The Palace Museum (故宫博物院)

故宫博物院

Foreigner FavoritesUpdated 2026-02-15

📋Overview

Overview

The Palace Museum (故宫博物院) is located at the core of Beijing’s central axis and served as the imperial palace for 24 emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties. It is also known as the "Forbidden City (紫禁城)" because it was believed to correspond to the earthly position of the ancient "Ziwei Star" (紫微星). Construction began in the 4th year of the Yongle reign of the Ming dynasty (1406) and was basically completed by the 18th year of Yongle (1420), making it over 600 years old. Since 1914, parts of the palace were opened to the public as an "Antiquities Exhibition Hall," and in 1925 it was officially established as the Palace Museum, transforming from an emperor’s residence into a museum shared by all. Hence, it is often summarized as "605 years of the Forbidden City, a century of the Palace Museum."

The entire palace complex stretches about 961 meters from north to south and about 753 meters from east to west, with walls approximately 10 meters high. Each corner features a highly recognizable corner tower, and the palace is surrounded by a moat. The overall layout strictly follows the ritual system of "front court, rear residence":

The southern part centers on the three main halls: Hall of Supreme Harmony (太和殿), Hall of Central Harmony (中和殿), and Hall of Preserving Harmony (保和殿). This area was the venue for major ceremonies such as coronations, New Year’s court assemblies, and imperial examinations, serving as the "stage of power" in ancient times;
The central area focuses on Palace of Heavenly Purity (乾清宫), Hall of Union (交泰殿), and Palace of Earthly Tranquility (坤宁宫), which were the emperor’s and empresses’ daily living quarters and administrative spaces;
The northernmost part is the Imperial Garden (御花园), symbolizing the ideal world of imperial retreat into nature;
The east and west sides contain the Eastern Six Palaces (东六宫), Western Six Palaces (西六宫), as well as Palace of Tranquil Longevity (宁寿宫) and Palace of Compassion and Tranquility (慈宁宫), forming a complete court system for the residences of consorts, retirement of empress dowagers, and retired emperors.

The Forbidden City represents the pinnacle of ancient Chinese wooden palace architecture:

The Hall of Supreme Harmony roof features the palace’s only "ten ridges and ten beasts (十脊十兽)," symbolizing the highest level of royal ritual and serving as a key detail to identify the building’s rank;
Behind the steps of the Hall of Preserving Harmony lies a massive "Cloud and Dragon Stone Carving (云龙石雕)" weighing several hundred tons, intricately carved with nine dragons in motion. The stone was transported using an ancient winter engineering technique of "watering and freezing to drag," showcasing the ingenuity of Ming and Qing craftsmen;
The coffered ceilings in the Imperial Garden’s Qianqiu Pavilion (千秋亭), Wanchun Pavilion (万春亭), and the Hall of Imperial Extremes (皇极殿) and Zhai Gong (斋宫) in the Ning Shou Palace area are exquisitely crafted and often praised in travelogues as the "most beautiful ceilings," representing a concentrated expression of architectural and painting arts.

In terms of cultural relics, the Palace Museum is truly a "sea of artifacts":

The Wuying Hall Ceramics Gallery (武英殿陶瓷馆) systematically displays exquisite ceramics from various dynasties;
The Wenhua Hall (文华殿) hosts permanent or rotating high-profile special exhibitions, such as Sino-Thai cultural relic exhibitions;
The Cining Palace Sculpture Gallery (慈宁宫雕塑馆) houses important sculptures including Northern Qi Buddhist statues and Ming dynasty Arhat figures;
The Fengxian Hall Clock Gallery (奉先殿钟表馆) showcases a collection of palace clocks blending Chinese and Western styles, including the famous gilded bronze writing clock (铜镀金写字人钟) that could "write Chinese calligraphy," regarded as ancient "black technology";
The Ningshou Palace Treasure Gallery (宁寿宫珍宝馆) gathers core exhibition areas such as the Nine-Dragon Wall, gold and silverware, and jewelry, displaying heavyweight treasures like Empress Xiaoduan’s kingfisher feather phoenix crown, Empress Xiaojing’s phoenix crown, and Qianlong’s golden pagoda.

