Overview
What to Expect
The Palace Museum (commonly known as the Forbidden City) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most famous imperial palaces in the world. Serving as the imperial palace for 24 emperors of the Ming and Qing Dynasties (1420-1912), it’s located in the heart of Beijing, covering 720,000 square meters with over 9,000 rooms. The palace follows strict traditional Chinese architectural principles – with red walls, yellow-glazed roofs (symbol of imperial power), and a north-south axis. Key attractions include: the Hall of Supreme Harmony (emperor’s throne hall), the Palace of Heavenly Purity (emperor’s bedroom), the Imperial Garden (royal garden), and the Palace Museum Galleries (housing 1.8+ million cultural relics, including imperial jade, porcelain, and paintings). It attracts over 19 million visitors annually, making it the world’s most visited museum – a must-see for anyone traveling to Beijing, especially for international tourists interested in Chinese imperial history and architecture.
UNESCO World Heritage Site – world's largest imperial palace, home to 24 Ming/Qing emperors (1420-1912)
Iconic red-yellow architecture – 9,000+ rooms with yellow-glazed roofs (symbol of imperial power) and red walls
1.8+ million cultural relics – including imperial jade, porcelain, paintings, and jewelry (world-class collection)
Central Beijing location – adjacent to Tiananmen Square, easy to combine with other top Beijing attractions
Rich imperial history – learn about emperor's daily life, royal ceremonies, and Chinese dynastic culture via English guides
Things to Do
- Visit the Hall of Supreme Harmony – see the imperial throne (only emperor could sit here) and learn about coronation ceremonies via English audio guides
- Explore the Inner Court – visit the emperor’s bedroom (Palace of Heavenly Purity) and empress’s palace (Palace of Earthly Tranquility)
- Tour the Palace Museum Galleries – admire world-class collections of imperial jade, Ming/Qing porcelain, and traditional Chinese paintings (English descriptions available)
- Walk through the Imperial Garden – 12,000 sq meters of royal garden with 400+ year-old trees, pavilions, and rockeries
- Exit via Shenwu Gate to Jingshan Park – climb to the top for panoramic photos of the Forbidden City’s yellow roof skyline
Suggested Itinerary
- Morning – Meridian Gate Entry & Outer Court
Enter via Meridian Gate (south gate, requires passing Tiananmen Square security). Visit the Outer Court: Hall of Supreme Harmony (emperor’s throne hall), Hall of Central Harmony, and Hall of Preserving Harmony. Learn about imperial ceremonies via English audio guides. - Midday – Inner Court & Lunch
Move to the Inner Court: Palace of Heavenly Purity (emperor’s bedroom), Palace of Union, and Palace of Earthly Tranquility. Have lunch at the Palace Museum Restaurant (try imperial dishes like “peking duck bites” and “jade tofu soup”). - Afternoon – Galleries & Imperial Garden
Visit the Palace Museum Galleries – see imperial jade, porcelain, and paintings (English descriptions available). Explore the Imperial Garden (royal garden with ancient trees and pavilions). Exit via Shenwu Gate (north gate) to Jingshan Park for panoramic views of the Forbidden City.
How to Get to The Palace Museum (The Forbidden City)
- Subway (Recommended): Take Line 1 to “Tiananmen East Station” (Exit A) or “Tiananmen West Station” (Exit B). 10-min walk to Tiananmen Square, then enter the Forbidden City via Meridian Gate. Subway ¥3-4, 20 mins from most city center hotels.
- Taxi/Didi: Taxis cannot drop you directly at the Meridian Gate. Ask to be dropped at “Tiananmen Square East” (¥20-40 from city center), then walk 10 mins to the gate. From Capital Airport: 1 hour (¥150-200).
- Walking: 5-min walk from Tiananmen Square (south) to Meridian Gate. 15-min walk from Jingshan Park (north) to Shenwu Gate.
- Important Note: You must pass security checks at Tiananmen Square (bring passport, no large bags allowed). Arrive early to avoid long lines.
Travel Tips
- Tickets (Critical): Tickets are only available online via the Palace Museum official website or WeChat (search “Palace Museum” in English). Book 7 days in advance (releases at 8 AM Beijing time). Peak season (Apr-Oct): ¥60; off-season (Nov-Mar): ¥40. No on-site tickets!
- Best time to visit: 8:30-10:00 AM (fewer crowds); weekday mornings are best. Avoid weekends, holidays, and Chinese New Year (extremely crowded).
- English services: Audio guides (¥40) available at Meridian Gate (deposit ¥200 or passport). English-speaking guides for hire (¥300-500 for 3 hours) – book in advance via Trip.com or the official website.
- Comfort tips: Wear comfortable walking shoes – you’ll walk 5-8 km. Bring water (fountains available) and snacks (no large food items). Rent a golf cart (¥300/hour) for elderly/children.
- Security: Bring your passport (required for entry). No drones, selfie sticks, or large bags (lockers available at Meridian Gate for ¥10).
FAQ
Why is it called the Forbidden City?
During imperial times, ordinary people were forbidden from entering the palace – only emperors, royal family, officials, and servants could enter. The name reflects its exclusivity in ancient China.
Can I see the imperial throne in the Hall of Supreme Harmony?
Yes! The Hall of Supreme Harmony houses the famous imperial throne (made of sandalwood and gold), which was used for important ceremonies like coronations and imperial birthdays. It’s the most iconic spot in the Forbidden City.
How early should I arrive?
Arrive 30-60 mins before opening (8:30 AM) to avoid long security lines at Tiananmen Square. This ensures you have enough time to see all key attractions before the palace closes at 5 PM (4 PM in winter).
Is the Palace Museum wheelchair accessible?
Yes, most main paths are wheelchair-friendly, and wheelchairs are available for rent at Meridian Gate (¥50/day, passport deposit required). Ramps are available at major buildings.
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