Chairman Mao Memorial Hall (毛主席纪念馆), located in the heart of Tiananmen Square, is a significant site for those wishing to pay their respects to one of China’s most prominent historical figures. This guide provides detailed directions and essential information for a smooth visit to the memorial, ensuring you maximize your experience while adhering to the hall’s regulations.
Detailed Directions
Starting Point: Tiananmen East Subway Station: Begin your journey by exiting from either Exit D or Exit B of Tiananmen East Subway Station. Avoid heading directly forward, as this leads to the queue for the National Museum of China. Instead, turn around and follow the signs to the security checkpoint for Tiananmen Square.
First Security Checkpoint: Proceed to the Square’s third security checkpoint, where you will present your ID for the first time. If you are accompanying children, use the designated children’s passage. After clearing security, turn left and walk straight, passing by the white tented restrooms. Along the way, you’ll find affordable drinks and snacks for sale, and you can see the National Museum on your left and the Monument to the People’s Heroes on your right.
Baggage Storage Facility: Continue until you see a red building, which is the baggage storage area. Please note that you cannot enter without a reservation, and this is where the second ID check occurs. Once inside, look for a less crowded counter. Press “Store” and complete the facial recognition process.
Crossing the Road: Once you have stored your bag, exit the baggage area and face the road directly across from it. Wait for the red light, as retractable gates will block your path. After crossing, take a left and walk along the railing until you find the queue entrance for the memorial.
Second Security Checkpoint: Walk straight through the corridor until you reach the memorial’s first security check, which includes another ID verification. Continue along the path, and wheelchair users will have access to a green channel leading to the second security check, where a full-body scan is required.
Purchase of Flowers: After passing through security, you have the option to purchase flowers to express your respect, priced at 3 RMB each. You can offer these flowers in front of the statue of Chairman Mao once you enter the hall.
Visiting the Memorial: After paying your respects, you may take photos for remembrance. Directly opposite the hall is Zhengyangmen, where you can find souvenir shops. When leaving, turn left to return to the route you came from to retrieve your belongings from the storage facility. Press “Retrieve” to collect your items, and ensure the cabinet is closed properly before heading off to explore other attractions.
Important Reminders
Visiting Hours: The memorial is open only from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM. It’s recommended to arrive ahead of your reserved time slot. If you have a reservation for the memorial, you do not need to reserve a spot for Tiananmen Square.
Prohibited Items: Please be aware that certain items are not allowed inside the memorial. These include backpacks, cameras, water bottles, and any liquid beverages. It is advisable to only bring your ID and mobile phone.
Respectful Conduct: Before entering the memorial, ensure your phone is either turned off or silenced, remove any hats as a sign of respect, and maintain a quiet demeanor. Remember that you cannot stop or take photos during your visit.
Baggage Storage: The baggage storage is free but is limited to a maximum of two hours. The storage facility operates from 7:30 AM to 11:50 AM, so make sure to collect your items by 1:30 PM.
Senior Access: There is a green channel for elderly visitors aged 70 and above, ensuring they can access the memorial with ease.
Dress Code: Visitors should dress appropriately; avoid wearing flip-flops or extremely short shorts.