The Evolution of Beijing at Tiananmen Square
The Evolution of Beijing
at Tiananmen Square
Join a knowledgeable historian on a walk through the past, present and future of Beijing at
Tiananmen Square and Beijing Urban Planning Hall. Learn about the history of the Square
and the ongoing evolution of Beijing from imperial capital to modern megalopolis.
WHY THIS TOUR?
Tiananmen Square is the symbolic heart of China and a gathering place for the masses. It is one of the largest public squares in the world and can hold one million people. Overlooked by a huge portrait of Chairman Mao and flanked by imposing Soviet-style buildings, the Square has been the location of historic events over the years.
On a two-tiered marble terrace in the centre of the square is the towering 125-foot-high granite obelisk, the Monument to the People’s Heroes, which honours those who died in revolution. On this fascinating day of exploration, you will be joined by an English-speaking historian and expert on Chinese history and culture who has lived in China for more than 20 years.
TRAIL ITINERARY
14:00 - 17:00
The driver will collect you from your hotel and take you to Tiananmen Square where you will meet the professional historian. This fascinating tour takes you back in time to relive Beijing’s history from its days as an imperial capital through to the founding of the People’s Republic of China in 1949 and on to the present day. For much of China’s modern history, the area around Tiananmen Square has been the political epicentre for the Chinese nation.
The first stop will be at the Beijing Urban Planning Hall located in the old railway station building next to the Square. This museum explores the history, present and future of urban planning in Beijing. Multimedia displays and exhibits cover the ancient city’s transition through history, the planning of the Olympic stadiums and the future blueprint of the city. It is a great place to understand the ongoing evolution of Beijing from imperial capital to modern megalopolis.
Next, stretch your legs with a stroll through the expansive Tiananmen Square. The historian will point out the buildings lining the Square and will tell you all about the history and the political issues of the city. Conclude your stroll by taking in two of Beijing’s most beautiful parks, both of which are former imperial spaces that were previously within the Forbidden City.
At the end of the tour, the driver will take you back to the hotel.