The Tianjin Eye is a Ferris wheel built on the Yongle Bridge, which spans the city’s important Hai River. Take a ride on this famous Ferris wheel and enjoy fantastic views over the city and waterfront.
Completed in 2008, the Eye is touted as the only Ferris wheel in the world to be attached to a bridge. The Yongle Bridge stands 410 feet (125 metres) above the Hai River. The bridge’s upper platform is for vehicle traffic, while the lower platform is for pedestrians. Access the Ferris wheel by following this lower platform.
Step inside one of the wheel’s 48 passenger capsules, each of which can carry eight passengers at a time. The wheel takes around 30 minutes to complete a full rotation, providing riders with views spanning a radius of up to 25 miles (40 kilometres) when skies are clear. Go during the day and wave to tourists on the boats travelling down the river or people driving on the commuter bridge below. At night, admire the glowing lights of Tianjin as you glide through the air.
Standing 394 feet (120 metres) tall, the enormous Ferris wheel is supported by tri-pronged struts attached to the Yongle Bridge. The wheel looks sleek and industrial during the day, while at night it’s illuminated by a bright neon light display. Even if you don’t plan to ride the wheel, stop to see it after dusk, when it casts a picturesque reflection in the dark river waters below. Firework displays sometimes take place near the wheel in the evening.
Stroll around the pretty Hai riverfront and its lovely fountains, sculptures and gardens. The river has played an important role in residents’ daily life for centuries and the surrounding area continues to serve as a popular leisure spot. Bring a picnic and sit on the lush grass while enjoying views across the river.
The Tianjin Eye offers rides daily, with shortened hours on Mondays. There is a fee for the ride. Reach the Ferris wheel by taking the subway or the bus to the Jingang Qiao stop.
