Great Hall of the People

On the western side of Tiananmen Square, the Great Hall of the People is a monumental government building used for legislative and ceremonial events. Completed in 1959, it combines traditional Chinese and Western architectural elements. Tours can include the grand auditorium and committee rooms, each designed with a distinct provincial character. Bring your passport for entry, and consider a guide if you want context for the building’s political role and history.

A landmark on Tiananmen Square

The Great Hall of the People stands on the western edge of Tiananmen Square. Completed in 1959, it was one of the Ten Great Constructions built to mark the tenth anniversary of the People’s Republic of China. The building remains a venue for legislative and ceremonial activities and is associated with the country’s national political meetings.

Its scale and position make it a defining part of the square. The architecture brings together traditional Chinese forms and Western influences, giving the building a different character from the older imperial sites nearby.

What you can see inside

Tours may take visitors through the grand auditorium and committee rooms. The rooms are designed in distinct styles associated with different provinces, so their interiors offer a sense of regional variation within the large state building. Access depends on the building’s use, and some areas may not be open during meetings or events.

A guide can provide context for the rooms and the building’s public role. Bring your passport, which is required for entry, and arrange a reservation in advance through the Great Hall of the People WeChat mini-program.