cold on the exposed riverbank.

Honest expectations

The ride takes thirty minutes and the capsules can be crowded. Air quality determines how far the view extends. Queues at peak times are long, and tickets are sold for timed slots.

Nearby

The Italian concession lies south along the river; the Porcelain House is southeast.