I've been trying to book Forbidden City tickets online but it’s either sold out or the app isn’t working properly. Is it possible to just buy the tickets on-site at the entrance without a reservation? Mark
Yes, you actually can buy Forbidden City tickets on-site—but there’s a catch.
Officially, all visitors are required to book tickets online 1 to 7 days in advance. This policy helps control the daily crowd size and keep things organized.
But in real life, there’s some flexibility.
If you're an international traveler with a valid passport, or a Chinese citizen over 60 with a valid ID, you can usually purchase tickets directly at the entrance. It's not something they advertise on the official site, but staff often make exceptions—likely because these groups sometimes struggle with the online booking system.
Just a heads-up: this isn’t a guaranteed option, and it’s definitely not listed in any official rules. But many travelers have had success with this approach.
👉 For step-by-step info, check out my full guide: How to Buy Forbidden City Tickets On-Site: Maps & Travel Tips.
Have a nice time in Beijing!
Regards,
Ruqin China Travel Team