The Temple of Heaven is known as one of Beijing's imperial temples. It has been described as "a masterpiece of architecture and landscape design".

• Don't miss Qinian Dian (Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests). Its history dates back to 1420, but the current structure is a replica built in 1889 when the original burned to the ground.

Tiananmen Square is the fourth largest square in the world. It is the royal site of many important events in Chinese history.

• From Temple of Heaven, ride the subway Line 5 or take bus 39 to Dongdan. From there, take Subway Line 1 to Tian'anmen East. Walking about 450m to reach the place.
• To your left looms the Great Hall of the People, to your right is the National Museum -- neither worth a visit if you're pressed for time.

The Chairman Mao Memorial Hall, commonly known as the Mausoleum of Mao Zedong or the Mao Mausoleum, is the final resting place of Mao Zedong.

• From Tian'an Men Square, walk to the southern end of the Square to reach the Chairman Mao Memorial Hall.
• The Mausoleum is closed on Monday.
• There's lots of vendors in front of the mausoleum selling flowers for you to tribute to Chairman Mao.

Gate of Heavenly Peace (Tian'an Men) was the principal entry to the Imperial Palace during the Ming and Qing dynasties.

• From Mausoleum of Mao Zedong, walking to the north, taking the underpass to reach Gate of Heavenly Peace (Tian'an Men).
• Beyond Qian Men (Front Gate) you may spy the newly reconstructed Yongding Men. It's not in the same spot as the original, but it is one of the first steps in a plan to revamp the north-south axis.
• A less traditional structure is apparent to your right: The National Center for Performing Arts resembles a UFO that made an emergency landing in a pond.

The Forbidden City, the imperial palace in the heart of Beijing, is home to 24 emperors of the Ming and Qing Dynasties.

• From Gate of Heavenly Peace, continue walking to the north, through the gate to reach the Forbbiden City.
• You should allow at least 3 hours, and do not miss newly opened sights, particularly the Wuying Dian (west side) and Juanqinzhai (northeast side).