Tian'anmen Square is the largest square in the world and the top scenic spots in Beijing, covering 440,000 square meters in total and able to accommodate 1 million people. Tian'anmen Square witnessed some significant historical events, as well as many democracy meetings and demonstrations. On the north of the square is the Tian'anmen Gate Tower. Standing in the center of it is the Monument to the People's Heroes. To the west and east respectively is the Great Hall of the People and Chinese National Museum. Sitting in the south is the Chairman Mao Memorial Hall and the Qianmen Gate. On the north side of Tian'anmen Square is Tian'anmen Gate.

Built in 1415, the Tian'anmen Gate was originally the main entrance to royal city in Ming and Qing Dynasty. Whenever there are major festivals, like going on an expedition or conducting marriages, emperors will proceed from this gate. In the early years, the gate tower is where emperors issue the edicts, till nowadays, many democracy meeting and demonstrations are held and it now lists as one of the top 16 of most visited attraction spots in Beijing area. The most famous activity took place at the Tian’anmen Square is the protests of 1989, where it was resulted in the massacre of Chinese protesters in the streets to the west of the square and adjacent areas. There are reports where soldiers opened fire on protesters, killing 400-800 and perhaps many more.

For the convenience of your Beijing travel in China, below is a selection of nearby Beijing hotels. For more sightseeing attractions in Beijing, please visit our Beijing Tourism website for a map to guide your China tour and to find your ideal China hotel.