Explore Tiananmen, Forbidden City, and Temple of Heaven to experience Beijing's historical culture.

Day 1: Journey through Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City With the first ray of morning sunlight shining on Tiananmen Square, I embarked on this journey through time. The majestic Tiananmen Gate Tower, with its fluttering red flags, made me feel as if I could hear the echoes of history and sense the solemnity and splendor of the past. Passing through Tiananmen, I entered the deep courtyards of the Forbidden City. The red walls and yellow tiles, the grandeur and opulence, exuded royal majesty and luxury at every turn. Walking among the Hall of Supreme Harmony, Hall of Central Harmony, and Hall of Preserving Harmony, I felt as if I had traveled back to the Ming and Qing dynasties, becoming a part of that era. The Treasure Gallery and Clock and Watch Gallery of the Forbidden City were eye-opening, and the exquisite artifacts and superb craftsmanship filled me with admiration for the wisdom of ancient artisans. Travel Tip: The most convenient way to reach Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City is by subway. Both Tiananmen East Station and Tiananmen West Station are adjacent to the square, and the Forbidden City is located on the north side of Tiananmen Square, within walking distance. Beijing's extensive subway network covers almost all major attractions, making it the preferred choice for tourists. Day 2: The Tranquility and Reflection of the Temple of Heaven On the second day, I visited the Temple of Heaven, an ancient sacrificial site that seems to be a microcosm of time, quietly telling stories of the past. The outline of the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests stood solemn and mysterious against the blue sky and white clouds, with its glazed tiles reflecting brilliant colors in the sunlight. Walking slowly along the Danbi Bridge, I felt a sense of tranquility and harmony. The Echo Wall and Circular Mound Altar left me in awe, showcasing the perfect blend of ancient wisdom and craftsmanship. Travel Tip: To reach the Temple of Heaven, you can take subway line 5 to Tiantan East Gate Station or subway line 8 to Tianqiao Station and then walk to the site. The area around the Temple of Heaven is well-served by public transportation, making it easy to reach by bus or taxi. Additionally, when talking about Beijing, one cannot miss Beijing Roast Duck. Its crispy skin and tender meat, with a glossy red appearance, leave a lasting impression. When savoring roast duck, try the traditional way of eating it: wrap the duck slices in a thin pancake with scallions, cucumber strips, and sweet bean sauce. One bite offers a delightful combination of crispiness and savory flavors, truly a culinary delight.