Routes

Beijing Central Axis Cultural Journey

Culture

Best Time:
May
Recommended:
2 days
Admission:
500-800 RMB 500-800 RMB

Features

In July 2024, Beijing Central Axis was successfully inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, becoming the capital's 8th World Cultural Heritage property. Qianmen Dajie (St) showcases time-honored Beijing brands and authentic local flavors, while the historic Daguanlou Cinema in Dashilar marks the birthplace of Chinese cinema's 120th anniversary. The Southern Central Axis' Imperial Pathway and Tianqiao area, once reserved exclusively for emperors, whisper tales of dynastic grandeur.

JIngshan Park
Daguanlou Cinema

Stop 1 Jingshan Park

Offering panoramic views southward over the Forbidden City and northward toward the Bell and Drum Towers.

Highlights:

Perched atop Jingshan Park, the Wanchun Pavilion stands as the highest point along Beijing Central Axis, offering panoramic views southward over the Forbidden City and northward toward the Bell and Drum Towers. Nearby, the Yuan Dynasty-era Wanning Bridge—still functioning as a vital thoroughfare for buses and vehicles—bridges past and present. At the axis' northern end rises the Bell Tower, marking the culmination of Beijing's 7.8-kilometer-long Central Axis.

Stop 2 Daguanlou Cinema

Exactly 120 years ago in 1905, China’s first film, Dingjun Mountain, premiered at Daguanlou Cinema, marking the birth of Chinese cinema.

Highlights:

Exactly 120 years ago in 1905, China's first film, Dingjun Mountain, premiered at Daguanlou Cinema, marking the birth of Chinese cinema. Remarkably, the theater has remained in its original location, preserving its historic charm to this day.

Stop 3 Beijing Ancient Architecture Museum

Situated within the Xiannong Altar—a Ming-Qing imperial sacrificial complex—the monumental Taisui Hall houses the museum's crown jewel

Highlights:

Situated within the Xiannong Altar—a Ming-Qing imperial sacrificial complex—the monumental Taisui Hall houses the museum's crown jewel: the Celestial Well Ceiling from the Wanshan Zhengjue Hall of Longfu Temple, displayed atop its grand interior. Revered as the "gold standard of Beijing fridge magnets," this intricate miniature replica of the caisson has become a viral hit and the city's most sought-after cultural souvenir, embodying Beijing's creative brilliance.