Running from Yongding Gate in the south to the Bell and Drum Towers in the north, the Beijing Central Axis is the historical backbone of China's capital. Inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2024, the 7.8-kilometer route links a remarkable ensemble of imperial palaces, ceremonial buildings, royal gardens, and historical public spaces that have shaped Beijing's layout for centuries. More than a collection of historical landmarks, the Central Axis offers a journey through the city's history, architecture, and everyday life, revealing how imperial planning continues to shape modern Beijing.
