Beijing rooftops offer fresh perspective on historic Central Axis

More than 70 rooftop terraces have been opened along Beijing's Central Axis under Dongcheng district's Breeze Terrace Project, offering visitors novel ways to experience the UNESCO World Heritage Site from above the venerated alleyways.

Launched after the historic area was inscribed on the heritage list in 2024, the project has transformed existing rooftops into spaces for cultural activities, leisure, and panoramic views.

According to the district's culture and tourism promotion bureau, participating businesses saw visitor numbers rise by nearly 30 percent in 2025, with some reporting consumption growth of around the same amount. Visitors are increasingly staying longer to enjoy rooftop concerts, craft workshops, reading sessions, sunset yoga, and other assorted activities.

For visitors, the new perspective has changed the way they experience the city. "I imagined Beijing would be much busier," said Leilani from Perth, Australia. "But it was very calm, with people playing badminton. It's beautiful."

Nancy Nielsen, from Michigan in the United States, stumbled upon Pearl Club while exploring Beijing during her first visit last year. "I didn't even know there was another floor," she recalled. Since then, she has returned at least five times and recently brought two friends.

Han Wei, deputy director of the bureau, said the initiative aims to turn heritage from something people visit into something they can experience as part of everyday urban life, with more rooftop spaces and cultural programs planned in the future.

Guo Shengyang contributed to this story.