The Past and Present Central Axis

Landmarks along the Central Axis

Sightseeing along the Central Axis

Q&A on the Central Axis

What is the first bridge along the Central Axis?

[Photo via VCG]
[Wanning Bridge]
Lying between Di'anmen and the Drum Tower, Wanning Bridge is known as the "first bridge on the Central Axis".
What is the highest landmark along the Central Axis?

[Photo via VCG]
[Jingshan Park]
Jingshan Park is on the highest terrain in the inner city of Beijing and it has influenced the overall planning and development of the urban area of the city.
What is the best sightseeing spot along the north-south Central Axis?

[Photo via VCG]
[Wanchun Pavilion in Jingshan Park]
Wanchun Pavilion is the highest and best sightseeing spot along the north-south Central Axis. Looking southwards, you get a panoramic view of the grand Forbidden City.
Do you know where to find the largest existing ancient building complex for offering sacrifices and rituals along the Central Axis?

[Photo via VCG]
[Temple of Heaven]
Temple of Heaven was the ritual site for emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties to offer sacrifices to the gods of heaven and pray for a good harvest. It is the largest existing and best-preserved ancient building complex used for rituals in the world.
Do you know where to find a representative city gate in Chinese ancient cities along the Central Axis?

[Photo via VCG]
[Tian'anmen]
Constructed in the Ming Dynasty, Tian'anmen is the most outstanding representative of ancient city gates in China and a national symbol of the People's Republic of China. In 1651, its name was changed from Chengtianmen to Tian'anmen, which means that the gate would receive the mandate from heaven (Tian) and pacify (An) the dynasty.
Where is the northernmost point of the Central Axis?

[Photo via VCG]
[Drum and Bell Towers]
The Drum Tower and the Bell Tower in Beijing were first built in the Yuan Dynasty and later repaired in the Qing Dynasty. Today's Drum Tower was built in the Ming Dynasty, while the Bell Tower was built in the Qing Dynasty. The Drum Tower is used as a timekeeper and the Bell Tower announces the time. There are many differences in the structure, quality, and color between the Drum Tower and the Bell Tower. However, the differences signify the fact that ancient Chinese buildings can achieve harmony in contrast. They have witnessed the development and changes of Beijing, but the areas around them have still maintained the authentic local lifestyle of this city.
Where is the southernmost point of the Central Axis?

[Photo via VCG]
[Yongdingmen]
Yongdingmen is the main entrance of the south wall of Beijing's outer city in the Ming and Qing dynasties. It is on the southernmost end of the Central Axis and the biggest gate of the outer city. Also, it is regarded as a good place to enjoy the good views of the Central Axis and the urban scenery. It is the perfect end to the 7.8-kilometer-long Central Axis.
How many bridges are located along the Central Axis?

[Photo via VCG]
[Seven]
From Yongdingmen to the Drum Tower and the Bell Tower, the long history of the city of Beijing is linked by seven ancient bridges, namely Yongdingmen Bridge, Tianqiao Bridge, Zhengyang Bridge, Golden Water Bridge, Inner Golden Water Bridge, Shenwu Bridge, and Wanning Bridge.