Exploring the History Museum of Tianjin's Five Great Avenues

In the turbulent era of the Republic of China, Tianjin was a melting pot of cultures, and the Five Great Avenues, where the most exquisite small villas were concentrated, became a focal point. Stretching from Chengdu Road in the south to Machang Road in the north, and from Xikang Road in the east to the intersection of Machang Road and Nanjing Road in the west, this area was once home to imperial relatives, retired officials, and many prominent figures seeking refuge.

While touring the Five Great Avenues showcases the external beauty of the exquisite small villas, which represent various architectural styles from ancient Greece to the European Renaissance, delving deeper into the history of the Republican era and experiencing the essence of the elite class can be achieved at the Five Great Avenues History Museum, located in Minyuan Square.

The museum, situated on the east side of Minyuan Square, houses over 5,000 classic artifacts, offering a rich collection that recreates the appearance of streets and lanes during the Republican era, as well as the living scenes inside the small villas.

During the last century, the Five Great Avenues were inhabited by some of the most elite figures in the country. Sofas from the former residence of Gu Weijun, chairs from the Yuan family, and even seemingly simple items like a desk lamp may hold significant historical value.

The recreated living scenes vividly portray the refined lifestyle of the elite class during the Republican era, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in history. For those with a penchant for the Republican era, this museum is a must-visit destination in Tianjin.

Landmarks such as Minyuan Stadium, Ping'an Cinema, Yaohua Middle School, and Lishunde Hotel have undergone renovations over the years, but their original appearance can still be revisited at the Five Great Avenues History Museum.

Stopping in front of Yueyong Grocery Store, visitors can admire the preserved antique items, reminiscent of the store's upscale past. Everything sold here was imported and priced beyond the reach of ordinary people, catering to foreigners and the elite class.

Precious artifacts are neatly displayed in glass cabinets, showcasing the luxurious items found inside the seemingly grand Western-style buildings.

The celebrity garden within the museum was once the residence of Mr. Wang Guangying, who served as the Deputy Mayor of Tianjin before founding the well-known Guangda Group.

The restored living spaces, including the living room, dining room, and bedroom, feature a blend of Chinese and Western decorations, exuding a strong sense of the era.

Today, the former mansions on the Five Great Avenues have become popular attractions. Visitors wander through the streets and alleys, explore the museum, and relive the tumultuous modern history embedded within each building and artifact.

Reference: Tianjin Wudadao: A Cultural and Historical Tourism Area

Q&A

Q1: Where is the Five Great Avenues History Museum located?

A1: The museum is located on the east side of Minyuan Square.

Q2: What can visitors expect to see at the museum?

A2: Visitors can expect to see over 5,000 classic artifacts, including recreated living scenes from the Republican era and various items that reflect the refined lifestyle of the elite class during that period.