Beijing: Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City, & Summer Palace｜China

Begin your day at Tiananmen Square, the heart of Beijing. Stand in the center of the city and admire the Monument to the People’s Heroes. Take in the atmosphere of this historic site, which has witnessed 600 years of dynastic changes and the rise of a new era.

Next, head to the Forbidden City, the world’s largest and best-preserved wooden palace complex. Cross the Golden Water Bridge and enter through the Gate of Supreme Harmony. Walk on the ancient stone paths and feel the echoes of history beneath your feet.

Marvel at the Hall of Supreme Harmony, the largest hall in the Forbidden City, and admire its golden roof and intricate carvings. Learn about the lives of the emperors and their families as you explore this vast complex.

Continue to the Temple of Heaven, a masterpiece of Chinese architecture and landscape design. Stand at the center of the Circular Mound Altar and look up at the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, with its three-tiered blue roof.

Learn about the ancient Chinese belief in the unity of heaven and earth and the rituals performed here by the emperors to ensure good harvests.

Finally, visit the Summer Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest and most well-preserved royal park in China. Stroll along the Long Corridor, a covered walkway decorated with over 14,000 paintings.

Admire the view of Longevity Hill and the Tower of Buddhist Incense, which glows golden in the setting sun. Take a boat ride on Kunming Lake and enjoy the tranquil beauty of this imperial garden.