Beijing - Front Gate Stock Image

Standing like some huge lost monolith at the southern end of Tian An Men Square, Qian Men, which literally translates as 'Front Gate', actually consists of two separate gates about 50 meters apart, each the size of a small castle. They used to mark the boundary between the inner and outer cities, but now one stands isolated on a traffic island, facing its counterpart across six lanes of impenetrable Beijing traffic. They look a little lost without the city wall, but remain impressive nonetheless. When open, you can ascend for a view over the square below.