It’s the history, more so than the architecture, behind Tiananmen Square that has brought it into the international spotlight. This public square is surrounded by Beijing’s most famous attractions, a sight you can’t miss if you are in Beijing. Centrally located, Tianaman Square covers an area of nearly 109 acres (44 hectares). It is framed by two imperial gates to its north and south: the Gate of Heavenly Peace (Tiananmen Gate) and the Front Gate (Qianmen Gate). To the west stands the communist-era Great Hall of the People, the meeting place of the Chinese government. To the east is the National Museum of China. Get to the square early and line up for the daily flag-raising ceremony, with soldiers of the People’s Liberation Army marching across the square. This flag is lowered with a similar stately show at sunset.Tiananmen Square is heavily monitored by security cameras, metal detectors and police officers, presumably because it has a long history of a place of dissent. Examples of this dissent include the mass protest against the Versailles Treaty in 1919 and the pro-democracy student uprising 70 years later. These days the atmosphere in the square is very friendly, so take in the scene at your own pace. Buy a kite for your children or watch the locals take photos at the Monument to the People’s Heroes in front of the Chairman Mao Memorial Hall. Inside this hall in the mausoleum, you can get a closer look at Mao Zedong, who died in 1976. Line up to catch a glimpse of what is either his mummified body, or a wax replica, depending on who you ask. Either way, you’ll be filing past the image of one of China’s most famous rulers at rest.To reach Tiananmen Square, take a taxi or the subway Tian’anmen East, Tian’anmen West or Qianmen Station. Many combine their visit to the square with a journey through the adjacent Forbidden City.
Tiananmen Square Tours and Activities
Visit Tiananmen Square
Tours & day trips
See all 1404 activitiesOpens in new tabGreat Wall at Badaling, Forbidden City, TAM Square Day Tour
Theme parks
See all 4 activitiesOpens in new tabLama Temple, Old Drum Tower, Beihai Park, Hutong Rickshaw with Dumpling Mak...
Food, drink & nightlife
See all 104 activitiesOpens in new tabPrivate Tour: Great Wall at Badaling & Ming Tomb with Lunch
Shows & concerts
See all 41 activitiesOpens in new tabBeijing Roast Duck Banquet & Acrobatic Show Evening Tour
Shopping & fashion
See all 41 activitiesOpens in new tab2-Day Beijing City Highlight Tour with Forbidden City
Reviews of Tiananmen Square
3/5 - Okay
So, so, so crowded
Popular places to visit
China Museum of History
You can browse the exhibits at China Museum of History, a museum with a storied past, during your travels to Beijing. Experience the entertainment choices and fascinating museums in this culturally rich area.
Monument to the People's Heroes
You can learn about the history of Beijing when you stop by Monument to the People's Heroes. Discover the fascinating museums and temples in this culturally rich area.
Chairman Mao Memorial Hall
View the entombed body of Chairman Mao Zedong, which rests within his vast mausoleum in the middle of the famous Tiananmen Square.
National Museum of China
In one of the largest museums in the world, the amazing collection of valuable relics include rare bronze and porcelain objects, jade artifacts and artworks.
Zhengyangmen
This grand structure was the original front gate to the once-walled city of Beijing. Climb to the top for fantastic views over its archery tower and Tiananmen Square.
Tiananmen
Find out about the history of Beijing with a stop at Tiananmen. Visit the shops and temples in this culturally rich area.
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