Forbidden City Wheelchair Accessible: Paths & Toilets

Welcome to Beijing! The Forbidden City, a 600-year-old imperial palace, may seem daunting for wheelchair users at first. But thanks to major accessibility upgrades in recent years, it’s now more welcoming than ever.

This Forbidden City Accessible Travel Guide offers practical tips and a smooth path through history—designed especially for travelers exploring the Forbidden City in a wheelchair. Discover how to experience this vast, iconic landmark with comfort, ease, and confidence.

1. An Overview of Forbidden City Accessible Paths & Restrooms

For visitors exploring the Forbidden City in a wheelchair, the central axis is your best path. This main route stretches about 600 meters from south to north.

Forbidden City Accessible Paths & Restrooms Map

Currently, Forbidden City Accessible Paths are mainly available along this central line. Other routes—like the east and west wings—remain difficult to access. There, ramps are either limited or not yet installed.

Along the axis, six major halls stand tall. The first three—Hall of Supreme Harmony, Hall of Central Harmony, and Hall of Preserving Harmony—still have steep stairs and no ramps. However, the last three—Palace of Heavenly Purity, Hall of Union Peace, and Palace of Earthly Tranquility —are fully accessible by wheelchair.

Meanwhile, all restrooms inside the Forbidden City include Forbidden City Accessible Restrooms. They meet the basic needs of travelers with disabilities, offering safe, private, and clean facilities.

Though side routes remain a challenge, the main path ensures you won’t miss the heart of this imperial wonder.

2. Forbidden City Accessible Paths: Recommended Wheelchair Route

For those exploring the Forbidden City in a wheelchair, the central axis is your best route. This main path runs straight from south to north.

Most of the Forbidden City Accessible Paths follow this route. The ramps are thoughtfully designed, but a few slopes are quite steep. That’s mostly due to the site’s ancient structure. In some spots, especially with manual wheelchairs, going uphill can be tough.

people sometimes push wheelchairs backward to avoid tipping forward in the Forbidden City — People sometimes push wheelchairs backward to avoid tipping forward

Going downhill, people sometimes push wheelchairs backward to avoid tipping forward. Take your time—safety first.

First Stop: Meridian Gate (Wumen)
Use the ramp on the west side. Security staff will guide you through a step-free entrance with priority access.

Next: The Outer Court： Hall of Supreme Harmony, Hall of Central Harmony, and Hall of Preserving Harmony
The open squares are smooth and spacious. However, the halls themselves sit high on stairs—so you’ll admire them from below.

In front of Hall of Supreme Harmony in Forbidden City — In front of Hall of Supreme Harmony

Tip: Look up! The mythical roof creatures along the eaves are magical from any angle.

Then: The Inner Court: Palace of Heavenly Purity, Hall of Union Peace, and Palace of Earthly Tranquility
Good news—these are accessible! Gentle side ramps lead you up for a closer look.

On the square between the Outer Court and the Inner Court in Forbidden City — On the square between the Outer Court and the Inner Court

Later: The Imperial Garden
This area is tricky. Stone paths and rockeries can be tough to navigate. Luckily, a flat stone walkway lets you enjoy ancient trees and pavilions from a safe path.

Alternative Routes: Skip the garden and go around via the East or West Palaces. However, those side palaces aren’t accessible inside.

Final Stop: Gate of Divine Prowess (Shenwumen)
This is your exit. Follow the signs for the accessible ramp—it’s clearly marked.

3. Forbidden City Accessible Toilets: Clean, Convenient & Easy to Find

Traveling through the Forbidden City in a wheelchair? You won’t have to worry about finding a restroom.

Today, all 11 public toilet areas across the Forbidden City include Forbidden City Accessible Restrooms. Each one has clear international signage at the entrance.

One of the Restrooms in the Forbidden City

Where to find them? They’re thoughtfully placed near key landmarks:

Inside the Meridian Gate, on the west side
Beside the Hall of Preserving Harmony (Baohe Dian)
On both sides of the Gate of Heavenly Purity (Qianqing Men)
Just south of the Imperial Garden
Near the North Gate (Shenwumen)

You can also check out the full map and tips in my separate guide: Toilets in the Forbidden City: Locations, Map & Tips for Visitors.

