Located in the central commercial district and former French concession at the southern end of Binjiang Dao in Heping District, St. Joseph Cathedral—also known as Xikai Church—is the largest Roman Catholic church in Tianjin. Built between 1913 and 1916 using bricks imported directly from France, this protected historical site stands as northern China's largest Romanesque church, covering nearly 1,892 square meters and holding up to 1,500 people.
When you visit, you will encounter striking architecture defined by exterior walls checkered in red and yellow tiles, framed with white water masonry. Above, a giant copper-surfaced green dome topped with a bronze cross rises over the structure. Inside, French and Roman architectural styles blend seamlessly.
You can admire a long main hall lined by 14 large columns leading to a gallery-style tee, along with semi-circular and circular windows, an octagonal drum roof, a large pipe organ, and stained-glass side windows featuring inlay painting. Ornate murals depicting Biblical scenes cover the walls, creating an inspiring sacred setting. Today, the cathedral remains an active place of worship hosting both Chinese and English parish Masses, making it a historic and cultural highlight on your journey through Tianjin.
What to see at St. Joseph Cathedral
- Northern China's largest Romanesque church, constructed with bricks imported from France
- Distinctive exterior featuring checkered red and yellow tiles and a green copper dome topped with a bronze cross
- Spacious interior anchored by 14 large columns, a gallery-style tee, and an octagonal drum roof
- Stained-glass windows with inlay painting and walls lined with ornate Biblical murals
- Active place of worship hosting daily Chinese services and a weekly Sunday English Mass
Visiting tips
If you prefer to attend an English-speaking service during your visit, plan to arrive for the Sunday Mass held at 11:30am.
How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Sunday morning
How to get there & what’s nearby
St. Joseph Cathedral is easy to reach on Tianjin’s public transport. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Tianjin travel guide.
See the full Tianjin travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.