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.

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 Beijing's highlights, such as the Forbidden City, the Great Wall (with Mutianyu as the top recommendation), the Temple of Heaven, the Summer Palace, and the Beijing Hutongs - plan for about 4 days, including arrival and departure.

☛ 4 Days Classic Beijing Tour Package

☛ 3 Days Beijing Essential Highlights Tour

If you have extra days, consider hiking the scenic Jinshanling Great Wall, enjoying the stunning night views of Simatai Great Wall, or visiting other sections like Huanghuacheng, Gubeikou, and Juyongguan.

☛ 4 Days Beijing Essence Tour with Simatai Great Wall Night Sightseeing

☛ 4 Days Classic Beijing Tour with Jinshanling Great Wall Hiking

Families with children should not miss Universal Beijing Resort, while museum enthusiasts should visit the National Museum of China, home to the nation's most valuable treasures.

☛ 5 Days Beijing Family-friendly Tour with Universal Studios Fun

☛ 5 Days In-depth Beijing Tour with History and Culture Discovery

As a major transportation hub, Beijing offers easy access to other top destinations in China by flight or train, such as Xi'an, Shanghai, Guilin, Chengdu, and Tibet. China Discovery provides a variety of tour packages from Beijing, or we can customize an itinerary to suit your preferences.

Recommended Beijing Tours with Other Top Cities in China:

☛ 6 Days Classic Beijing Xian High-speed Train Tour

☛ 8 Days Best of China Tour (Beijing - Xian - Shanghai)

☛ 10 Days Classic China Tour from Beijing (Beijing - Xian - Guilin - Shanghai)

We have helped many global travelers enjoy their memorable wonderful trips to Beijing for the past few years. Among them, a special team of over 50 VIPKID teachers from North America traveled with us to see their dear studends in China with amazing experience in Beijing and shared us their special travel story! Travel with China Discovery to create your great China trip memories!