Abstract: Before modern times, Tianjin had the advantage of fine harbor and relatively developed inland shipping, which was closely related with the rise and decline of traditional communications and carrying trade. With the opening of coastal trading ports and the rise of modern railway transportation network in the early 20th Century, Tianjin witnessed new changes in the space structure, the scope and characteristics of the city, and the modernization of the city distinctly accelerated. Taking the relationship between the railway and urban modernization of Tianjin from 1905 to 1937 as an example and by investigating the connection between the railway and the development of industry and commerce, population growth and urban development, this article attempts to expound the influence of the railway on the modernization of Tianjin, a coastal port city.

Keywords: railway hinge; Tianjin; urban modernization;