The Imperial Heart of Dongcheng
One of the largest public squares on earth, a palace of nearly a thousand buildings, and golden roofs seen from a hilltop at sunset — a day spent entirely within walking range.
Start early at Tiananmen Square. Security here is strict — you'll pass a passport scan and a bag check, so carry your physical passport at all times and allow a little queuing time. Stand in the middle and take it in: the portrait of Mao above Tiananmen Gate to the north, the Monument to the People's Heroes, and the Great Hall of the People flanking the square.
Then pass through Tiananmen Gate into the Forbidden City, entering through the southern Meridian Gate (午门). Walk the central axis past the great courtyards and the three throne halls, through the imperial garden, and out through the northern Gate of Divine Prowess (神武门). The walk is longer than it looks — budget a comfortable 2.5 to 3 hours. For the central-axis route and the rooms not to miss, read our Forbidden City guide.
Step out of the palace's north gate and cross the road to Jingshan Park, an artificial hill built from the earth dug out of the palace moat. The climb to the Wanchun Pavilion at the summit takes 10 to 15 minutes — and rewards you with the best view in Beijing. Below you, the golden roofs of the Forbidden City line up along a perfect central axis, with the modern skyline behind. Late afternoon into early evening gives the softest light for photos.
Come down from Jingshan and take a short metro ride or taxi to Wangfujing (王府井), the central pedestrian shopping street, or to Qianmen and Dashilan (前门 · 大栅栏), a restored old-style street with a heritage tram. Both make easy spots for a first dinner. Night one in Beijing calls for Peking duck — well-known names include Siji Minfu (四季民福), which has a branch with a palace view, and the historic Quanjude (全聚德). Book ahead if you're going at peak times. For more recommendations, see our Peking duck guide.
