Introduction
It can be said that Tiananmen is a place every Chinese person dreams of visiting, eager to witness its grandeur firsthand. This is not only because the founding ceremony of the People’s Republic of China was held at Tiananmen Square, but also because this historic moment is vividly depicted in primary school textbooks, embedding the image of Tiananmen deeply into the memory of every Chinese citizen.
Tiananmen is located in the heart of Beijing, the capital of China. The square to its south is one of the largest and most magnificent city squares in the world. At the center of Tiananmen Square stands the towering Monument to the People’s Heroes, inscribed with Chairman Mao Zedong’s golden words, “人民英雄永垂不朽”(the meaning is “Eternal Glory to the People’s Heroes”). At the southern end of the square is the Chairman Mao Memorial Hall. On the east and west sides, the National Museum of China and the majestic Great Hall of the People face each other.
Every sunrise, a solemn flag-raising ceremony is held at Tiananmen Square, drawing countless spectators. On holidays, the crowds are even more immense, creating a sea of people.
Best Time to Visit
It can be visited year-round, but autumn is recommended as the weather is pleasant.
Tour Route
You can follow the route below for your tour.
1.Tiananmen Gate Tower
First, ascend the Tiananmen Gate Tower and enjoy a panoramic view of the entire Tiananmen Square. In the center of the square stands the Monument to the People’s Heroes, with the National Museum of China on the left and the Great Hall of the People on the right.
Inside the Gate Tower, there are 9 large Chinese-style paintings showcasing China’s magnificent landscapes. Additionally, it houses precious historical artifacts, including the first wooden national emblem that once hung on the tower, the microphone used during the founding ceremony, and many valuable historical images that witness significant moments in history.
Tickets for the Tiananmen Gate Tower must be reserved in advance, with no same-day tickets available for sale at the site. After successful reservation, visitors must bring valid identification and enter according to the designated time slot for inspection. After passing security, you can take photos while visiting the tower. The visit area is not large, and the tour can be completed in about half an hour. Additionally, the visit is time-limited to 40 minutes.
Since the number of visitors is restricted daily, tickets for the Tiananmen Gate Tower are often hard to obtain. Tickets for the 7th day are released daily at 5:00 PM, so it is recommended to purchase immediately once the tickets are available.
After the visit, you must descend the tower and proceed northward only. Walk through Duanmen(端门) to the Meridian Gate(午门) of the Forbidden City, pass through the “Left Gate”(阙左门) on the right side, then turn left and exit through the East Gate(东华门) of the Forbidden City.
2.The Monument to the People’s Heroes (Located at the center of Tiananmen Square)
Exit through the East Gate(东华门) of the Forbidden City, walk south along Nanchizi Street to Tiananmen Square. The distance is about 1.2 kilometers, taking approximately 20 minutes on foot.
After passing security, enter Tiananmen Square and head to the center to visit the Monument to the People’s Heroes. The base of the monument is decorated with 10 relief sculptures depicting historical events: the Destruction of Opium at Humen, the Jintian Uprising, the Wuchang Uprising, the May Fourth Movement, the May Thirtieth Movement, the Nanchang Uprising, the Anti-Japanese Guerrilla War, the Victory of Crossing the Yangtze River, Supporting the Frontline, and Welcoming the People’s Liberation Army.
To visit Tiananmen Square, you must make a reservation in advance through the “Tiananmen Square Reservation Service Platform” as same-day reservations are not allowed.
If you wish to watch the flag-raising ceremony, you must book the “Flag Raising Time Slot.” For a better view, consider bringing a folding stool and standing a bit higher (but not too high to avoid obstructing the view of others). It is recommended to stand at the back of the crowd, as this allows you to avoid waiting too early and also ensures you don’t block others’ view.
3.Mao Zedong Memorial Hall
Finally, pay a visit to the Mao Zedong Memorial Hall. There are usually many people, and the wait can be quite long.
To visit the Mao Zedong Memorial Hall, you must make a reservation through the “毛主席纪念堂” WeChat official account or mini-program, as same-day reservations are not allowed. It is only open in the morning, from Tuesday to Sunday, 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM. It is closed on Mondays. Be sure to dress appropriately, as slippers are not allowed inside. When inside, follow the crowd, do not stop, and photography is prohibited. The visit lasts approximately 5 minutes. You may voluntarily purchase flowers for 3 yuan each to offer as a tribute.
Photos
Basic Information
The Tiananmen Gate Tower charges an entry fee of 15 RMB(Approx. USD 2.1). Visitors under 18 years old (excluding 18) and over 60 years old (including those from Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan, and foreign nationals) can visit for free upon reservation with valid identification. Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult, who also needs to make a reservation and purchase a ticket.
The Mao Zedong Memorial Hall is free of charge.
Certain items are prohibited inside, and free bag storage services are available for visitors.
Transportation Options
It is recommended to take the subway to “Tiananmen East Station.” Exit from Gate A, and you will arrive at the security checkpoint for the Tiananmen Gate Tower. After passing through security, you will be able to see the Tiananmen Gate Tower.
Important Notes
You cannot simply make a reservation for Tiananmen Square; separate reservations are required for the Tiananmen Gate Tower, Mao Zedong Memorial Hall, and other attractions you plan to visit.
It’s best to avoid bringing bags if possible, as using the “no-bag lane” during security checks is quicker and saves time waiting in line. When storing bags, remember to take out your identification documents and carry them with you, as security will check your ID.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to make a separate reservation for Tiananmen Square if I’ve already booked for Mao Zedong Memorial Hall?
No, you don’t need a separate reservation for Tiananmen Square. However, if you plan to visit the Tiananmen Gate Tower, you will need to make an additional reservation for it.
Can I bring a two-year-old child into the Mao Zedong Memorial Hall?
It’s not recommended, as young children might cause disturbances, making it inappropriate for them to visit the hall.
Can I bring my phone into the Mao Zedong Memorial Hall?
Yes, you can bring your phone, but photography is not allowed inside.
If I miss my reservation time, can I still enter?
It’s likely that you will still be able to enter, though this depends on the situation.