Things To Do Near Tiananmen Square in Beijing

Tiananmen Square is the exact center of Beijing, and some of the city's most important structures, sites and attractions are nearby.

Tiananmen Square is located in the center of a linear row of ancient structures that stretches from the south to the north of the city. Immediately south of the square is the Qianmen Market Street while to the north if the epic Forbidden City. In the center of the square are the Monument to the People and the Mausoleum of one-time ruler of Communist China, Mao Zedong. From one central point you can see much of Beijing (and China's) historical and cultural highlights!

To the sides, you have the Great Hall of the People, which is a government building of massive proportions usually covered in the red Chinese flag and guarded by smartly uniformed soldiers. It is an impressive site overlooking the square, and worth a visit though you are unlikely to be granted access without an invitation.

The other side boasts the Museum of Chinese History and is a massive building housing some of China's most important relics and artifacts. To gain even a basic understanding of the country and its long past, a visit to the museum is in order. Since it is centrally located, its an easy thing to see on your way to the Forbidden City.

Nearby you have Wangfujing shopping street, and branching off of that the Dong Hua Men Night Market, where you can try scorpion on a stick, or even seahorse. Its a real treat and the perfect way to round out a long day of sightseeing around Tiananmen Square.

More Top Lists

Popular Places