Tiananmen Square in Beijing

Everyone has heard of Tiananmen Square and all the Tour Companies take you there to walk the Square and then over to see the Forbidden City. Many people overlook some great sites on the Square that can be viewed during some free days or free time later. Mao's Tomb is located at the south end of the Square where his body can be viewed through a glass coffin on display at irregular times. Usually there is a fast moving line leading up to it if it is open. To the west of the Square is the Great Hall of the People where the Party Congress meets each year. The auditorium holds 10,000 seats and there is some wonderful reception rooms decorated for each Province in the country that may be viewed through glass windows. You may even have lunch in the ball room if you like. To the east of the Square is a wonderful Museum on the history of the revolution which many people overlook. Across the street of course is the Forbidden City and for an extra cost you can go up on the Entrance Gate above Mao's large picture for a great view of the whole Square where I took this photo from.  Before and after October 1st the Square is decorated in millions of flower pots with a different theme each year to commemorate the Revolution. Local people often fly kites on the Square and is a great place to mingle with the local people who often go for walks in the evenings or tourists during the day too.  Click on the photo for a full screen view!  (photo taken in 1993)