Beijing on Thursday launched an exhibition that highlights the city's efforts in developing its core functional areas. Hosted by the Beijing Municipal Commission of Planning and Natural Resources, the exhibition showcases the city's development from 2020 to 2024 in urban planning, heritage preservation, public services, and smart city construction.

In August 2020, China approved a plan for developing the core area of Beijing for the 2018-2035 period, focusing on its functions of serving central administrative organs as well as the firm and stressing the orderly relief of non-capital roles. As part of this plan, the first and second phases of municipal office relocations were completed, freeing up space for optimized land use and better public access.

The exhibition highlights Beijing’s success in protecting its historical urban landscape. In July 2024, the Beijing Central Axis was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, marking a milestone in the city’s cultural preservation work. 

Important heritage sites such as the Wanchun Pavilion in the Jingshan Hill and the Temple of Heaven's Qiniandian (Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests) have been repaired. Several of these locations, including the Zhengyangmen Gate arrow tower, are now open to the public.

In addition to protecting historical monuments, the city has revised regulations to expand protection to more ancient buildings. Exhibits highlight examples like the Tongxinghe Carpentry Shop, demonstrating how architectural conservation is combined with traditional craftsmanship. To date, authorities have identified and listed over 1,056 historical buildings across the city's 11 districts.

Beyond heritage preservation, the exhibition showcases improvements to local communities. These include renovation of older residential communities, the development of specialized public services, as well as new infrastructure and transportation facilities 

In addition, the exhibition highlights how smart city technologies are shaping the future of urban governance. For example, an interactive screen in the exhibition hall shows the core functions of a digital platform for smart planning and governance. 

This exhibition will remain a permanent feature at the Beijing Planning Exhibition Hall. It is open to the public from Tuesday through Sunday each week and closed on Mondays. Visitors can reserve tickets through the official WeChat account of the Beijing Planning Exhibition Hall.