Zhongnanhai

Welcome to the most mysterious and secretive location in all of China: Zhong-nan-hai. Located just west of the Forbidden City and north of Tian-an-men Square, this sprawling 247-acre compound is the 'nerve center' of a global…

The primary public face of Zhong-nan-hai is Xin-hua Gate, the massive main entrance located on West Chang'an Avenue. Behind its bright red doors stands a large screen wall bearing the golden characters 'Wei Ren-min Fu-wu'—meaning…

In the center of the Nan-hai Lake lies Ying-tai, a small, artificial island that has served as a residence for China’s top leaders. Historically, it was where Emperor Guang-xu was famously imprisoned by Empress Dowager Ci-xi…

The West Building Compound is known as the 'operational brain' of Zhong-nan-hai. This area houses the General Office of the Communist Party and is where the day-to-day administrative work of governing the nation is conducted. …

One of the most significant buildings for the Politburo is Huai-ren-tang. This hall is the site of many important meetings and sessions. …

One of the most persistent and fascinating rumors about Zhong-nan-hai is the existence of an extensive network of secret underground passages. According to various reports and leaked construction plans, there are at least four…

In the northeast corner of the Nan-hai Lake sits the Shui-qing-yuan, which serves as the barracks for the garrison protecting the compound. These soldiers are the silent watchers of Zhong-nan-hai, stationed outside every Standing…

As you stand outside the red walls of Zhong-nan-hai, looking at the silent gates and the watchful guards, you are observing the place where China's long-term strategic visions are crafted. From Belt and Road investments to…