Tiananmen Square

Question

We booked a ticket for a tour that said it included Tiananmen Square, long story short we were disappointed to find it did not. We walked there but found out you need a ticket (rookie error not organising and relying on a tour), so can’t get in. Has anyone had any luck getting a last minute ticket ie for same day or next morning as we leave to go back home to Australia tomorrow night. Otherwise is there anywhere you can stand to at least get a photo, the security man told me there is not. I am so disappointed I stuffed up or the small details.

Answer

Tiananmen Square is one of the most iconic spots in Beijing, but accessing the main square does indeed require a ticket, which is free but must be obtained in advance from the official ticket offices. Last-minute same-day tickets can sometimes be available, but availability depends on security limits, time of day, and special events. If you are leaving tomorrow, here are some practical options and tips:

Try the official ticket counters: There is a ticket office near the square at the north side (Tiananmen East or West Gate). Tickets are free, so you can try to queue first thing in the morning to secure same-day access.
Check online options: Some official Beijing tourism websites allow you to reserve Tiananmen Square tickets online. If you have a smartphone with VPN access, you might be able to check availability and book a ticket for tomorrow morning.
Tour companies or hotel concierge: Occasionally, local tour operators or your hotel can secure a ticket quickly, especially for international tourists. It’s worth asking immediately.

If you are unable to get a ticket, there are still ways to capture photos:

Stand outside the square along Chang’an Avenue (north side of Tiananmen Square). You can get a distant view of the Monument to the People’s Heroes and the Tiananmen Gate.
Look for elevated spots along Qianmen Street or from the top floors of nearby hotels and shops which overlook the square; these can provide a good photo opportunity without entering.
Visit the nearby Tiananmen East/West Gates – you can photograph the gate itself and the square from outside fences.

Unfortunately, the security guards are strict about entry without a ticket, so walking in without one is not permitted. The best strategy is to arrive early tomorrow morning at the ticket office, or take the alternative viewpoints nearby for photos.

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