Beijing’s Chairman Mao Memorial Hall is also known on google map as Mausoleum of Mao Zedong. It is one of China’s most revered landmarks, offering visitors a chance to honor the memory of Chairman Mao Zedong. To ensure a smooth experience, this guide will walk you through essential details about Chairman Mao Memorial Hall Tickets and Reservation. You’ll find everything you need, from booking methods to helpful tips for navigating the hall with ease. Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, read on to discover how to make the most of your time at this historical site.
Chairman Mao Memorial Hall Overview
The Chairman Mao Memorial Hall, also known as the Mausoleum of Mao Zedong, is located at the southern end of Tiananmen Square in central Beijing. Open to the public since 1977, it serves as the resting place of Chairman Mao, the founding father of the People’s Republic of China. For many visitors, this is a deeply meaningful experience, and the hall itself holds artifacts, exhibits, and symbols from Mao’s life.
When visiting, you’ll encounter two main floors: the first floor contains the mausoleum where Mao’s body lies in state, while the second floor houses various exhibitions on his life and accomplishments. This guide covers all you need to know about securing tickets, reservations, and the best ways to ensure a respectful and organized visit.
How to Book Chairman Mao Memorial Hall Tickets and Reservation
Reservations are mandatory to visit Chairman Mao Memorial Hall, helping to manage visitor flow efficiently. Here’s a breakdown of how to reserve your spot:
Official Online Booking: Chairman Mao Memorial Hall Online Tickets Booking
WeChat Official Account: Search “Chairman Mao Memorial Hall” on WeChat, follow the official account, and complete the reservation as prompted.
WeChat Mini Program: Open WeChat, search for “Chairman Mao Memorial Hall Reservation” under mini programs, and complete your booking here.
Booking Tips
Kind Reminder: If visitors have not reserved a separate slot for Tiananmen Square on the day of their visit, but have reservations for the Chairman Mao Memorial Hall, Great Hall of the People, National Museum of China, Forbidden City, Zhongshan Park, or the Beijing Working People’s Cultural Palace, they can use these reservations to enter Tiananmen Square directly. However, please note that this access only allows visits during the morning, afternoon, or the flag-lowering ceremony times; it does not permit viewing the flag-raising ceremony.
Reservation Process: Reservations must be made under a real name, with a valid ID or passport for verification.
Booking Window: Reservations open at 12:30 pm, six days in advance. To improve your chances of securing a ticket, especially during peak seasons or holidays, try to book within the recommended 1–6 day advance window. Refresh your screen frequently to check for available tickets, especially before 1:00 pm.
If you encounter difficulty booking, consider trying again later in the day, as cancellations or additional slots may become available. Keep in mind that Saturdays and Sundays are high-demand times; weekday reservations often have better availability.
Booking Limits: Individuals can reserve for up to five people. Guides and travel agents can book group reservations for 10 to 60 people. Limit your booking to 1–2 people per phone, as this has a higher success rate. If your group is large, try using multiple phones.
Opening Hours and Admission Fee
The Memorial Hall is open from 8:00 am to 12:00 pm, Tuesday to Sunday, and closed on Mondays. Entry is free for all visitors, reflecting the government’s intention to allow everyone to honor Chairman Mao.
However, the hall’s hours may vary on national holidays, significant commemorative dates, or special events in Tiananmen Square. Be sure to check for updates, especially if your visit falls on a notable date.
How to Get to Chairman Mao Memorial Hall
Chairman Mao Memorial Hall is centrally located on Tiananmen Square, easily accessible by public transportation. The most convenient way to reach the hall is by subway:
- Line 1: Exit at Tiananmen East Station (Exit D) and walk towards the square.
- Line 2: Exit at Qianmen Station (Exit A) and proceed north to Tiananmen Square.
Alternatively, you can take buses that stop near Tiananmen Square. Look for routes stopping at Qianmen, Tiananmen East, or Tiananmen West stations. If arriving by taxi, note that cars cannot enter the square directly, so plan to be dropped off nearby and walk a short distance to the entrance.
Chairman Mao Memorial Hall Visit Route and Viewing Process
After securing your reservation, follow these steps for a seamless visit:
- Arrival: Arrive at your scheduled time with a valid ID and your reservation confirmation.
