Complete Guide to Exploring Tiananmen Square: History, Reservations, and Must-See Landmarks

Hello, I’m Michael Zhang, an experienced travel expert with a passion for history and culture. I have traveled extensively around the world, and my favorite part of any journey is diving deep into the cultural and historical context of each place. In this guide, I’ll take you on a journey through Tiananmen Square and the surrounding landmarks, providing practical tips for exploring this iconic area.

Tiananmen Square holds significant cultural and political meaning in China’s modern history. It’s important to note that several attractions in the area require advance reservations, including Tiananmen Square itself, the Tiananmen Gate Tower, the Mausoleum of Mao Zedong, the National Museum of China, and the Forbidden City. I’ll guide you on how to make these reservations throughout the article, ensuring you have a smooth visit.

Historical Background of Tiananmen

Tiananmen, located at the heart of Beijing at the intersection of the city’s central axis and Chang’an Avenue, serves as the main gateway to the Forbidden City. Originally constructed in 1417, Tiananmen stands 34.7 meters tall and covers an area of 4,800 square meters. The main structure consists of the tower itself and a massive platform, both of which are fine examples of traditional Chinese palace architecture. The tower was the site where, on October 1, 1949, Chairman Mao Zedong declared the founding of the People’s Republic of China, solidifying its place as a symbol of modern China.

6 Must-See Attractions in the Tiananmen Area

1. Tiananmen Square

With a massive area of 440,000 square meters, Tiananmen Square is the largest public square in the world and holds immense historical significance. Visitors can witness the flag-raising ceremony, which is a deeply patriotic and solemn event.

2. Tiananmen Gate Tower

As a key site during the founding of the People’s Republic of China, the gate tower houses numerous historical relics and photographs from that time. Its distinct architectural style showcases China’s rich cultural heritage.

3. Mausoleum of Mao Zedong

A visit to this mausoleum offers a chance to honor the memory of China’s founding leader.

4. Monument to the People’s Heroes

This monument commemorates the martyrs who sacrificed their lives during China’s revolutionary history.

5. National Museum of China

Located on the east side of the square, this museum boasts a vast collection of China’s cultural and historical treasures, from ancient pottery to modern documents.

6. The Forbidden City (Palace Museum)

Sitting just north of Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City is the largest and most well-preserved collection of ancient buildings in China. The vast palace complex contains nearly 10,000 rooms and covers an area of 720,000 square meters.

Travel Guide for Visiting Tiananmen Square

Ticket and reservation Information

Tiananmen Square Reservation

• Reservation link: https://yuyue.tamgw.beijing.gov.cn/login.html
• Cost: Free
• Reservation period: Opens 7 days in advance at 5:00 PM each day
• Opening hours: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM
• Flag-raising times:
  • Morning: Between 3:00 AM and 6:30 AM
  • Evening: Between 3:30 PM and 9:00 PM
• Note: If you are unable to make a reservation online, it is recommended to seek assistance from a travel agency.

• Recommended product:
  Tiananmen Square tickets and transportation service, click here.

Tiananmen Gate Tower Reservation

• Reservation link: https://www.tiananmenchenglou.com/login
• Cost: 15 RMB per adult. Free for visitors under 18 years old or over 60 with valid ID.
• Reservation period: Opens 7 days in advance at 5:00 PM each day
• Opening hours:
  • Open from Tuesday to Sunday, closed on Mondays.
  • From April 1 to October 31, 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM, closes at 5:00 PM).
  • From November 1 to March 31, 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM (last entry at 4:00 PM, closes at 4:30 PM).
• Note: If you are unable to make a reservation, a travel agency can help.

Mausoleum of Mao Zedong Reservation

• Reservation link: https://jnt.mfu.com.cn/page/user
• Cost: Free
• Reservation period: Opens 7 days in advance at 12:30 PM each day.
• Opening hours:
  1. Open from Tuesday to Sunday, 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM.
• Note: If the website is unavailable, seek help from a travel agency.

National Museum of China Reservation

• Reservation link: https://pcticket.chnmuseum.cn/#/
• Cost: Free
• Reservation period: Opens 7 days in advance at 5:00 PM each day.
• Opening hours: Open from Tuesday to Sunday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:00 PM, closes at 4:30 PM).
• Note: Final booking confirmation may require use of the designated WeChat system. If you experience any issues, it’s best to contact a travel agency for help.

Forbidden City (Palace Museum) Reservation

• Opening hours:
  • Peak season (April 1 – October 31): 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:00 PM).
  • Off-season (November 1 – March 31): 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM (last entry at 3:30 PM).
  • Tip: Closed on Mondays (except for national holidays), so be sure to check opening days in advance.
• Ticket prices:
  • Peak season (April 1 – October 31): General ticket 60 RMB, Treasure Gallery 10 RMB, Clock and Watch Gallery 10 RMB.
  • Off-season (November 1 – March 31): General ticket 40 RMB, combined Treasure and Clock Gallery ticket 20 RMB.
  • Discounted tickets: 20 RMB for students (undergraduate level or lower, over 18 years old); 30 RMB for seniors (over 60) during peak season, 20 RMB during the off-season.
• How to purchase:
  • Online purchase:
    • Reservation link: https://bookingticket.dpm.org.cn/
    • Follow the instructions to register and purchase your ticket.
    • Tip: Tickets are only available for the upcoming 7 days. The Forbidden City is extremely popular, and tickets often sell out quickly, so be sure to book early.
  • On-site purchase:
    • Bring your passport and buy at the entrance.
• For more detailed travel tips to the Forbidden City, please click here: Forbidden City Travel Guide.

Transportation Guide to Tiananmen

The easiest way to reach Tiananmen Square is by taking the subway and exiting at the D security check gate (Exit D). From there, you will face Tiananmen Square directly, offering a perfect view.

Recommended Itineraries for Exploring Tiananmen

Classic Route: Tiananmen Gate Tower → Mausoleum of Mao Zedong → Monument to the People’s Heroes → National Museum of China → Forbidden City.
This route gives you a comprehensive understanding of modern Chinese history while experiencing the grandeur of Tiananmen Square.

Cultural Exploration Route: Tiananmen Square → National Museum of China → Forbidden City → Zhongshan Park → Jingshan Park.
This route focuses more on China’s deep historical and cultural legacy, perfect for history enthusiasts.

Luggage Storage Tips

It’s generally not recommended to bring large luggage to Tiananmen Square, as you may need to wait in long lines and walk considerable distances between attractions. However, if you must bring luggage, several nearby shops offer storage services. Typical prices are around 20 RMB for large bags and 10 RMB for small ones.

Restaurant Guide near Tiananmen

• Siji Minfu Roast Duck Restaurant
  • Must-try: Roast Duck.
  • Address: 11 Nanchizi Street, Dongcheng District, Beijing.
• Dahai Jing Cuisine Zhajiangmian
  • Must-try: Zhajiangmian.
  • Address: Room 107, 33 Wusi Street, Dongcheng District, Beijing.
• Yongshengzhai Snacks
  • Must-try: Mending Meat Pie.
  • Address: 40 Qihelou Street, Dongcheng District, Beijing.
• Dahuaishu BBQ Restaurant
  • Must-try: Traditional Beijing BBQ.
  • Address: 23 Meishuguan East Street, Dongcheng District, Beijing.
• Heyan Beijing Pie
  • Must-try: Beijing Pie.
  • Address: 60 Donghuamen Street, Dongcheng District, Beijing.