If you’re staying near Wangfujing, this route is a perfect way to explore Beijing’s historic center by bike or on foot. Starting from the lively Wangfujing Commercial Street, you’ll head toward the iconic Tiananmen Square, pass the grand Zhengyangmen Arrow Tower, and continue into the nostalgic hutongs of Dashilar before finishing at the artistic Liulichang Cultural Street.
This journey connects Beijing’s modern pulse and imperial past, offering a glimpse into how the city’s history and daily life intertwine. Along the way, enjoy authentic street food at Xianyukou, admire ancient architecture along the Central Axis, and capture the city’s timeless charm through every turn.
Whether walking or cycling, this route reveals Beijing’s living story — one street at a time.
If you’re staying near Wangfujing, you’re in the perfect spot to start exploring historic Beijing. The area is always full of life — there are luxury hotels, big malls, and snack stalls selling tanghulu (candied hawthorn), jianbing (crispy pancakes), and other local favorites.
Start your journey early in the morning when the street is still calm, because it gets busy later. Grab breakfast from a small vendor tucked into the side alleys, and then continue south. The noise and bright lights fade, and the charm of the old imperial city slowly appears.
Tip: Take a short detour to Wangfujing Cathedral (St. Joseph’s Church) for a peaceful moment under its tree-lined square — it’s quiet and refreshing before your adventure continues.
From Wangfujing, head west and then south — just a short ride or 15-minute walk — and you’ll arrive at Tiananmen Square, one of the largest and most historically significant public squares in the world.
You’ll be surrounded by monumental landmarks:
Take your time to appreciate the vastness of this space — and if possible, witness the flag-raising ceremony at sunrise or lowering at sunset, two deeply moving traditions that define Beijing’s rhythm.
⚠️ Important Reminder: Advance booking is required to enter Tiananmen Square. You can use WeChat app and search for the mini-program “Tiananmen Square Reservation for Visit” (天安门广场参观预约) or register online via Beijing Tourism’s official site
Continue south across Tiananmen Square, and then you’ll reach Zhengyangmen (Qianmen Gate) — one of Beijing’s most famous gates and the southern entrance to the Imperial City.
Right beside it stands the Zhengyangmen Arrow Tower (正阳门箭楼). Its gray bricks and traditional eaves rise proudly over the Central Axis and Tiananmen Square. Step inside and explore, because the exhibitions show how Beijing’s ancient walls and defenses once protected the city’s heart.
⚠️ Booking Reminder: Please note that Zhengyangmen & the Arrow Tower are open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and entry must be booked in advance via the official WeChat mini program “北京中轴线遗产保护中心.” Be sure to reserve your spot at least one day ahead.
🏯 Fun Fact: “Zhengyangmen” means “Gate of the Sun,” symbolizing prosperity and new beginnings for the capital.
To learn more about this ancient alignment of landmarks, check out our Central Axis UNESCO Guide
From Zhengyangmen, continue south into Dashilar, one of Beijing’s oldest hutong neighborhoods. Dashilar is full of hidden gems — traditional courtyard shops selling silk, tea, calligraphy brushes, and old-style shoes alongside modern cafés and art boutiques.
Just around the corner lies Xianyukou Food Street (鲜鱼口美食街) — a must-visit for food lovers. This alley has been serving local delicacies for centuries, and today it’s a haven for both traditional and modern Beijing snacks.
Don’t miss:
🍜 Tip: Visit in the late afternoon or evening when the neon signs light up, the air fills with the aroma of grilled skewers, and locals gather for dinner.
You can find even more tasty hutong eats in our full Beijing Street Food Guide
After filling up at Xianyukou, head west toward Liulichang Cultural Street, because it’s your final stop and one of the most beautiful parts of old Beijing. Liulichang is known as the cultural soul of the city, and it’s full of antique shops, calligraphy studios, and art galleries that have thrived since the Ming dynasty.
Here, you can browse ancient books, hand-painted fans, and traditional art supplies. The gray-brick walls and red pillars create a calm, nostalgic feeling, so it’s the perfect place to slow down and end your adventure.
🎨 Don’t miss: Stop by one of the calligraphy shops to watch local masters write Chinese characters using traditional ink and brush — it’s mesmerizing.
Route: Wangfujing → Tiananmen Square → Zhengyangmen & Arrow Tower → Dashilar → Liulichang Cultural Street
Distance: ~6 km (easy to moderate)
Time: 2–3 hours at a relaxed pace
Best for: Walking and short bike rides
Best time to go: Morning or late afternoon for soft light and fewer crowds.
If you’re visiting Beijing in late autumn or winter, pick a clear, sunny day — the crisp air and golden light make the old streets especially beautiful. Dress warmly and wear comfortable shoes for walking.
Tip: Visit on a weekday if possible, as this route — especially Tiananmen Square and Zhengyangmen — can get quite busy on weekends. Zhengyangmen & the Arrow Tower are open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, so plan your visit earlier in the day to explore inside before continuing to Dashilar.
This route takes you through the heart of old Beijing, connecting the city’s most meaningful sites — from bustling Wangfujing to the solemn Tiananmen Square, from majestic Zhengyangmen to the cozy alleys of Dashilar and Liulichang.
It’s not just a sightseeing route — it’s a journey through time.
So whether you’re exploring on two wheels or on foot, take it slow, look around, and let Our Beijing guide you through the city’s living history — one street, one snack, and one story at a time.
👉 Ready to explore more? Discover more hidden adventures in our Our Beijing Experience Collection