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
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Park Plaza Beijing Wangfujing
Reviewed on May 20, 2024
East Sacred Hotel-near Beijing Tiananmen Square,the Forbidden City,Wangfujing Street-Newly renovated hotel
Reviewed on Apr. 9, 2024
The PuXuan Hotel and Spa
Reviewed on Mar. 24, 2024
Tours & day trips
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Theme parks
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Spa & wellness
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Food, drink & nightlife
See all 74 activitiesOpens in new tabPrivate Tour: Great Wall at Badaling & Ming Tomb with Lunch
Shows & concerts
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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 acclaimed art scene and entertainment choices 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 entertainment choices 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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