Business Tianjin Magazine - Business English Magazine in China

Wu Da Dao – The Five Roads

Written by Administrator Wednesday, 24 June 2009 14:06

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五大道

An intense traditional European borough in Tianjin

Since the Mongols invaded Beijing in the 13^th century, Tianjin has been fundamental due its proximity to the capital and the port.

The city developed into a strategic point and soon attracted European settlers, mainly the British, the Dutch and the French. In the early 20^th century (Qing Dynasty), when the Chinese dynastic cycle began to fall, the imperial government was forced to cede territories to several European powers. It was these less-fortunate times in Chinese history that gave Tianjin its present look – a mix of modernity, traditional Europe and traditional China.

Remants of the western presence are still visible all around the city, especially in Hexi District. The area has a unique atmosphere, one that might give wanderers saudade. Saudade is the Portuguese word for the feeling rooted in almost every immigrant’s heart, a feeling of more than mere homesickness. For western expatriates living in the city, Wu Da Dao is walk back home, a refuge inside the Chinese immensity.

The Five Roads are located in the center of the former British Concession in Tianjin, known as “One of the Ten Landscapes of Tianjin”. The area has been the residence of outstanding figures in Chinese history, politics and culture, thus an important center for European humanities in China.

Architecture here varies between the British and French styles. The numerous buildings and the bungalow houses transmit reminiscences of European country houses. Every garden and balcony is a charm, lacking only a white picket fence and vibrant geraniums beneath the windows to be a perfect replica.

The distinctive architecture enjoyed in Wu Da Dao also created a very interesting phenomenon. The entirely preserved houses that populate the area are gradually turning it into an upmarket zone. Buildings like the popular InternationalBuilding are just around the corner, not far from the French-styledTianjinForeignStudiesUniversity. Distinguishing the area yet further are a few cozy foreign restaurants favored by the natural landscape, which is shaped with luxurious trees and impressive gardens, and shaded well in summer.

This entire ambience offers diversity for residents and a warm welcome to all visitors.

Address

Wu Da Dao

Machang Dao, Munan Dao, Dali Dao, Chongqing Dao, Hexi District

五大道

河西区成都道，重庆道，大理道，睦南道，马场道

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