In this complete guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to explore the Forbidden City with ease. From ticket details to insider tips, here’s how to visit the Forbidden City and make the most of your trip.
The Forbidden City is one of Beijing’s most iconic landmarks. This vast imperial palace complex offers a glimpse into China’s rich history and culture. For foreign tourists, visiting the Forbidden City is an unforgettable experience, but planning a trip can be overwhelming.
1. A Brief History of the Forbidden City
Before we dive into the details of how to visit the Forbidden City, it’s essential to understand its historical significance. Built in the early 15th century during the Ming Dynasty, the Forbidden City served as the imperial palace for 24 emperors over nearly 500 years.
The name “Forbidden” refers to the fact that ordinary citizens were not allowed to enter. Today, this UNESCO World Heritage site is open to visitors, showcasing China’s impressive architecture and imperial treasures.
2. How to Get to the Forbidden City
Subway: The most convenient way to reach the Forbidden City is by subway. Take Line 1 and get off at Tiananmen East or Tiananmen West station. Both stations are within walking distance of the Forbidden City’s entrance.
Bus: There are several bus routes that pass near the Forbidden City. You can check the local bus map or use a navigation app to find the most convenient bus route for your location. Look for buses that stop at Tiananmen Square or the Forbidden City.
Getting to Tiananmen East Station, take bus number：1, 120, 2, 52, 82, Night 1, Sightseeing Double-Decker Bus 1, and Sightseeing Double-Decker Bus 2.
Taxi or Ride-Hailing: Taxis are widely available in Beijing, and you can simply hail one and ask the driver to take you to the Forbidden City (故宫, gùgōng) or show them the address in Chinese characters. Alternatively, you can use ride-hailing apps such as Didi or Meituan to book a taxi or private car to take you directly to the entrance.
Bicycle: Beijing has a well-developed bicycle-sharing system, and you may find bike stations near the Forbidden City. Consider renting a bike and riding to the entrance if you prefer a more active mode of transportation.
Walking: If you are staying in the city center or nearby areas, you can also walk to the Forbidden City. It is located just north of Tiananmen Square, making it within walking distance from popular tourist areas like Wangfujing Street or the Tiananmen Square subway stations.
When using public transportation, it’s advisable to have the name of the Forbidden City written in Chinese characters or have a map with the location marked to help communicate with taxi drivers or ensure you are on the correct bus or subway route.
3. Best Time to Visit the Forbidden City
When planning how to visit the Forbidden City, timing is crucial. The palace can get crowded, especially during weekends, holidays, and peak tourist season (April to October). For a more peaceful experience, try to visit on a weekday and arrive early in the morning. The gates open at 8:30 AM, and arriving early allows you to avoid the largest crowds.
The best time of year to visit is either spring or autumn when the weather is mild. Summers in Beijing can be hot and humid, while winters are cold, which may make the outdoor portions of the palace less enjoyable.
4. Forbidden City Tickets and Opening Hours
You can buy tickets online through the official website of the Palace Museum or through various travel agencies and ticketing platforms.
Note: Forbidden City is closed for the entire day every Monday ( except Chinese national public holidays).
How to Book your ticket online?
To book tickets to the Palace Museum, you can take the following steps:
Visit official channels: You can make an appointment on the Palace Museum’s official website or through its official Wechat mini program.
Fill in the information: During the booking process, you need to fill in your name, ID number and other information, and select the date and time you want to visit;
Book 7 Days in advance: The Palace Museum does not offer same-day tickets, so it is recommended that you make a reservation at least 7 Days in advance;
Check ticket details: Find out the ticket price (watch Hall, Treasure Hall and exhibition reservation) and whether a reservation is required, please refer to the booking page.
Use a valid ID: You are required to bring the original valid ID used at the time of booking to check in on the day of the visit.
Refund Policy: If you need to cancel the ticket, it should be handled through the original booking channel before 24:00 on the day before the visit, otherwise it may be counted as the number of cancellations.
Note: Please note that unused tickets can be refunded before 24:00 on the day before the visit, but not after 20:00 on the day of the visit.
If you have any questions or special circumstances, you can contact the Palace Museum ticketing service at 010-86489090, open from 08:00 to 20:00 (all year round).
| April 1st – October 31 ( 8:30 – 17:00 ) | Entrance ticket: 60 yuan/person |
| November 1st – March 31 (8:30 – 16:30) | Entrance Ticket: 40 yuan / person |
| Some exhibits within the complex | Treasure Gallery :10 yuan Clock and Watch Gallery:10 yuan |
5. Must-See Attractions in the Forbidden City
The Forbidden City spans over 980 buildings, but several key attractions are absolute must-sees during your visit. First, the Hall of Supreme Harmony stands at the heart of the complex. This grand hall, the largest wooden structure in China, was where emperors held important ceremonies, such as coronations and royal weddings. Its massive scale and intricate roof details symbolize the emperor’s supreme power.
Next, don’t miss the Hall of Central Harmony and the Hall of Preserving Harmony, which were used by the emperor for rehearsing and preparing for ceremonies. These halls sit on the central axis of the palace and are breathtaking examples of Ming and Qing Dynasty architecture.
