Exploring the grand Forbidden Palace Museum was truly one of the highlights of our trip to Beijing.
As one of the most iconic tourist attractions in the city, it offers a glimpse into life in the Forbidden City during the Ming and Qing Dynasties, showcasing the opulence and power of China’s imperial past.
Overview
The Forbidden Palace, also known as the Forbidden City, is a sprawling complex of nearly 1,000 buildings, all enclosed by massive defensive walls and a wide moat.
We found ourselves wandering through countless courtyards, admiring the intricate architecture and the distinct layout, which was meticulously designed to reflect the power and grandeur of the Chinese emperors.
Good to Know Before Visiting the Forbidden Palace Museum
Booking tickets for the Forbidden Palace requires some planning ahead. Tickets need to be booked in advance, and the official website allows bookings up to seven days before your visit.
You can find more details and make reservations here, 7 days ahead of your visit. Forbidden City tickets can sell out quickly, so we highly recommend being ready to book as soon as they become available.
There are also reports online of visitors purchasing tickets on-site, but do keep in mind that they cap the number of daily entries at 80,000, so this isn’t always a guaranteed option. Alternatively you can pre-book your ticket via Klook or book a guided tour.
We opted to purchase tickets for all the extra exhibitions and highly recommend doing the same. Each pavilion and exhibit offers a unique perspective on the palace’s history and the lives of those who lived there.
Interestingly, some areas marketed as “extra” are free, so it makes sense to get those as well and make the most of your visit.
If you plan to explore all the exhibitions and pavilions, set aside at least 7-8 hours. It’s easily a full-day experience, and one mistake we made was underestimating the time needed to truly enjoy it.
To make the most of your visit, consider bringing some snacks and refreshments—you’ll appreciate them after hours of walking around the vast grounds.
While there are some places that sell food and drinks, they tend to be overpriced and feel like tourist traps. Our croissants with ham and cheese looked generously filled, but in reality, they lacked any real filling inside. Classic tourist trap tactic!
How to Visit the Forbidden City
Access to the Forbidden Palace can be done via Tiananmen Square, through the Tiananmen Gate, or by walking along the moat to the Meridian Gate. If you’re entering from Tiananmen Square, you simply need to show your passport at the checkpoint.
The Meridian Gate, with its imposing structure, is where the true scale of the Forbidden City starts to hit you. Once inside, we were simply astonished by the grandeur and scale of the place.
We also recommend renting an audio guide—not only does it provide interesting information, but it also comes with a map on the back, which is incredibly useful in navigating this huge site. A self-guided tour is also an option, but having some form of guide really enhances the experience.
Alternatively, especially if you couldn’t secure a ticket, buy a tour from Klook or Trip. At least in this way you get to see the Forbidden City even if it may come at a slightly higher cost.
The palace operates a one way system with the exit done in the north gate of Spiritual Valor Gate. This is an excellent opportunity to continue your visit to Jingshan Park to get those awe inspiring views of the Forbidden City.
What to See Inside the Forbidden Palace
The Forbidden Palace is much larger than we imagined—a real city within a city, designed to house the extended imperial family, each with their own “palace” (more akin to a mansion). Here are some of the highlights you can expect to see during your visit:
1. Gate of Supreme Harmony
The Gate of Supreme Harmony serves as the main entrance to the inner courtyards of the Forbidden City. This impressive structure symbolises the authority of the emperor and was historically used for grand ceremonies.
The gate opens to a spacious courtyard featuring the beautiful Golden Water Bridges, which span a series of small, decorative canals known as the Golden Water River.
These five marble bridges were symbolic of the emperor’s supreme authority and represented the five Confucian virtues, adding both practicality and beauty, enhancing the grandeur of the entrance.
2. Hall of Supreme Harmony
The Hall of Supreme Harmony is the largest hall in the Forbidden City. It was used for major state occasions, such as the emperor’s enthronement and birthday celebrations. The intricate golden throne and ornate carvings reflect the immense power of the emperor.