A Separate Accessible Toilet in the Forbidden City

Now, the best part—cleanliness.
The Forbidden City is famous for its spotless restrooms. Cleaning staff disinfect them frequently, especially during busy hours.

Forbidden City Accessible Toilets are spacious, well-lit, and equipped with grab bars and emergency call buttons.

However, during peak tourist hours, you might need to wait a few minutes. Still, you’ll find these accessible bathrooms to be among the best-maintained in China’s top attractions.

4. Forbidden City Wheelchair Rental: Free, Easy & Traveler-Friendly

Exploring the Forbidden City in a wheelchair accessible way is easier than you think—thanks to the palace’s free wheelchair rental service.

the place to borrow wheelchairs and strollers in for the Forbidden City — The place to borrow wheelchairs and strollers at Meridian Gate

First, head through the west-side accessible entrance at Meridian Gate. After security, you’ll enter the main square. On your left ( west direction ) , look for a row of red-walled, yellow-roofed buildings. That’s the place for borrowing wheelchair and stroller.

This is where you can get your Forbidden City wheelchair rental. The process is quick and friendly:

Tell the staff you’d like a wheelchair.
Leave a 500 RMB cash deposit. (It’s refundable—don’t forget the receipt!)
A staff member will bring a ready-to-use wheelchair and show you how to use it.

The Place to return wheelchairs and strollers at the Gate of Divine Prowess in Forbidden City — The Place to return wheelchairs and strollers at the Gate of Divine Prowess

Next, enjoy your journey north through the palace grounds. No need to return to the entrance. Simply drop off the wheelchair at the north exit—inside Shenwumen’s Service Center.

However, during busy seasons like Golden Week or summer, wheelchairs may run out early. Arrive at opening time (8:30 AM) or call ahead: 400-950-1925

Tip: Bring your own if you can. Wide tires help on bumpy bricks. If renting, check the brakes and tires before you roll.

5. Where to Eat Lunch in the Forbidden City

Exploring the Forbidden City in a wheelchair can be tiring—both for the traveler and their companion. After two to three hours of navigating ramps, courtyards, and crowds, lunchtime becomes essential.

Thankfully, there’s a Forbidden City wheelchair accessible dining option right inside the palace.

Head to the right side of Qianqing Square, near the Arrow Pavilion or Treasure Gallery. There, you’ll find the Forbidden City Restaurant. It’s on the ground floor, with wide entrances, flat flooring, and helpful staff.

Beef Noodle at the Forbidden City Restaurant

Inside, you can enjoy a light meal, sip a coffee, or simply rest in a quiet spot. The menu offers both local dishes and simple snacks.

After your break, you’ll feel refreshed and ready to explore the rest of the palace.

In short, it’s the perfect midday pause for anyone touring the Forbidden City in a wheelchair.

6. Forbidden City Wheelchair Accessible Guide: Tips Before You Go

This Forbidden City Wheelchair Accessible Guide is here to help make your visit smoother, safer, and more enjoyable.

First, if you don’t have a ticket, head to the south-west side of Meridian Gate. The ticket office there sells same-day entry. Seniors over 60 can also buy tickets onsite—no reservation needed.

Next, aim to visit on weekday mornings, ideally between 8:30 and 11:00. Crowds are lighter, and the experience feels calmer.

Don’t forget sun protection. The central axis has little shade, so a hat and sunscreen go a long way.

Good news—wheelchair users and one companion can skip long lines. Use the green channel on the west side of the gate.

If you’re in a manual wheelchair, a friend’s help may be needed. Electric wheelchairs are welcome but keep speeds low.

Finally, if you need assistance, just wave. Staff are kind, well-trained, and always ready to help.

The Forbidden City Wheelchair Accessible Guide may not promise perfection—but it leads you through living history.

Yes, some slopes are steep. Some paths may require detours. However, those turns often reveal hidden gems—like a stone lion tucked behind a red wall, or glazed tiles glowing at sunset.

Most of all, may you feel not barriers, but a warm welcome from centuries past. Need help? Look for staff with badges—many speak basic English. Enjoy your unforgettable journey!