Tian'anmen Square
China flag

Tian'anmen Square

4 hoursEasy
HistoryLandmarkArchitecture

About This Experience

Tian'anmen Square is one of the largest public squares in the world, stretching across 44 hectares in the heart of Beijing. Flanked by monumental government buildings, museums, and the iconic Tian'anmen Gate, the square has been the stage for many of China's most significant historical moments.

What to Expect

The sheer scale of the square is immediately striking. The Monument to the People's Heroes stands at its centre, while the Great Hall of the People lines the western edge and the National Museum of China sits to the east. At the southern end, the Mausoleum of Mao Zedong draws long queues of visitors. The square is best experienced in the early morning, when locals gather to watch the flag-raising ceremony at sunrise.

Practical Tips

  • Arrive early to avoid crowds and enjoy the flag-raising ceremony at dawn
  • Bring your passport — security checks require ID for entry
  • The square is fully open-air with no shade, so bring sun protection
  • Combine your visit with the Forbidden City, which is directly north through the gate

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