The Forbidden City (故宫 / 紫禁城), now the Palace Museum, is the world's largest surviving wooden palace complex, home to 24 Ming and Qing emperors over roughly five centuries. Built between 1406 and 1420, it was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987 and holds a collection of over 1.8 million imperial artworks. It sits in the heart of Beijing, directly north of Tiananmen Square.
Hall of Supreme Harmony (Taihedian): the largest surviving wooden structure in China, used for enthronements and grand state ceremonies.
The grand south-to-north central axis, from the Meridian Gate through the three great halls to the Gate of Divine Prowess.
The Inner Court palaces (Qianqing, Jiaotai, Kunning) where the emperor and empress actually lived.
The Imperial Garden (Yuhuayuan) at the northern end, with rockeries, ancient trees and pavilions.
Specialist galleries such as the Treasure Gallery and Clock Gallery, showing imperial jewels and timepieces (separate routes).
Good to know
RulesReal-name, passport-based booking is mandatory. Reserve online in advance using your passport details, then scan the same passport at the gate. No physical ticket is issued, so carry your passport and make sure the details match.
RulesOne-way visiting route: enter only through the Meridian Gate (south) and exit via the Gate of Divine Prowess (north). There is no re-entry once you leave. Confirm the latest rules when booking.
CautionBeware unofficial 'guides' and touts near the entrance selling fake or overpriced tickets, sometimes claiming a gate has 'no ticket counter.' Book only through the official website.
CautionWatch for taxi and rickshaw scams. Legitimate Beijing taxis have plates starting with '京B'; avoid unlicensed 'black cabs' and rickshaws that approach you at the north gate, and decline the 'tea house' invitations common around Tiananmen.
SeasonSpring and autumn (Apr–Jun, Sep–Nov) are most comfortable. Summer (Jul–Aug) is hot with little shade and glare off the marble, and during Chinese Golden Week holidays (Spring Festival, May Day, National Day) tickets can sell out within minutes.
SafetyA standard visit involves 3–5 km of walking across vast open courtyards. Wear comfortable shoes, bring water and snacks (on-site food is limited), and in summer arrive at opening time to beat the heat and crowds.
Practical info
Closed Mondays (except Chinese public holidays); opens 8:30. Tickets are released 7 days ahead at 20:00 Beijing time and the daily visitor cap (about 40,000) sells out fast. Admission is roughly CNY 60 in peak season (Apr 1–Oct 31) and CNY 40 in low season (Nov 1–Mar 31), but always verify current prices, hours and rules on the official site.
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