The Palace Museum
- Chinese Name:北京故宫 紫禁城
- Chinese ADD:北京市东城区景山前街4号
- OPENING TIME:April 1st-October 31st: 08:20-17:00 (Stop ticket sales at 16:00, latest entry 16:10); November-March 31: 08:30-16:30
- TICKETS:60 cny/High Season(April 1st – October 31st) 40cny/(November 1st – March 31st:)
- Architecture Area:About 150,000 square meters
- Ocuppy Area:Approximately 720,000 square meters
- Time of Project implement:1421 (19th year of Ming Yongle)
- Official Website: https://en.dpm.org.cn/
- Tel: (+86) 010－85007057
- Email: gugong@dpm.org.cn
- Online Tickets Booking Official Website: https://gugong.ktmtech.cn/
- Virtual Tour: https://v.visitbeijing.com.cn/pano/3_1/index.html
- Virtual Tour: https://pano.dpm.org.cn/gugong_app_pc_en/index.html Attention:Closed every Monday
The Palace Museum
Step into Imperial Majesty: Discover Beijing’s Forbidden City
A Glimpse into China’s Imperial Past
The Forbidden City, also known as the Palace Museum, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most iconic landmarks in Beijing. Once home to 24 emperors of the Ming and Qing Dynasties, this majestic complex spans over 180 acres and boasts nearly 1,000 preserved buildings. Walking through its grand gates, you are transported into a world of imperial grandeur, where ornate architecture and intricate designs tell the story of China’s fascinating history.
Architectural Masterpiece
Marvel at the harmonious layout and stunning details of the palace, a masterpiece of traditional Chinese architecture. From the imposing Hall of Supreme Harmony, where emperors held court, to the elegant Imperial Garden, every corner of the Forbidden City exudes artistic brilliance. Vibrant red walls, golden roofs, and dragon motifs symbolize power and prosperity, creating a visual spectacle unlike any other.
A Treasure Trove of Culture and Art
The Forbidden City is not only a historical site but also a cultural gem. It houses an unparalleled collection of artifacts, including imperial robes, ceramics, jade carvings, and ancient calligraphy. These treasures offer visitors a deeper understanding of China’s rich heritage and artistic achievements.
A Glimpse into Imperial Grandeur
Built in the early 15th century during the Ming Dynasty, the Forbidden City served as the home of 24 emperors over nearly 500 years. Enclosed by a massive red wall and a shimmering moat, the palace is a stunning example of traditional Chinese architecture, with its golden roofs, intricate carvings, and imposing gates reflecting imperial power and grandeur.
Must-See Highlights
- The Hall of Supreme Harmony: The grandest building in the palace, it once hosted imperial ceremonies.
- The Imperial Garden: A serene retreat with ancient trees, rockeries, and beautiful pavilions.
- The Treasure Gallery: Home to priceless artifacts that reveal the opulence of the royal family.
Why Visit the Forbidden City?
Beyond its architectural splendor, the Forbidden City offers unparalleled insights into China’s dynastic heritage. Wander through its vast courtyards and ornate halls to imagine life as an emperor. The rich symbolism in every design element, from the number of dragon carvings to the choice of colors, reflects a fascinating blend of artistry and philosophy.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an architecture lover, or simply a curious traveler, the Forbidden City will captivate your imagination and deepen your appreciation of Chinese culture. Don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to walk in the footsteps of emperors!
Make your trip to Beijing unforgettable with a visit to this timeless marvel.
The Palace Museum Tourist Map
The Palace Museum Photo
The Palace Museum Video
Beijing The Palace Museum Tour
1 Day Forbidden City + Summer Palace Tour
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1 Day Old Beijing Heritage Walking & Tasting Tour-Route 1
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1 Day Old Beijing Heritage Walking & Tasting Tour-Route 2
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How To Get To Beijing The Palace Museum
Subway
Take Metro Line 1 and exit at Exit B of Tiananmen East Station. After passing through Tiananmen security check, walk to Meridian Gate, which takes about 15 minutes.
BeiJing metro mapThe Palace Museum Travel Guide
Beijing Palace Museum Tour
- Each ticket is RMB 60 (excluding the Treasure Hall and Watch House珍宝馆、钟表馆), the ticket for the Treasure Hall is RMB 10 per ticket, and the ticket for the Watch Museum is RMB 10 per ticket.
- The ticket sales and opening hours are 8:30. Except for statutory holidays and summer holidays (July 1 to August 31 of each year), the Palace Museum implements the measures of closing all day on Monday.
- From the Tiananmen Gate, or from Donghuamen or Xihuamen along the east and west side of the river, you can reach the gate. Entering the Forbidden City can only enter from the Wumen (South Gate)午门, and Shenwumen (North Gate)神武门 can’t get in.
- The Forbidden City only issues 80,000 tickets a day, so be sure to leave early, preferably in advance.
- Must bring an ID card or passport, because it need swiping ID card or check the verification of passport. without it,you can not go into.
- Focus on the palace on the central axis, many palaces can only be seen outside the door.
- Regarding the distribution of the restrooms, the security check at the Wumen Gate 午门 is completed. There are toilets on both sides of the front and the front of the Taihe Gate太和门. (There are not many people on weekdays.) There are also toilets at the entrance to the Sixth and Sixth Palaces. There are treasure shops and watchhouses on the East Road. There is also a lounge area in the restaurant and washroom, and there is also a washroom in the Imperial Garden..
- the best position for panorama of palace museum is jingshan park,after your exit from shenwu gate, you will see
- Electronic device tour guide: can be rented in the scenic area, with a rent of 20 yuan per unit, and returned at Shenwu Gate.
- Personal explanation: Appointment can be made on-site at Meridian Gate, providing services in multiple languages such as Chinese, English, Japanese, etc. The explanation time ranges from 2-5 hours.
- The Hall of Supreme Harmony: The highest level building in the Forbidden City, it is the place where the emperor holds major ceremonies such as coronation and weddings.
- Qianqing Palace: There is a plaque with the words “Zhengda Guangming” inside, which is a witness to the secret storage system of the Qing Dynasty.
- Treasure Hall: Located in the Ningshou Palace area, it houses numerous royal treasures such as the Jinou Yonggu Cup and Diancui Fengguan, as well as the Zhenfei Well and the Nine Dragon Wall.
- Yanxi Palace: It has the unfinished site of the “Western Crystal Palace” and is a unique photography location within the Forbidden City.
- Corner Tower: Located on both sides of the Shenwu Gate, it is a classic symmetrical building with stunning light and shadow effects at dusk.
Recommended Routes
Classic Half-Day Tour (3 hours)
Meridian Gate
Gate of Supreme Harmony
Hall of Supreme Harmony
Hall of Central Harmony
Hall of Preserving Harmony
Palace of Heavenly Purity
Hall of Union and Peace
Palace of Earthly Tranquility
Imperial Garden
Shenwu Gate (Exit)
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