总理各国事务衙门建筑遗存, Historical government building in Dongcheng District, China.
The Zongli Yamen is a 19th-century government building complex in Beijing that housed administrative offices and reception halls combining traditional Chinese architecture with Western design elements. The site features multiple courtyards and interconnected rooms arranged in the style typical of imperial institutions from that period.
This institution was established in the mid-19th century as China's first formal foreign affairs office during the Qing Dynasty. It played a crucial role in managing diplomatic relations and treaty negotiations during a transformative period for the empire.
The complex reflects a moment when Chinese architectural traditions encountered Western building styles and design principles. Walking through the spaces, you notice how local craftsmen blended features from both approaches.
The site is located in central Beijing and is easily accessible by public transportation, with metro and bus lines nearby. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended since you will explore multiple buildings and courtyards across the grounds.
Several rooms within the complex remain intact and display the original layout of administrative offices and negotiation spaces where treaties were discussed. Visitors can sense the weight of decisions that shaped modern China in these preserved spaces.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.