- Security Check: Proceed to the square’s security checkpoint. Here, you’ll undergo a standard security screening.
- Deposit Room for Bag Storage: Large bags, cameras, tablets, and other items are prohibited inside the hall. You can store these items at the deposit room located on the east side of the square. Only your ID and phone (turned off) are allowed inside.
- Queue for Entry: Line up across from the deposit area. Your ID will be checked twice during the queue.
- Purchase Flowers (Optional): At the entrance, you can buy flowers for 3 RMB each as a gesture of respect.
- Enter the Hall and Pay Respects: Once inside, follow the designated path and viewing guidelines to pay your respects.
- Exit and Collect Belongings: After the viewing, exit in an orderly fashion and retrieve your stored items.
Exploring the First and Second Floors of Chairman Mao Memorial Hall
Built in 1976 and opened on September 9, 1977, Chairman Mao Memorial Hall is a solemn, colonnaded building that stands as a cube with white marble steles on its north and south facades. Each stele bears six golden characters reading “Chairman Mao Memorial Hall.”
The First Floor
Inside, the hall has two main floors. On the first floor, you enter through the northern entrance. The Northern Hall is dedicated to a memorial ceremony, where a white marble statue of Chairman Mao sits in the center, displaying a lifelike, kind expression. Behind him, a grand velvet embroidery mural, “The Land of the Motherland,” captures China’s vast landscapes.
Next, in the Hall of Mourning, Mao Zedong lies in a glass chamber, dressed in his iconic gray suit and draped with the red flag of the Communist Party, surrounded by ceremonial soldiers. Visitors split into two lines to pay respects, exiting through the Southern Grand Hall, where souvenirs are available.
The second floor
The second floor houses six memorial rooms that celebrate the revolutionary contributions of Mao and five other leaders: Zhou Enlai, Liu Shaoqi, Zhu De, Deng Xiaoping, and Chen Yun. Each room contains a white marble statue and displays personal artifacts, photos, and documents that illustrate their roles in China’s revolutionary history.
Important Notes for a Successful Visit
To make the most of your experience, remember these tips:
Plan for Extra Time: Although visiting hours end at noon, arrive early to complete security and bag storage procedures comfortably.
Expect Crowds: The hall can attract significant crowds, especially on weekends and holidays. For a quieter experience, choose a weekday.
Dress Respectfully: Modest attire is appreciated, as this is a site of reverence.
Consider the Weather: Tiananmen Square is open and often windy, so dress appropriately for the weather.
No Reservation, No Entry: You must have a reservation; joining the line without one won’t grant access.
Priority Access for Seniors and Children: Elderly visitors (70+) and children have a dedicated lane at security for easier access.
Bag Storage: This is a free, self-service area where you’ll store any restricted items.
Health and Safety Protocols: Masks are required throughout the visit. Additionally, temperature checks and a health code display may be necessary for entry.
Respectful Conduct: Keep your phone on silent, stay quiet, and remove hats as a sign of respect once inside. No photography or stopping is permitted.
Nearby Attractions: Reservations for Chairman Mao Memorial Hall also allow you entry to Tiananmen Square. Nearby sites include the National Museum of China, Forbidden City, Great Hall of the People, Qianmen Street, and the Railway Museum
Nearby Attractions
Chairman Mao Memorial Hall is situated in an area filled with other remarkable attractions:
- The Forbidden City: This UNESCO World Heritage site is just a short walk north of Tiananmen Square.
- National Museum of China: Located on the east side of Tiananmen Square, it offers extensive exhibits on Chinese history and culture.
- Great Hall of the People: The official meeting place of the National People’s Congress, just west of the square.
- Qianmen Street: A bustling commercial street south of Tiananmen Square, known for its shops and traditional Beijing charm.
- Zhongshan Park: A beautiful public park near the Forbidden City, perfect for a relaxing break.
- National Centre for the Performing Arts
These attractions are excellent options to explore after visiting the Memorial Hall, offering deeper insight into China’s rich history and culture.
In conclusion, Chairman Mao Memorial Hall Tickets and Reservation are crucial for anyone planning to visit this historic Beijing landmark. With careful planning and adherence to the hall’s guidelines, you can ensure a smooth and respectful visit. Enjoy the experience of connecting with a piece of China’s profound history.
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