The Beijing Central Axis is located in the center of the old city of Beijing, running north-south through the old city, with a total length of 7.8 kilometers. It was first built in the 13th century and took shape in the 16th century, continuously improving over the years. After more than seven centuries, it has formed an orderly and grand urban architectural complex, witnessing the ideal city order that has influenced the construction traditions of Chinese capitals for over two thousand years. This is the Beijing Central Axis, a miracle that was officially listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site on July 27. It is not only a pride of China but also a precious treasure of all humanity. It is not only the backbone of Beijing's city but also an outstanding representative of China's ideal city order. From the northern end of the Bell and Drum Towers to the southern end of Yongdingmen, each scenic spot carries a rich history and culture, and every story stirs the heart.

The Guardian of the North: Bell and Drum Towers

The Bell and Drum Towers are two ancient buildings, one for the bell and one for the drum, standing opposite each other. They are not only guardians of time but also witnesses of history. Whenever dawn breaks or night falls, the sounds of the bell and drum will traverse the city's hustle and bustle, echoing through the ancient streets, reminding people of the passage of time and the rhythm of life. This is not just a simple timekeeping; it is a cultural inheritance, a respect and adherence to ancient traditions.

A Bridge Across Time: Wanning Bridge

Continuing south, we arrive at Wanning Bridge. This ancient bridge spans the Yuhua waterway, witnessing the hurried footsteps of countless pedestrians and the leisurely passage of boats. It is not only a passage connecting the north and south but also a bridge between history and modernity. Standing on the bridge, you can feel the tranquility and harmony that transcends time and space, as if you can hear the shouts of ancient merchants and see the bustling scenes on the canal. The existence of Wanning Bridge allows us to glimpse the prosperity and flourishing of the ancient capital.

The Gem of the Royal Garden: Jingshan

Jingshan is the highest point in Beijing, and from the top of Jingshan, the magnificent view of the entire Central Axis is in full view. From north to south, each building seems to be arranged in a certain rhythm, forming a harmonious and unified picture. Jingshan not only has beautiful natural scenery but also contains rich historical and cultural connotations. As a high ground in the imperial city, Jingshan not only witnessed the prosperity and decline of the royal family but also became a turning point in history at critical moments. In 1644, it was a tumultuous era, with internal and external troubles, and the people were suffering. The foundation of the Ming Dynasty was on the verge of collapse. The peasant army led by Li Zicheng broke through Beijing, and the last emperor of the Ming Dynasty, Emperor Chongzhen, faced an unprecedented predicament. He stood at the highest point of Jingshan, looking at the land that once belonged to him, with mixed feelings. To hold on or to give up? At that moment, he made a decision, choosing a tragic way to end it all. But the wheel of history would not stop; it continued to roll forward, bringing new dynasties, new hopes, and leaving endless reflections and emotions.

The Symbol of Imperial Power: The Forbidden City and Duanmen

Continuing south, we arrive at the Forbidden City. This royal palace from the Ming and Qing dynasties is the pinnacle of ancient Chinese architectural art. With red walls and yellow tiles, every palace and every mural reveals the majesty and luxury of the royal family. The Forbidden City is not just a palace; it is also a comprehensive representation of ancient Chinese politics, culture, and art. Here, you can feel the supreme power of ancient royalty and appreciate the profound depth of Chinese culture.

At the southern end of the Forbidden City is Duanmen. This city gate is the necessary passage to enter the Forbidden City and an important part of royal ceremonies. Duanmen, along with Tiananmen, highlights the majesty and sanctity of the royal city and palace axis buildings with its tall structure and dignified demeanor. Whenever there are major celebrations or ceremonies, Duanmen becomes the focus of attention, attracting countless gazes.

The Symbol of the Nation: Tiananmen and the Outer Golden Water Bridge

Passing through Duanmen, we arrive at Tiananmen. This magnificent building is not only the main gate of the Ming and Qing royal city but also the venue for major national celebrations and events after the founding of the new China. For China, October 1, 1949, that golden autumn day, is the most dazzling star. On that day, the five-star red flag rose for the first time in the east of the world from the Tiananmen Tower, announcing the official establishment of the People's Republic of China and opening a new era in Chinese history. Chairman Mao Zedong solemnly declared, "The Central People's Government of the People's Republic of China is established today!" This short yet powerful sentence resonated like spring thunder, shaking the hearts of every Chinese person and heralding the arrival of a new era.

