Forbidden City: In-Depth Guide to the Imperial Palace
The Forbidden City is the world's largest and best-preserved wooden palace complex and a must-visit in Beijing. This guide provides optimal visiting routes, in-depth context, and practical tips to make your experience truly memorable.
Overview
Formerly known as the Imperial Palace (Zijincheng), the Forbidden City sits at the heart of Beijing’s central axis. Built in 1420 (the 18th year of the Yongle reign), it served as the imperial palace of the Ming and Qing dynasties. The complex covers about 720,000 m² with around 150,000 m² of buildings, comprising over seventy palaces and more than nine thousand rooms. It was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1987.
Best Visiting Time
- Season: Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) offer pleasant weather.
- Time of day: Arrive at opening (8:30) to avoid crowds and enjoy a better experience.
- Avoid: Weekends and public holidays are very crowded—choose weekdays when possible.
Recommended Route
The Forbidden City is vast. Follow the curated route below to cover the highlights efficiently without excessive walking:
Meridian Gate → Gate of Supreme Harmony → Hall of Supreme Harmony Plaza
Enter via the Meridian Gate, pass through the Gate of Supreme Harmony, and you’ll arrive at the grand plaza of the Hall of Supreme Harmony. This ceremonial area features the three main halls—Hall of Supreme Harmony, Hall of Central Harmony, and Hall of Preserving Harmony—aligned along the central axis.
Palace of Heavenly Purity → Hall of Union → Palace of Earthly Tranquility
The Inner Court’s core: the emperor’s and empress’s residential and ceremonial spaces. The Palace of Heavenly Purity served as the emperor’s residence; the Hall of Union houses the imperial seals; the Palace of Earthly Tranquility was the empress’s residence.
Imperial Garden → Gate of Divine Prowess
The Imperial Garden is the emperor’s private garden, with ancient trees and exquisite pavilions. Exit via the Gate of Divine Prowess to conclude your visit.
Recommended Experiences
Guided Tour Services
The Forbidden City offers official guided services. You can book via the Palace Museum app or rent an audio guide at the entrance. A professional guide adds rich historical and cultural context to your visit.
Special Exhibitions
Special exhibitions often showcase rare cultural relics. Check the official website or app before your visit to see current shows—don’t miss national treasures.
Cultural & Creative Souvenirs
Palace Museum–branded cultural products are beautifully designed and make great souvenirs. The store near the Cining Palace area has a wide selection.
Corner Tower Café
Take a break near the Gate of Divine Prowess at the Corner Tower Café. Enjoy coffee and snacks that blend traditional ambiance with modern comfort.
Practical Tips
- Reserve in advance: Real-name reservations are required. Book 3–7 days ahead via the official website or app, especially during holidays.
- Bring identification: You must present the ID used for your reservation at entry.
- Dress comfortably: Expect a lot of walking. Wear comfortable shoes; bring sun protection in summer and warm clothing in winter.
- Food & water: Dining inside the palace is limited and pricey. Bring snacks and water and use designated rest areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should I plan to visit?
Plan 3–4 hours for a standard visit. If you want deeper exploration or to see special exhibitions, reserve 5–6 hours.
Are there luggage storage facilities?
Yes. There are storage counters near the Meridian Gate and the Gate of Divine Prowess for large items. Traveling light is still recommended.
Can I take photos?
Photography is allowed, but disable flash—especially in exhibition halls. Some special exhibitions may prohibit photos; follow on-site notices.