3. Hall of Central Harmony
Located just behind the Hall of Central Harmony, the Hall of Middle Harmony served as a place where the emperor could rest and prepare for ceremonies. Its more intimate size provided a quiet retreat amidst the grandeur.
4. Hall of Preserving Harmony
The Hall of Preserving Harmony was used for final imperial examinations during the Qing Dynasty and also hosted banquets and rehearsals for important ceremonies. The hall’s elevated platform offers a commanding view of the surrounding courtyards.
5. Palace of Heavenly Purity
The Palace of Heavenly Purity was the emperor’s main residence during the Ming and early Qing Dynasties. It is the largest of the inner court palaces and features a grand throne room, richly decorated to reflect the significance of the emperor’s living quarters.
6. Palace of Earthly Tranquillity
Originally the residence of the empress, the Palace of Earthly Tranquillity later became a site for ceremonial purposes, especially during imperial weddings. Its distinctive red and gold decorations symbolise happiness and prosperity.
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7. Imperial Garden
The Imperial Garden lies at the northernmost end of the Forbidden City and served as a tranquil retreat for the imperial family. With ancient trees, rockeries, and beautiful pavilions, the garden’s carefully arranged layout provides a serene escape from the formal palace buildings.
8. Side Palaces
The Side Palaces are a series of smaller but significant buildings that housed various members of the imperial family and important officials.
These palaces were not merely living quarters; they also served as administrative and ceremonial spaces. Each side palace had its own unique architectural style and purpose, reflecting the rank and status of its occupants.
Many of these palaces feature beautifully decorated halls, gardens, and courtyards that provide an insight into the daily life of the extended royal family and their retinue.
Some notable side palaces include the The Hall of Imperial Supremacy, the Chamber of Joyful Longevity, and the Palace of Extending Happiness, each offering a fascinating glimpse into different aspects of imperial culture and tradition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can You Go Inside the Forbidden City?
Yes, you can visit many areas inside the Forbidden City. Some parts require special tickets, such as the additional exhibitions.
Can you visit the Forbidden City without an advance ticket?
Technically, yes, but with the cap of 80,000 daily tickets, it’s risky to rely on purchasing at the gate.
How to Visit the Forbidden City?
The official website for Forbidden City tickets is the best place to start your planning. Booking in advance is essential, and we found it to be a straightforward process. You can book up to seven days ahead, and the tickets often sell out quickly, especially during peak seasons.
Where is the Forbidden City Located?
The Forbidden City is located at the heart of Beijing, right next to Tiananmen Square. It is incredibly accessible, whether you choose to walk or take public transport.
Who Built the Forbidden City?
The Forbidden City was constructed during the Ming Dynasty, commissioned by Emperor Yongle in the early 15th century. Understanding who built the Forbidden City adds depth to the experience, as you see the legacy of craftsmanship and vision that has stood the test of time.
Final Thoughts
Visiting the Forbidden Palace was an awe-inspiring experience, one that transported us back to the imperial era of China.
Just remember to plan ahead, take your time, and enjoy every moment within these ancient walls.
Ready to book? Below are some recommendations to get your trip started:
- Flights – we use flight aggregators such as Skyscanner and Google flights to find the best options. You can find more information about finding cheap flights here.
- Accommodation – would recommend booking your accommodation through an aggregator such as Booking.com, Trip.com or Agoda to get the best rates. We also use TripAdvisor to read reviews.
- Transport – consider Rentalcars.com for car renting or if you rely on public transport, you can use Omio for trains, coaches, ferries, airport transfers and even flights.
- Activities – a great option is GetYourGuide, Klook or Viator for tours, excursions, experiences and tickets to many tourist attractions.
- Travel money – we have Starling Bank accounts (UK residents only) with 0% fees on FX and a good Mastercard exchange rate. Revolut is another good option.
- Internet abroad – with Airalo or Nomad you can access a wide range of eSIMs (digital SIM cards) available for different countries and regions.
- Luggage storage – if you need to store your bags whilst exploring the destination, you can use Radical Storage to find your closest luggage storage and enjoy your journey until the very end.
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