In central Tianjin Municipality there is a 28-hectare area full of Italian-style buildings that have been standing intact for over a century. Dubbed the most authentically Italian area outside Italy, this little neighborhood has emerged as a national tourism block that attracts hordes of visitors each day to enjoy its Western ambiance.

Built in 1902, the area was originally the Italian Concession centered around Marco Polo Square, which was named after the Italian traveler who arrived in China and stayed here for 17 years during the time of the Yuan Dynasty (1279-1368). Subsequently, 123 Gothic, Romanesque and Baroque-style buildings were set up around the square.

Despite having undergone a chaotic wartime experience during the early 20th century, the area was not damaged and many famous political, military and cultural officials and celebrities once lived here, leaving a plethora of old houses that have been turned into museums for tourists to visit. 

In 2008, the municipal government launched a plan for the area, introducing a variety of restaurants, hotels and boutiques to build this previous expat settlement into a modern tourism block. One year later, the Italian-style area opened to the public so tourists can enjoy various Western-style food and beverages, the most representative Tianjin cuisine, traditional and modern stage and street performances, as well as museums and fashionable stores.

The night economy is another feature of this area. Light shows, street band performances, balcony opera performances and night vendors offer tourists more choices and enrich their travel experience.