One of the most prosperous business areas as well as a distribution centre for goods and materials in Northern China. Together with Beijing, Shanghai and Chongqing, it is one of the 4 municipalities directly under the Central Government of China, and the largest open seaport in north China. It ranks the 20th among the largest cities in the world.

Climate

Tianjin experiences very cold winters and hot, though less humid summers. Wind from the northern deserts makes northern China's winters extremely cold. The best time to visit China is the spring or fall when the weather is most temperate. Temperatures range from a low of -14°C (6.8°F) in winter to a high of 38°C (100.4°F) in summer.

Clothing

Dressing in Tianjin is casual but modest. Bring along some heavy clothing for the winter whereas light clothing is adequate during summer.

Currency

Renminbi (RMB) or Chinese Yuan (CNY) is the currency used in Beijing. These are followed by these denominations: one, two, five, ten, twenty, fifty and a hundred Yuan; one, two and five Jiao; and one, two and five Fen. At present the Bank of China accepts American Express, Dynasty, JCB, Visa, MasterCard, and Diners Club credit cards.

Customs

Visitors to China must fill out a customs form upon arrival. There is a limit to the import of certain items according to the quantity and duration of stay. When you enter the country you are asked to declare electrical goods and luxury items such as cameras, computer equipment etc. Keep this form until you exit to avoid paying duty on goods you brought into the country. There are no restrictions on the amount of foreign currency you can bring into the country. However, one must declare any cash exceeding US$5,000 or the equivalent. Chinese herbs, medicine and cultural relics, ammunition and drugs are not to be brought into Beijing.

Electricity

Electricity is supplied at 220 volts, 50 cycles.

Emergency Call Numbers

Health

Visitors to China are required to fill in a health declaration form at the Customs. Medical facilities are generally adequate in Tianjin. It is advisable to drink only boiled and bottled water.

Local Area Information

By the rim of Bohai Gulf, on the westcoast of the Pacific Ocean stands the city of Tianjin. Tianjin resides a population of 10.24 million and it used to be the Concessions of nine western countries between 1860 and 1940.

Mobile Phones

Network accepted in Tianjin is GSM.

Public Phones

In China, telephoning is relatively easy if you adhere to certain procedures. The best way to place a phone call is to go to the local post office. At most places it is possible to dial directly, in other places you have to ask the operator. There are now public phone booths where you can make calls with a phone card.

Shopping & Business Hours

Shops: Open from 9:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. everyday.

Banks & government offices: Open from 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. Mondays to Fridays.

Commercial offices: Open from 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. Mondays to Fridays.

Taxes

Taxes are not applicable.

Time Zone

GMT + 8.

Tipping

It is not a custom to tip and not necessary to do so.

Visa

Valid visas are required to enter Mainland China.