In the morning your personal guide collects you from your centrally located hotel in Beijing; it's a quick drive to the railway station. Take a second-class seat aboard a bullet train for the short ride to Tianjin.
On arrival, transfer to a private vehicle or taxi to the Porcelain House, the first stop on your itinerary. This French-style colonial villa was built in the 1920s and its exterior is covered with shards of porcelain. Inside you'll find a museum of antiques including crystal, marble carvings, and semi-precious gems collected by the owner.
Next, head to Wudadao, aka the Five Great Avenues, home to more than 2,000 garden-style villas built during colonial occupations. Get a closer look at the architectural wonders with an optional horse-drawn carriage ride (own expense).
Get an introduction to Tianjin's cuisine over lunch provided at a local restaurant. Then take a spin on the Tianjin Eye, a modern-day landmark. From the highest point of the Ferris Wheel, you can see views stretching as far as 25 miles (40 km) into the distance.
Ancient Culture Street is your final stop. At Tianjin's top shopping destination for traditional Chinese goods, find dozens of shops selling items, from embroidery and calligraphy to tea sets and figurines.
From here, return to the Tianjin Railway Station and board a bullet train back to Beijing. Your guide then transfers you back to your hotel.
