Seeing the enormity of Beijing sprawled at your feet is quite the sight. At this surprisingly fun and interactive museum, the history of the capital comes to life. Children and adults alike will be astounded by the museum's centerpiece—a complete scale model of this city of 20 million, composed of aerial photographs lit up from beneath. Another highlight is an electronic scroll painting that gives a view of the city's central north-south axis during the 1930s and 1940s, from Yongdingmen Gate in the south to the Drum and Bell Towers to the north. A number of short and entertaining films about Beijing's past, present, and future are offered. A 3D movie tells the history of the city's development, while the so-called 4D movie offers the sensation of a roller-coaster ride through a tour of future subway lines. It's easy to spend a full morning or afternoon here.
Beijing› Attraction
Beijing Planning Exhibition Hall (Beijing Guihua Bowyuguan)
Southeast corner of Tiananmen Square, 20 Qianmen Dong Lu
Our Rating
Neighborhood
Tiananmen Square
Hours
Tues–Sun 9am–5pm
Transportation
Metro: Qianmen
Phone
010/6702-4559
Prices
Tickets 30RMB, 10RMB for movies
Web site
Beijing Planning Exhibition Hall (Beijing Guihua Bowyuguan)
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.