Beijing’s Central Axis is a captivating line that runs from the northern part of the city to the southern end, showcasing some of the most iconic landmarks. If you’re short on time, this one-day itinerary offers an efficient yet fulfilling journey through the heart of Beijing, from the ancient Drum and Bell Towers to the serene Temple of Heaven. Whether you’re an avid traveler or a history enthusiast, this guide covers the must-visit spots and offers tips for a memorable day out in Beijing.
Route Overview
Drum and Bell Towers ➡ Shichahai ➡ Yandai Xiejie ➡ Jingshan Park ➡ Great Hall of the People ➡ Tiananmen Square ➡ Qianmen Street ➡ Temple of Heaven.
Note: You can reverse the order and start from the south to north if preferred!
Route Highlights
✅ Drum and Bell Towers:
Featured in the song “Drum Tower” by Zhao Lei, these iconic structures are a must-see in Beijing. Located behind red walls, the Bell Tower is now open to visitors for a 20 yuan entrance fee, making it an accessible stop for anyone wanting to learn about the city’s ancient timekeeping methods.
✅ Shichahai:
Shichahai Lake area is perfect for a relaxing stroll. Starting from the Houhai area and heading towards Qianhai, you’ll find scenic walking paths that are quiet even in the morning. In spring, the shores are lined with blooming mountain peach flowers, while in summer, you can enjoy lotus flowers and willow trees along the water.
✅ Yandai Xiejie:
Walk along the lakeside until you reach the Silver Ingot Bridge, where you’ll find Yandai Xiejie—a charming alleyway known for its traditional Beijing atmosphere. Here, you can sample street food, try local milk tea, and take a break to recharge for the rest of the tour.
✅ Jingshan Park:
From Yandai Xiejie, take a bike or walk to Jingshan Park. This is arguably one of the best two yuan you can spend in Beijing. A small hill with incredible views, it offers the perfect vantage point to look down on the Forbidden City. It’s one of the best spots to capture stunning photos and get a bird’s-eye view of Beijing.
✅ Great Hall of the People:
After visiting Jingshan Park, hop on a bike and ride towards the Great Hall of the People. It’s an excellent photo opportunity with the national emblem at the entrance. If you want to go inside, reservations must be made through the WeChat Mini Program—preferably three days in advance. Once inside, you’ll get to experience China’s political grandeur firsthand.
✅ Tiananmen Square:
To visit Tiananmen Square, you’ll need to make an advance reservation at least one day ahead via the WeChat Mini Program. Make sure to bring your ID, as it’s required for entry. This spot is iconic, and while you can’t always access the Monument to the People’s Heroes, you can enjoy great views from the surrounding areas.
✅ Qianmen Street:
After exploring Tiananmen Square, head to Qianmen Street, one of the oldest and most famous shopping streets in Beijing. It’s home to numerous traditional shops and food stalls, and the architecture is a beautiful blend of old and new. This area is perfect for food lovers and those wanting to explore Beijing’s traditional craftsmanship. Be sure to try local delicacies and snap a few photos while you’re at it.
✅ Temple of Heaven:
To finish the day, head to the Temple of Heaven. Make sure to purchase tickets in advance and enter through the North Gate, exiting through the South Gate. The Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests is one of the most famous spots here, so it’s bound to be crowded. For better photos, try shooting from a lower angle to avoid crowds.
✅ Bonus Tip:
When you exit the Temple of Heaven, make sure to stop by South Gate Hot Pot (南门涮肉), one of the oldest and most authentic hot pot restaurants in Beijing. Located near the south gate of the Temple of Heaven, this place offers delicious copper pot hot pot—a true Beijing delicacy. It’s the perfect way to cap off your day with an unforgettable taste of local cuisine.