This is where we begin with the big picture of Beijing.

Through maps, models and exhibitions, you’ll learn about the city’s geography, the Central Axis, Beijing’s historic appearance around 1949, the Forbidden City, the former city walls and defensive system, traditional courtyard houses and their gate hierarchy, and the city’s modern development.

It offers a valuable introduction to Beijing as a whole, helping you better understand the city before exploring its individual sites during the rest of your stay.

At Zhengyangmen Gate, the main southern gate of Beijing’s former Inner City, you’ll understand its important role on the Central Axis and how the gate and Arrow Tower evolved over time.

We’ll also look at the Zhengyang Bridge Archway and the spatial relationship between Zhengyangmen Gate and Qianmen Street, historically a key approach into the Inner City.

At the Zhengyang Bridge archaeological exhibition, you can also see the water-calming beast uncovered beneath the former bridge, offering a rare glimpse into the area’s archaeological history.

We’ll also walk along part of Qianmen Street, a historic commercial pedestrian area where many time-honored Chinese brands are still active today. Along the way, you can experience how Beijing’s traditional commercial culture continues in the present, with optional stops for local snacks or souvenirs if you’re interested.

Dashilar was one of Beijing’s most important commercial districts during the Qing dynasty. Here, you’ll see many buildings that blend traditional Chinese and Western architectural styles, and learn why such forms appeared in the heart of old Beijing.

The area is also home to many time-honored brands, including Ruifuxiang, Tongrentang and Neiliansheng. We’ll step inside selected shops to explore traditional crafts, commercial culture and living intangible heritage through their in-store exhibitions.