Stage 9 Beijing：From Tian’anmen Square to the Forbidden City and the Great Wall
Jen Chen | 18. April 2025
Today we’re still in Beijing, but unlike yesterday, we’ll be exploring a more historical and cultural side of Beijing.
The great architect Liang Sicheng once said that the unique grandeur and order of Beijing stem from its central axis. So today, we will ride along this very axis.
Starting from Xiannong Altar, passing by the Temple of Heaven, we have arrived at the Beijing Hotel. In the early morning, the moat is especially serene. Willows sway gently on both sides, and a soft breeze ripples the surface of the water, making it glisten in the sunlight.
Riding into the sunrise, we’ve reached Chang’an Avenue, which is home to Tian’anmen Square and the majestic Tian’anmen Rostrum. Every day, countless visitors come here to take photos.
As the sun climbed higher, we continue our ride along the perimeter of the Forbidden City — from West Prosperity Gate (Xihua men), passing by the Meridian Gate (Wu men), and on to East Prosperity Gate (Donghua men). All around us are red walls and charcoal-grey tiled roofs. Sunlight dances on the golden glazed tiles. Brick by brick, tile by tile — these walls have witnessed two dynasties, three reigns, and six centuries of imperial history. Once the imperial palace, the Forbidden City now serves as a museum — and stands as a true masterpiece in architectural history. The orange igus:bike contrasts beautifully with its iconic red walls.
As the saying goes, “A man who has never been to the Great Wall shall not be considered as a hero.” After visiting the Forbidden City, we made our way to the Juyongguan Pass, which is a section of the Great Wall that is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Known as the “Most Majestic Pass under Heaven,” the Juyongguan Great Wall stretches approximately 4,142 meters, surrounded by overlapping mountain ranges, lush forests, and vibrant wildflowers in full bloom. Led by Thilo Schultes, CEO of igus Dry-Tech New Businesses & iform Mold Making, we braved the steep slopes and countless steps, and worked together to bring the igus:bike to the Great Wall, capturing a rare photo along the way.
In addition, we visited companies such as ByteDance and China ENFI, where we once again shared igus’s vision for sustainability and innovation.
Our rider: Thilo Schultes
Hi, I’m Thilo. It’s a pleasure to be here at the Great Wall, bringing igus:bike along with my colleagues. I hope that igus’ sustainability philosophy can be passed down and continue for generations, just like the Great Wall.
Map of the tour
