"The Beijing Central Axis is a carrier of traditional Chinese concepts and beliefs, constructing a symbol for national order and witnessing the formation of the Chinese cultural tradition of inclusion and diversity," Lyu says.

The Beijing Central Axis provides an exceptional material testimony to the philosophy of "neutrality and harmony" prized in the Chinese tradition. It is an outstanding example representing the mature stage of the urban central axis of Chinese capitals, and also the best-preserved capital central axis in China, according to the National Cultural Heritage Administration of the PRC.