Gate of Heavenly Peace

This is one of the most important features of what was formerly known as the Imperial City. A portrait of General Mao, Chinese communist hero, now stands mounted above the central door via which the Chinese emperor in ancient times would enter through. This gate is especially famous since it is the site where in 1949 Mao declared China to be the People’s Republic of China. The columns are beautiful, lions stand atop it wreathed with dragons and clouds. Passing through the gate, one is at Tiananmen Square built by Mao- the largest of its kind the world over. Be sure to look at the beautiful four lions on each of its 4 corners.

Address: North of Tiananmen Square