Tiananmen Square - Largest Public Square in the World

Tiananmen Tower was first built in 1417 and served as the front gate to the Forbidden City. During the Ming and Qing Dynasties, it was the site where officials and eunuchs issued the emperor’s proclamations. It was only opened on major occasions, such as emperors’ weddings, enthronements, and ceremonies to worship heaven or earth.

Standing 33.7 meters high, Tiananmen Tower features 60 giant columns and a platform built in the style of a sumeru throne. The tower is quite glorious, with dazzling golden brick paving on the ground, two elegantly designed doors carved with intricate decorative patterns, and arches and beams adorned with traditional Chinese motifs that carry auspicious meanings. The front side of Tiananmen Tower has five arched doors, with the central one historically reserved for the emperor. Above this door hangs a large portrait of Chairman Mao, flanked by the phrases “Long live the People’s Republic of China” and “Long live the Unity of People of the Whole World.” The Jinshui River flows by in front of Tiananmen Square, with bridges built across it for people of different statuses.

If you are interested in Chinese history, don't miss the National Museum of China. As a blend of collecting, displaying, research, archaeological studies, public education, and cultural communication, the National Museum of China is a comprehensive institution emphasizing Chinese art and history. It boasts a large scale and rich collections, making it one of the most popular museums in the world. Its most charming collection is the Ancient China Exhibition, which features 2,026 cultural relics, including 521 first-level artifacts. Organized chronologically by dynastic changes and focusing on these relics, the exhibition showcases the vast expanse of Chinese civilization. The exhibition is divided into eight sections based on different periods.

Standing 37.94 meters tall, the Monument to the People’s Heroes is the largest monument in China’s history and the first significant structure built after the founding of New China.

Constructed from 17,000 pieces of granite and white marble, the monument features platforms, sumeru thrones, and a central body and head. The lower platform is shaped like a crabapple flower, while the upper section is quadrate and enclosed by white marble columns. The large sumeru throne above is adorned with exquisite reliefs that depict crucial events in China’s centuries-old history. The front of the monument faces Tiananmen Tower and is inscribed with the words "Immortal People's Heroes" by Mao Zedong (毛泽东). The back consists of seven stones inscribed with "Glory forever," written by Chairman Mao and inscribed by Premier Zhou Enlai (周恩来). This solemn and grand monument honors the tremendous contributions of revolutionary martyrs and reflects the deep respect of the people for them.

The Monument to the People’s Heroes was designed by Liang Sicheng (梁思成) and other prominent architects, who gathered insights from influential figures in construction, research, and the arts. It embodies the culture and wisdom of the people. In addition to paying tribute to martyrs, the monument showcases traditional Chinese national art and represents the essence of Chinese architectural artistry.

Stepping down from the white marble base at the rear of the Hall of Preserving Harmony, a wide courtyard separates the outer court from the inner court. Situated on the west side of Tiananmen Square, the Great Hall of the People covers 170,000 square meters. This building embodies traditional Chinese architectural style while incorporating elements of Western architecture. With 12 marble gateposts standing 25 meters high at the front, a peach-pink marble floor, and translucent quartz lamps hanging from the ceiling, the Great Hall of the People presents an atmosphere of refinement and elegance. In fact, the Great Hall of the People is primarily used for ceremonial activities, national meetings, and other special events, such as large anniversary celebrations and memorial services for former leaders.

Passing through Tiananmen Tower, the magnificent imperial palace that comes into view is the enchanting Forbidden City. Once off-limits, it is now open to all. Visiting this vast complex, built during the Ming and Qing Dynasties, promises an enjoyable experience. Spanning over 9,000 rooms, it once housed 24 emperors. As you wander through its various doorways, you'll admire the stunningly preserved buildings adorned with yellow glazed tile roofs, elegant white marble bases, and vibrant, intricate paintings that depict scenes from Chinese mythology and historical events. The layout of the palace is meticulously designed, with each courtyard and hall reflecting the principles of traditional Chinese architecture and feng shui.

To explore the best highlights of Beijing, including Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City, Great Wall, Temple of Heaven, Summer Palace, Hutongs, you only need 2 or 3 full days, which is available for to 72 Hours Visa-free for Transit in Beijing. If you have more days, you can go for an in-depth Great Wall hiking or photography, and explore more hidden attractions in the city.

>> 4 Days Classic Beijing Tour Package

As the most popular transportation hub in China, you can easily travel from Beijing to any other hot travel destinations in China by flight or train, such as Xian, Shanghai, Yangtze River, Guilin, Chengdu, Tibet and other popular destinations in China by flight or train.. China Discovery has designed many great China tour packages from Beijing for you. Please make your choice from our collections or let us customize one for you.