The Palace of Heavenly Purity was the residence of the emperors in the Ming Dynasty, while the Palace of Earthly Tranquility housed the empresses. These palaces offer a more intimate look into imperial life.
Lastly, take time to explore the Imperial Garden at the northern end of the complex. With ancient trees, rockeries, and beautifully designed pavilions, this tranquil space contrasts with the grandeur of the palace buildings. The Treasures Gallery, filled with rare artifacts, is another must-visit, showcasing the wealth of China’s imperial history.
6. Recommended Palace Tour Routes
Navigating the vastness of the Forbidden City can be daunting, but following a well-planned route will help you see the best it has to offer without feeling overwhelmed. The most common and efficient route starts at the Meridian Gate (the southern entrance) and follows the central axis of the palace, taking you through the key halls and courtyards.
This route allows you to explore the main highlights such as the Hall of Supreme Harmony, the Hall of Central Harmony, and the Hall of Preserving Harmony. These structures represent the heart of imperial power and are perfect for first-time visitors.
For a more comprehensive experience, plan to spend at least 3 to 4 hours. This extended tour will take you through additional attractions, such as the Palace of Heavenly Purity and the Palace of Earthly Tranquility, which provide a deeper insight into the daily life of the emperor and empress.
For those with limited time, a shorter 2-hour tour can focus on the major halls along the central axis, leaving out the side palaces and galleries. Regardless of your chosen route, be sure to finish at the Gate of Divine Might (Gate of Divine Proweress) at the northern end, where you can visit Jingshan Park for stunning panoramic views of the Forbidden City.
7. Forbidden City Tours and Self-Guided Visits
When deciding how to visit the Forbidden City, consider whether to join a guided tour or explore on your own. Guided tours are available and provide in-depth information about the history and significance of the palace. Many foreign tourists find this option helpful, as it offers valuable insights that might be missed on a self-guided visit.
Ho.wever, if you prefer exploring at your own pace, a self-guided tour is also an excellent option. Audio guides are available in multiple languages and can be rented at the entrance. This allows you to tailor your experience and spend more time at the sites that interest you most.
8.Eating Places inside the Forbidden City
The Forbidden City in Beijing is primarily a historical and cultural site, so with a limited choice of restaurants or eateries inside. However, there are plenty of eating options available just outside the Forbidden City, in the surrounding areas. Here we’d like to introduce you some eating and drinking places within the ground as well as outside the Forbidden City. Check out Eating Places in Forbidden City for more information.
There are some places to eat in the Forbidden City, more convenient than before, such as Ice Cellar Restaurant, Palace Museum Restaurant, and the Corner Tower Cafe outside the Palace Museum Shenwu Gate, etc.
The food in these eateries is just basic. When traveling to the Forbidden City, you are recommended to bring water and biscuits and other necessities in case of emergency.
9. Foreign Visitors Need a Passport to Enter the Forbidden City
Foreign visitors need a passport to enter the Forbidden City. Foreign tourists are required to provide the original passport and a passport photo at the ticket checkpoint, where staff will manually enter the passport number for verification.
If foreign tourists do not have their original passport, they can provide a photo of the passport at the ticket checkpoint, and the staff will manually input the passport number for verification.
If foreign tourists forget to bring their passport or ID card while visiting the Forbidden City, they can report this at the police car station and provide the relevant document number for verification. Additionally, other tourist attractions in Beijing may also require a passport or other valid identification, so it’s recommended to carry your passport with you to avoid any unnecessary trouble.
10. Forbidden City Travel Advice for Foreigners
When planning how to visit the Forbidden City, it’s helpful to keep a few cultural considerations in mind. The Forbidden City is not just a tourist attraction but also a cultural symbol of China’s imperial past. Be respectful of the site by following the rules, not touching artifacts, and avoiding loud behavior.
Additionally, English signage inside the palace is limited, so having a map or guidebook in your language can be useful. If you’re unfamiliar with Chinese history, reading up on the Forbidden City beforehand will deepen your appreciation of the site.
11. What to Know Before Visiting the Forbidden City
Before you visit the Forbidden City, there are a few important things to keep in mind. First, be prepared for security checks at the entrance. Large bags and certain items may not be allowed inside. Also, the Forbidden City is extremely popular, so expect crowds, especially around the main halls.
Another thing to consider is the palace’s size. The Forbidden City covers 180 acres, so pace yourself and take breaks as needed. Lastly, don’t forget to check the weather forecast and dress accordingly, as much of the palace is outdoors.
You are not allowed to go back to the south gate. This is the official south-north one way travel route. So after visiting the Forbidden City, you have to exit from the north gate.
The Forbidden City is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Beijing. Its historical significance, stunning architecture, and cultural treasures make it one of the most fascinating sites in China. By following this guide, you’ll know exactly how to visit the Forbidden City and make the most of your experience. Whether you’re exploring the grand halls or strolling through the imperial gardens, a trip to the Forbidden City promises to be a highlight of your journey to Beijing.
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Eating Places inside the Forbidden City
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