Located on the south side of Chang'an Street, on the traditional central axis of Beijing, lies the world's largest square—Tiananmen Square. In the center of the square stands the Monument to the People's Heroes. Passing through the Chairman Mao Memorial Hall, you can reach Zhengyangmen, commonly known as Qianmen. The Great Hall of the People is on the west side of the square, and the National Museum is on the east side. Facing the square, on the north side of Chang'an Street, is the Tiananmen Gate Tower, with the shimmering Jinshui River below it. Every morning and evening, a solemn flag-raising and lowering ceremony is held at Tiananmen Square. For those new to Beijing, watching the flag ceremony is a must. The Monument to the People's Heroes, the Chairman Mao Memorial Hall, and the National Museum on the east side of Tiananmen are all open to the public for free.
Shichahai
Shichahai is not only picturesque but also rich in cultural atmosphere. Yinding Bridge, Yandai Xiejie, Nanluoguxiang, Lotus Market, Huguo Temple Snacks, and Bar Street are all located here. People who miss old Beijing love this place because it has the most authentic Beijing flavor. In the past, high-ranking officials and nobles lived here, so the courtyards and hutongs are well-preserved. If you walk north from Lotus Market, you will reach Yinding Bridge, and then Yandai Xiejie. If you continue north from Shichahai, you will reach the Drum Tower, and further east is Nanluoguxiang. You can spend half a day here. In the summer evenings, you can enjoy the cool breeze, and in the winter, you can skate on real ice. You can spend half a day to a full day exploring the different areas of Shichahai.
798 Art District
Whether you are an art enthusiast or not, you can come here to experience a touch of artistic flair. Art lovers should definitely visit to feel the artistic atmosphere. This is a renovated old factory featuring various art forms and avant-garde art from around the world. Here you can find fine arts, creativity, fashion, photography, clay sculpture, coffee, bars, various graffiti, small shops, performance art, and more. There are also occasional events and exhibitions. To see what kind of exhibitions and activities are available, you need to explore and take lots of photos. It's perfect for all kinds of artistic photography, with a touch of sophistication and literary youth!
Beijing Olympic Park
The Bird's Nest is the most iconic, followed by the Water Cube (additional ticket required for entry). Next to it is the Olympic Forest Park, a sunken garden with seven courtyards featuring Chinese elements, fully showcasing China's historical and modern cultural heritage. To the east is the Science and Technology Museum (additional ticket required), suitable for family and parent-child visits!
