Great Hall of the People

Containing 300 meeting halls, a 10,000-seat auditorium and a 5,000-seat banquet hall as well as more than 50 reception and conference lounges spread over different levels, the Great Hall of the People is truly enormous. Organised trips take place regularly and grant access to most rooms so long as nothing major is going on when you visit. And, as long as you don’t ask any awkward questions, the tour guide is happy to explain what goes on where, from the impressive Great Hall itself to the dining hall in the north of the building and the 34 halls named after the country’s 34 provinces and regions; all decorated or designed by artists and architects from that part of the country. Tickets can be bought from the East Gate. Visiting times vary greatly depending on the time of year, so call ahead.