Top 6 Must-See Attractions at Tiananmen Square — Most Famous Square in History
Tiananmen Square means the Square of the Gate of Heavenly Peace. Situated in the centre of Beijing, China, it is one of the largest public squares in the world. Widely used as a national symbol of China, it has great cultural significance as it was the site of several events that changed China forever.
Beijing has always been the top choice for travellers who wish to discover the ancient Chinese history while experiencing the modern life of China. It has the perfect mix of the ancient and the modern, offering visitors a lot of things to do and see.
This is why Tiananmen Square is a must-see when you visit Beijing. Here’s a list of attractions that will take you from ancient to modern:
1) Tiananmen Gate
Tiananmen Gate means the “Gate of Heavenly Peace”. During the Ming and Qing dynasties, it was the gateway to the palace. Now, it is a symbol of modern China and the emblem of People’s Republic of China.
Flag Ceremony & Guard Changing
The flag raising and lowering ceremonies, at sunrise and sunset respectively, are worth the watch. Many people also head there to watch the Changing of Guard ceremony.
TIP #1: Head there early in the morning to get a good spot for the ceremony and avoid the crowd. You can also get a good picture with a lesser crowd!
2) Forbidden City
A UNESCO Heritage site not to be missed!
The Forbidden City is a treasure trove of cultural relics. With 9,999 rooms and its ancient architectural structure, you’ll be in awe of its majestic beauty.
As it covers a vast area, it will take you about 2 to 3 hours there.
TIP #2: If you’re there during the summer, the weather can be pretty hot. Remember to wear a hat, apply sunscreen and bring plenty of water.
3) National Museum of China
Have a close look at the ancient Chinese treasures at the museum. Being the 3rd largest museum in the world, there are over 1 million collections there. The oldest artifact is from 1.7 million years ago!
Be prepared to spend about 3 to 4 hours there as there’s so much to see!
4) Mausoleum of Mao Ze Dong
This is the final resting place of Chairman Mao, who is still highly revered across China. His body, covered with the flag of Community Party of China, can be found in a crystal coffin.
The second level are memorial rooms for China’s revolutionary leaders — Deng Xiao Ping, Zhou En Lai etc. Bonus — be sure to catch a 20-minute documentary “Nostalgia” about the revolutionary leaders in the movie hall!
TIP #3: Visit this after the Tiananmen Gate as this is only open in the morning. It is just right behind the Tiananmen Square. You can head to the Forbidden City after this.
5) Monument to the People’s Heroes
Situated in the middle of the Tiananmen Square, the Monument to the People’s Heroes commemorates the people who have sacrificed their lives in the People’s Liberation War and the People’s Revolution.
At the front, the words “People’s Heroes are Immortal” are inscribed in Chairman Mao’s handwriting.
6) Great Hall of the People
Fun fact: The Great Hall of the People is used as a motif on the 100-Yuan bank note. This is because this site is where important decisions by the Chinese Government are made.
A Night View Not to Be Missed
As the sun sets over Tiananmen Square, the surrounding buildings will be lit up. It’s the best time to take a pleasant stroll around Tiananmen Square and relish the night beauty of Beijing.
Getting There: Via Subway Line 1, alight at Tiananmen East station or Tiananmen West station
Things to Note:
· Entry points to Tiananmen Square have airport-level security. It is advisable to bring your passport.
· There are strict rules are the Mausoleum of Mao Ze Dong. Dress in appropriate attire as thin vests and sandals are not allowed. It is best to travel light as bags and cameras are not allowed inside the hall.
· As Tiananmen Square is a political place that is regulated by the government and the police, it may be subject to temporary closure without prior notice.
· Chinese tourists rarely see non-Asian faces, so be prepared that they may take photos of you or ask you to take photos with them.
· Tiananmen Square is wheelchair-friendly. Wheelchair users may cross the Chang’an Street via the underground tunnel at the northwest corner of the square to visit the Forbidden City.
