Reservations required?

Question

Do we have to make reservations to access Tiananmen Square and/or Temple of Heaven?

Answer

For most visitors, Tiananmen Square itself does not require a reservation to enter the public areas. You can walk around freely, but if you want to enter the Mausoleum of Mao Zedong located within the square, you do need to book tickets in advance, as it has strict security checks and limited daily capacity.

The Temple of Heaven, which is a large park and temple complex, also does not require a reservation for general entry. You can purchase tickets on the spot for the Temple of Heaven Park and the main halls inside. However, if you want guided tours or access to certain special areas within the complex, some tour services may recommend or require booking in advance.

Additional Tips:

Arrive early in the morning to avoid long security lines, especially at Tiananmen Square if you plan to enter the Mausoleum.
Bring your passport, as it is required for entry to both sites.
Weekends and public holidays can be very busy, so planning ahead and checking for any online ticketing options is helpful, particularly for the Mausoleum.

In summary, casual visits to the open areas of Tiananmen Square and Temple of Heaven do not require reservations. Reservations are only necessary for specific attractions like Mao’s Mausoleum or organized guided tours.

Reservations required?

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