The Outer Golden Water Bridge on Tiananmen Square is an important passage connecting Tiananmen and the Forbidden City. Every day, as the sun is about to rise, the soldiers of the flag-guarding team march with firm steps, walking out from under the Tiananmen Tower, crossing the Golden Water Bridge, and heading towards the flagpole. This bridge is based on the Golden Water River, with a wide and flat surface, and beautifully carved railings. Every detail reveals the exquisite craftsmanship of the artisans and the noble quality of the royal family. Standing on the bridge and looking back at the Tiananmen Tower, a sense of solemnity and sanctity arises.

The Memory of History: Tiananmen Square and Its Architectural Complex

Tiananmen Square and its architectural complex are one of the most magnificent landscapes on the Beijing Central Axis.

In the early morning light of Beijing, Tiananmen Square slowly awakens. Standing in Tiananmen Square, when the passionate melody of the "March of the Volunteers" resonates in the air, the national flag rises slowly with the national anthem, and the bright five-star red flag shines even more brilliantly in the morning light. It is not only a symbol of the nation but also the glory and dignity earned by countless martyrs with their blood and lives.

The Monument to the People's Heroes in the center of the square soars into the clouds, commemorating the great achievements of the revolutionary martyrs who bravely sacrificed for the establishment of the new China. Whenever important holidays or anniversaries arrive, people come here to lay flowers and pay tribute, remembering the heroic deeds of the martyrs.

On the north side of the square is the Chairman Mao Memorial Hall, a place to commemorate the great leader Comrade Mao Zedong. It is solemn and serious, and every person who comes here does so with a respectful heart to pay their respects to Chairman Mao's remains and express their deep remembrance of him.

In addition, the National Museum of China on the east side of the square and the Great Hall of the People on the west side are also important architectural complexes. They serve the functions of showcasing the country's historical culture and holding important meetings, making them important components of the country's political and cultural life.

The Southern Gate of the Central Axis: Zhengyangmen

Continuing south, we arrive at Zhengyangmen. This southern gate of the inner city from the Ming and Qing dynasties is one of the most important city gates on the Beijing Central Axis. It is not only a landmark building of the ancient capital but also an important transportation hub of the modern city. The grandeur of Zhengyangmen is reflected not only in its tall gate tower but also in its unique architectural style and profound cultural connotations. Whenever night falls and the lights come on, Zhengyangmen appears even more solemn and mysterious under the illumination.

The End of History and a New Beginning: Yongdingmen

Yongdingmen is the southern gate of the Beijing Central Axis and the endpoint of this historical corridor. It was built during the Jiajing period of the Ming Dynasty and has witnessed the changes and fluctuations of Beijing over the years. Yongdingmen is not only an important part of the ancient city's defense system but also a significant node at the southern end of the Central Axis. With its unique architectural style and rich historical heritage, it perfectly concludes this axis.

Standing in front of Yongdingmen and looking back at the entire Central Axis, those ancient buildings seem to tell their own stories. From the northern end of the Bell and Drum Towers to the southern end of Yongdingmen, each scenic spot carries a rich history and culture, like a string of brilliant pearls connecting a bond that transcends time and space. This bond connects not only the ancient and modern but also China and the world.

The Sacred Place of Royal Sacrifice: The Altar of Heaven and the Altar of Soil and Grain

On the east and west sides of the Central Axis stand the Altar of Heaven and the Altar of Soil and Grain, two royal sacrificial sites. The Altar of Heaven is where the emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties worshipped their ancestors, housing the tablets of emperors from various dynasties, reflecting the royal lineage system and ancestor worship. The Altar of Soil and Grain is where the emperor worshipped the gods of land and grain, praying for favorable weather and abundant harvests. These two buildings are not only grand in scale and imposing in momentum but also contain rich cultural connotations and symbolic meanings.

A Model of Harmony Between Heaven and Man: The Temple of Heaven and the Altar of Agriculture

Further south, we arrive at the Temple of Heaven and the Altar of Agriculture. The Temple of Heaven is where the emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties prayed to heaven and sought good harvests. It is praised as a "gem in the history of world architecture" due to its unique architectural style and exquisite construction techniques. The main building of the Temple of Heaven, the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, is renowned for its triple-eaved circular spire, blue glazed tile roof, and exquisite painted patterns. The Altar of Agriculture is where the emperor worshipped the god of agriculture and held plowing ceremonies. It not only has rich historical and cultural connotations but also reflects the ancient Chinese people's emphasis on agricultural production and reverence for nature.

This is precisely:

The brilliance of the Central Axis shines in the world,

The wisdom of the ancient capital illuminates the east and west.

Millennia of cultural lineage connects the past and present,

Together we protect the brilliance that dazzles the world.