Cultural heritage preservation revitalizes Beijing’s Central Axis

Stretching 7.8 kilometers from Yongdingmen in the south to the Drum and Bell Towers in the north, Beijing's Central Axis serves as the historic backbone of the old city.

Gradually developed since the Yuan Dynasty (1271-1368), this architectural ensemble embodies ancient Chinese philosophical ideals for the layout of an ideal capital city and was officially inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2024.

Systematic preservation efforts have been undertaken to safeguard its authenticity and integrity. Supported by dedicated local legislation and multi-year action plans, authorities are engaged in targeted relic restoration, protection of landscape-view corridors, and digital monitoring of the entire heritage zone. Additionally, more heritage sites along the axis are being opened to visitors, encouraging public participation and engagement.