MY TRAVEL INFO: TIANANMEN SQUARE, BEIJING, CHINA

TIANANMEN SQUARE (2001)

TIANANMEN SQUARE (2001)

TIANANMEN SQUARE (2016)

Tiananmen Square is a massive, iconic public space in the heart of Beijing, China, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2024 and a symbol of Chinese history and national identity. It has been the focal point for numerous pivotal events and is surrounded by important civic buildings and monuments.

Key Landmarks and Attractions

The square and its vicinity feature several significant structures: 

• Tiananmen Gate (Gate of Heavenly Peace): Located to the north, this gate serves as the entrance to the Forbidden City and is famous for the large portrait of Chairman Mao Zedong that hangs above its central arch. It was from the rostrum of this gate that Mao proclaimed the founding of the People's Republic of China on October 1, 1949.
• Monument to the People's Heroes: Standing at the center of the square, this 38-meter (125 ft) granite obelisk is a monument to the martyrs of the Chinese revolutionary struggles of the 19th and 20th centuries.
• Mausoleum of Mao Zedong: Situated at the southern end of the square, this is the final resting place of the founder of the People's Republic of China, whose embalmed body is on display in a crystal casket.
• Great Hall of the People: Located on the western edge of the square, this imposing building is the meeting place for the National People's Congress, China's national legislature.
• National Museum of China: On the eastern side, this museum houses vast collections showcasing China's extensive history and cultural heritage.

Historical Significance

Tiananmen Square has been a central gathering place for major events throughout China's modern history: 

• May Fourth Movement (1919): Early 20th-century student-led anti-imperialist protests took place here.
• Proclamation of the PRC (1949): Chairman Mao Zedong announced the establishment of the People's Republic of China in the square.
• 1976 Tiananmen Incident: A mass gathering and protest occurred in mourning for Premier Zhou Enlai, leading to a government crackdown at the time.
• 1989 Protests: The square was the epicenter of student-led pro-democracy demonstrations that culminated in a military crackdown on June 3-4, 1989. This event is widely known outside of China, though heavily censored within the country.

Visiting Information

• Admission: Entrance to the square itself is free, but requires a reservation made in advance, often via the WeChat app. Separate reservations are also necessary to enter the surrounding buildings and museums.
• Security: Be prepared for multiple, strict security checkpoints, and you must carry your passport for identification.
• Best Time to Visit: Spring (April-June) and autumn (September-November) offer pleasant weather. Many visitors come early in the morning for the daily flag-raising ceremony or at sunset for the flag-lowering ceremony.

Reference:

1. Wikipedia : Tiananmen Square
2. Wikipedia : Mausoleum of Mao Zedong
3. Wikipedia : National Museum of China
4. Wikipedia : Monument to the People's Heroes
5. Wikipedia : 1989 Tiananmen Square protests and massacre

Compiles by:

Hj Zulheimy Maamor

Lembah Keramat, K.L

16/12/2025: 1.27 a.m