Tianjin is the third largest city in China, with a population that's at once technologically savvy and respectful of the ancient traditions. And while it has its share of museums and historical attractions, one of the best places to experience Chinese history is at the Tianjin Antique Market (Guwan Shichang). Located along the Shenyang Jie, the market is crowded with hundreds of vendors selling everything from silk and ceramic to original artwork and home furnishings. It's an excellent place to get a bargain on a tea set or jade necklace, but if you're in the market for something a bit more unusual, such as Mao memorabilia, you're in luck. Guwan Shichang vendors have everything from Mao paintings and statues to fans, buttons, and even Mao lighters. As in many Chinese markets, negotiations are expected, so don't hesitate to counter the seller's first offer with a much lower number. After all, you've got a lot of souvenir shopping ahead of you. Starwood currently has one property in Tianjin, the Sheraton Tianjin Hotel, and three more are slated to open in the next two years: the Four Points by Sheraton Tianjin, Zhongshan, the Westin Tianjin, and the St. Regis Tianjin.
