Tiananmen Square
The world's largest city square, a monumental historical and political heart of Beijing, famous for its grand scale and daily flag ceremonies.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Witness the flag ceremony
Tiananmen Square
Best Time
Witness the flag ceremony
Highlights
Must-see attractions
The world's largest city square, a monumental historical and political heart of Beijing, famous for its grand scale and daily flag ceremonies.
"It's a must-see for its historical significance, but plan ahead for entry and security."
🎯 Book in Advance!
Reservations are often needed. Use WeChat mini-program or ask your hotel. Have your passport ready!
🚇 Subway Smart Exit
Exit at Tiananmen West Station, Entrance B to save walking time and beat queues.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Flag Raising Ceremony
Tiananmen Square
Witness the solemn flag raising ceremony, a significant daily ritual in the heart of Beijing.
Monument to the People's Heroes
Center of Tiananmen Square
A towering obelisk commemorating revolutionary martyrs, a central landmark of the square.
Great Hall of the People
Western side of Tiananmen Square
The imposing venue for legislative and ceremonial activities of the People's Republic of China.
National Museum of China
Eastern side of Tiananmen Square
Explore vast collections of Chinese art and history in this expansive museum.
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Entry
Strategic Access Points
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book in Advance!
Reservations are often needed. Use WeChat mini-program or ask your hotel. Have your passport ready! +1
🚇 Subway Smart Exit
Exit at Tiananmen West Station, Entrance B to save walking time and beat queues.
🛂 Strict Security Checks
Be prepared for thorough security. Avoid politically sensitive items.
🚶♀️ Alternative Forbidden City Entry
Skip Tiananmen Square for Forbidden City; enter via Zhongshan Park to avoid crowds. +1
Making the most of a Tiananmen Visit?
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book in Advance!
Reservations are often needed. Use WeChat mini-program or ask your hotel. Have your passport ready! +1
🚇 Subway Smart Exit
Exit at Tiananmen West Station, Entrance B to save walking time and beat queues.
🛂 Strict Security Checks
Be prepared for thorough security. Avoid politically sensitive items.
🚶♀️ Alternative Forbidden City Entry
Skip Tiananmen Square for Forbidden City; enter via Zhongshan Park to avoid crowds. +1
🆔 Always Carry ID
Your passport is essential for entry and security checks.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Tiananmen Square is a historically significant and vast public space, often praised for its scale and the solemn flag ceremonies. Visitors appreciate its central location and the imposing architecture of surrounding buildings. However, many note the extensive security checks and the need for advance reservations, which can be a point of frustration for some. +1
"More a drive by experience as the area was closed due to the massive military parade preparations for 80 years victory (over japan) celebrations. Security was very very serious for all. Traffic was rerouted on lots of nights for practice parades. A demonstration of military might for the west to take note of no doubt. Be sure to watch on tv early Sept. Even the locals can't go in person."
anil hansjee
"We went on a weekday. There were so many people lining up outside to get in. They do very thorough security checks. You also need to book in advance to get in. The tickets usually get booked up very quickly. If you are going to the Forbidden City. The ticket includes the square. The Square itself is okay. I wouldn't go here to see only the square."
Anne
"No fees needed for foreigner, but need to reserve at least a day before. Don't go without booking.
Required to walk a long way from train station and passed by multiple security checks.
Understand the history of the place, shared the same pain for the peoples. History must not be repeated. Sincerely hope for peace for all nations and people. 🕊️"
Michael L
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most convenient options from PEK are taking two taxis or using a Didi 6-seater van, especially with luggage. The subway is also an option but can be less convenient with bags.
Take Subway Line 1 to Tiananmen West Station. Exit through Entrance B to save time and avoid some of the walking.
Yes, taxis are readily available. Have your destination address ready in Chinese for the driver.
Taxis are generally available, but during peak times or events, you might experience longer waits. Using a ride-sharing app like Didi can be an alternative.
You can take the subway to Tiananmen West and walk through the square to the Forbidden City's Meridian Gate. Alternatively, consider entering the Forbidden City via Zhongshan Park to bypass the square's crowds. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, reservations are often required, especially for specific times or events. You can book via the official WeChat mini-program or ask your hotel for assistance. +1
The most common method is through the official WeChat mini-program. Your hotel reception can also often assist with bookings.
You must bring your passport. Your passport number will be checked against your reservation. +1
While some sources suggest it's possible, especially for foreign passport holders, booking in advance is highly recommended to avoid disappointment.
While not strictly enforced, it's advisable to dress respectfully. Avoid overly provocative clothing, as the area has political significance.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Visiting early in the morning for the flag raising or later in the afternoon can help you avoid the largest crowds. Evenings offer a more serene experience.
A typical visit to Tiananmen Square itself can take 1-2 hours, depending on your interest in the monuments and the flag ceremony.
Key sights include the Monument to the People's Heroes, the Great Hall of the People, the National Museum of China, and Mao Zedong's Mausoleum (check opening times).
While it's a significant historical site, some travelers suggest skipping it if your main focus is the Forbidden City to save time and avoid crowds, entering the Forbidden City via an alternative route. +1
Photography is generally allowed, but be mindful of security personnel and any restricted areas. Avoid taking photos of sensitive government buildings.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Food options directly within the square are limited. It's advisable to eat before or after your visit, or explore dining options in the surrounding areas.
The areas surrounding Tiananmen Square offer a wide range of dining choices, from local eateries to more upscale restaurants. Explore the Qianmen area for traditional Beijing cuisine.
Generally, bringing snacks and water is permissible, but large meals or excessive amounts of food might be restricted. Check current regulations upon entry.
📸 📸 Photography
The Monument to the People's Heroes offers a central point. Capturing the scale of the square with the surrounding buildings like the Great Hall of the People and the National Museum of China provides iconic shots.
You can see the Meridian Gate of the Forbidden City from Tiananmen Square, but for the best Forbidden City photos, it's recommended to enter the Forbidden City itself.
Early morning light can be beautiful for the flag ceremony, while late afternoon offers softer light. Evening provides a dramatic backdrop with the illuminated buildings.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
To make the visit more manageable for families, consider visiting during off-peak hours if possible. Bringing snacks and water is a good idea, though check current restrictions. If your goal is to visit the Forbidden City, using alternative entrances like Zhongshan Park can make the transition smoother and less tiring for younger ones.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Utilizing the Beijing subway system is the most economical way to reach the square. Exiting at Tiananmen West Station (Line 1) is recommended for efficiency.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Tiananmen Square: A Visitor's Guide
Key attractions within the square include the Monument to the People's Heroes, a striking obelisk dedicated to martyrs of the revolutionary struggle, and the imposing Great Hall of the People on the west side, which hosts state functions. On the east side stands the National Museum of China, housing vast collections of Chinese art and artifacts. Mao Zedong's Mausoleum is also located here, though its opening hours can be variable and require separate planning.
Many travelers find that while the square is impressive in scale, its primary draw is its historical context and the daily flag raising and lowering ceremonies. These ceremonies are a significant cultural experience, drawing crowds each morning and evening.
Booking and Entry: What You Need to Know
Your passport is your ticket to entry. Be prepared for stringent security checks, which include scanning your ID and sometimes asking about your intentions. It's advisable to avoid bringing anything that could be perceived as politically sensitive.
For those combining a visit with the Forbidden City, remember that Tiananmen Square is the traditional gateway. However, to bypass potential congestion, consider entering the Forbidden City via Zhongshan Park or the Imperial Garden. This strategy can significantly reduce your waiting time and offer a more relaxed start to your exploration.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit