Tianjin is a key port city in north-eastern China and one its four municipalities. Despite its concrete and steel dominated modern skyline, the city is steeped in history. The very name Tianjin is of historic origin and means ‘the place where the emperor crossed the river’. The metropolis is a fast progressing commercial hub but lush greenery and scenic waterways can be found dotted across the heart of the city. There is much to be explored; start by choosing from one of the many serviced apartments Tianjin has to offer. One of city’s biggest treasures is Shuishang Water Park. It also goes by the name of Shuishang Leyuan Amusement Park though it cannot be classified as typical amusement park or a water park.
Shuishang Water Park is an urban park built for recreational purposes and it has become one of Tianjin’s main tourist attractions. It is moments away from the Somerset International Building Tianjin, one of the city’s premium accommodation options. The Park is made up of five islands: Chun Islet, Xia Islet, Qiu Islet, Dong Islet and Ying Islet and three lakes: East Lake, West Lake and South Lake. The beautifully landscaped gardens feature pagodas, pavilions and bridges that display both Chinese and international styles of architecture. Transport between the islands is by row boat or high speed water shuttle. Seasonal flower shows, like tulips in spring and chrysanthemums in autumn, are popular among horticulturists.
There is an ‘amusement’ section for younger visitors which includes rides and entertainment, including a ferris wheel. Many years ago the park was known as Green Dragon Pond and even then celebrated for its natural ecosystemsand bounty of plant life. Shuishang Water Park opened its doors to the public in 1951 and in 2009 it was transformed into the park you see today.
Shehera Fioni is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Catalina Forbes. Her content is based on many thrilling escapades offered to travellers across the world.
