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Big news from Beijing! Starting June 2024, the city has decided to scrap the reservation system for most of its major tourist attractions just in time for the summer travel season. This means that if you’re planning to visit iconic spots like the Summer Palace (颐和园), the Temple of Heaven (天坛), you can now just show up without worrying about booking in advance. However, do note that a few top-tier attractions, like the Palace Museum (故宫) and the National Museum of China (中国国家博物馆), still require reservations.
In this article you will find:
Why the Change?
The main reason behind this change is to boost tourism and make it more convenient for visitors. The pandemic had a significant impact on the tourism industry, and Beijing is keen to welcome back tourists with open arms and fewer hurdles. By eliminating the need for reservations, the city aims to enhance the overall visitor experience and make spontaneous trips more feasible.
What You Need to Know
- No Reservation Needed: Most tourist sites including the Summer Palace (颐和园) and the Temple of Heaven (天坛).
- Still Requires Reservation: A few top-tier attractions such as the Palace Museum (故宫) and the National Museum of China (中国国家博物馆).
- Best Time to Visit: While Beijing offers unique experiences year-round, the best months to visit are September to October. During these autumn months, you’ll enjoy pleasant temperatures, clear skies, and the stunning fall foliage in the city’s many parks and historical sites. Spring (April to May) is also a great time to visit, with blooming flowers and mild weather making outdoor exploration delightful. However, summer can be quite hot and humid, so it’s less ideal for comfortable sightseeing.
Detailed Reservation Requirements
While most sites are now open without prior booking, here’s a handy list of those that still require reservations, along with how to book them:
- Palace Museum (故宫): Use the WeChat mini-program “Palace Museum”. Reservations open seven days in advance from 20:00.
- National Museum of China (中国国家博物馆): Book through their WeChat mini-program, official website, or app. Reservations open seven days in advance at 17:00.
- Tian’anmen Square (天安门广场): Available on various platforms including WeChat and Alipay mini-programs. Individuals can book from one to nine days in advance.
- Tian’anmen Rostrum (天安门城楼): Reservations can be made one to seven days in advance via their website and WeChat mini-programs.
- Chairman Mao Memorial Hall (毛主席纪念堂): Use the official WeChat account or mini-program, with bookings available one to six days in advance.
- The Great Hall of the People (人民大会堂): Book through the WeChat mini-program “Great Hall of the People Reservation” one to three days in advance.
- Military Museum of the Chinese People’s Revolution (中国人民革命军事博物馆): Reservations can be made up to eight days in advance using the “Military Museum” mini-program.
- National Natural History Museum of China (中国自然博物馆): Individual bookings are available one to three days in advance via the official website and WeChat account.
- Chinese Archaeological Museum (中国考古博物馆): Book three days in advance using the WeChat mini-program “Chinese Archaeological Museum”.
- Capital Museum (首都博物馆): Reservations can be made one to seven days in advance via the WeChat mini-program “Capital Museum”.
- Beijing Police Museum (北京警察博物馆): Use the WeChat mini-program “Beijing Police” to book one to three days in advance.
- Beijing Lu Xun Museum (北京鲁迅博物馆): Book up to three days in advance using the WeChat mini-program “Beijing Luxun Museum”.
- Museum of the War of Chinese People’s Resistance Against Japanese Aggression (中国人民抗日战争纪念馆): Reservations within three days via the WeChat mini-program.
- Children’s Library, National Library of China (中国国家图书馆少儿馆): Book up to three days in advance via the official WeChat account “National Library Service”.
- Peking University (北京大学): Reservations open seven days in advance using the WeChat mini-program “Visit Peking University”.
- Tsinghua University (清华大学): Book slots one day in advance for weekdays, and seven days in advance for weekends and holidays via the WeChat mini-program “Visit Tsinghua University”.
Below is an example of making a reservation for the Palace Museum using the WeChat mini program.
Search for “gugong” in the top search bar of WeChat.
Click on the “购票约展” option at the bottom, which also means making a reservation.
In the newly opened mini program, continue to click on “购票约展”
(The Palace Museum allows reservations up to seven days in advance, with reservations opening at 8 PM every evening. Currently, it’s very difficult to secure a spot, so set an alarm and have your passport information ready…).
Tips for Your Visit
- Early Birds Get the Best Views: While you no longer need a reservation, popular sites can still get crowded. Try to visit early in the morning to enjoy a more peaceful experience.
- Check for Special Events: Some sites might have special events or temporary exhibits that could still require a ticket. It’s always a good idea to check their official websites (or official Wechat mini-programs) beforehand.
- Stay Hydrated: Beijing’s summer can be quite warm, so carry water and stay hydrated as you explore the city.
With these changes, your trip to Beijing just got a lot easier and more flexible. So pack your bags, get your cameras ready, and enjoy the rich history and vibrant culture of Beijing without the hassle of reservations.
For more travel information about Beijing, stay tuned to our website for updates. You can also check out the Promotional Centre of Beijing Municipal Bureau of Culture and Tourism for additional details.
Safe travels and happy exploring!
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Chat soon!
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