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SimpleChinaTripBooking guide for foreign visitors

Tiananmen Square reservation for foreigners

The square is free but not walk-up. Book 1–7 days ahead (new dates open daily at 12:00 Beijing time). Official path is WeChat / 京通 mini-programs with passport as ID type — hotel desks routinely book for guests without a Chinese phone.

How foreigners actually get in

  1. Decide who books: you (WeChat + passport) or hotel reception with your passport details.
  2. Open the official channel — commonly WeChat mini-program for Tiananmen Square reservation (天安门广场预约参观) or listed 京通 / Beijing apps on the TAMGW hub.
  3. Choose 个人预约 (individual), accept the notice, pick a date/time slot. Flag ceremony slots are separate (升旗/降旗).
  4. ID type = Passport. Enter the number exactly. Save QR / confirmation screenshots.
  5. On the day: arrive early for security with the same original passport.

Limits that catch visitors

Official TAMGW booking notice and reservation hub; Sep 2026 media citing noon daily refresh; foreigner guides and traveler reports on hotel-assisted booking when Chinese SMS fails. Attraction data last verified 6 Oct 2026.

Pitfalls: Showing up without a reservation; missing the 12:00 date refresh; relying on Forbidden City tickets alone; giving passport photos to random chat “helpers” instead of your hotel.

Nearby hard bookings: Forbidden City · National Museum · no Chinese phone hub.

Full Tiananmen Square guide →

FAQ

Is Tiananmen Square free?

Yes — but you still need a free real-name reservation 1–7 days ahead.

When do new dates open?

Available dates update daily at 12:00 Beijing time (noon). Peak holiday flag-ceremony slots go fast.

I have no Chinese phone number — what now?

Ask your hotel front desk (or a friend) to book the WeChat mini-program with your passport details. Official PC portals often demand Chinese SMS.

Does a Forbidden City ticket get me into the square?

Reports conflict. Book the square separately to be safe.