The overall layout of Beijing’s old city also centers around the Forbidden City, forming a central axis structure described as "front court, rear market; left ancestral temple, right social temple." Some educational authors explain this strict symmetry to children by saying, "Beijing is like a neatly folded painting; when unfolded, each side matches perfectly." Today, the Forbidden City is not only the largest and best-preserved wooden palace complex in the world but also one of the most sought-after Chinese attractions for foreign tourists. The official website offers multilingual interfaces including English, and foreign visitors can purchase tickets online with their passports. At the Meridian Gate entrance, bilingual Chinese-English maps and multilingual audio guides are available for rent. Whether bringing children for educational trips, accompanying foreign friends to experience Chinese culture, or photography enthusiasts chasing the "red walls and blue tiles" or the "Forbidden City in the snow," the Palace Museum is like a vast cultural living room waiting to be rediscovered again and again. As one blogger exclaimed, "Walking 20,000 steps! The Forbidden City punishes those who don’t plan ahead." By understanding its structure and highlights in advance, you will find that every brick and tile of this "red walls and yellow tiles locking in six centuries of time" palace tells a story worth visiting over and over.

History and Functional Evolution

Ming Dynasty Yongle Capital Relocation: Emperor Yongle (Zhu Di) moved the capital to Beijing, planning the new city according to the celestial pattern of the "Ziwei Enclosure (紫微垣)," with the Forbidden City as the core, establishing the Beijing central axis layout;
Qing Dynasty Continuation: After the Qing entered Beijing, some palace functions were adjusted, such as converting the Palace of Earthly Tranquility (坤宁宫) from the empress’s residence to a place for ancestral worship, but the overall layout largely followed the Ming system;
Modern Opening and Museum Transformation: After the 1911 Revolution, the imperial court gradually withdrew from history, and in 1925 the Palace Museum was established to systematically organize, research, and exhibit court artifacts;
Contemporary Preservation and Research: Entering the 21st century, the Palace Museum launched large-scale ancient building restorations and digital projects, including the Digital Forbidden City and online exhibitions, continuously curating high-quality special exhibitions. It has transformed from a "royal forbidden zone" into an open cultural institution accessible to the world. For foreign visitors, it is not just a place to "see where Chinese emperors lived," but a three-dimensional classroom for understanding Chinese ritual, art, and daily life.

🌸Best Season

Best Travel Seasons

The Forbidden City (故宫) offers highlights throughout the year, but climate, lighting, and crowd levels vary greatly. Choosing the right season can significantly enhance your experience.

Spring (March–May): Blossoms Awaken, Ideal for Study Tours and Leisurely Visits

Climate Features: Temperatures warm up, winds are milder than in winter, but mornings and evenings remain cool;
Scenic Highlights: Flowers and plants sprout in the Imperial Garden (御花园), Cining Palace Garden (慈宁宫花园), and other areas. The fresh greenery contrasts softly with the red walls and yellow tiles, perfect for capturing “Springtime at the Forbidden City”;
Crowd Situation: Noticeable increase around Qingming Festival and May Day holidays;
Visiting Tips:
- Great for bringing kids on educational trips, with explanations of the “Front Court and Rear Palace” layout and basic exhibitions;
- Try to visit on weekdays or afternoon sessions to avoid early morning tour group rush;
- Bring a light jacket to handle temperature changes in the morning and evening.

Summer (June–August): The Most “Leg-Tiring” Season, but Blue Skies and Red Walls Make Stunning Photos

Climate Features: Strong sunlight and high temperatures; stone pavements and the main plaza in front of the halls can get extremely hot;
Scenic Highlights: The vivid contrast of red walls and yellow tiles against blue skies and white clouds creates the most striking photo opportunities of the year;
Crowd Situation: Summer vacation is the busiest booking period, and tickets for popular dates sell out quickly;
Visiting Tips:
- Book tickets 7 days in advance at 8:00 PM on the official app or website; prepare two phones and a stable internet connection;
- Essential items: sun hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, sun umbrella, and breathable sports shoes;
- Alternate between outdoor palaces and indoor exhibitions to avoid prolonged sun exposure;
- Avoid lingering too long at the central axis plaza around noon; stay hydrated and watch for heatstroke.

Autumn (September–October): Widely Recognized as the “Best Season”

Climate Features: Cool temperatures, clear air, and high, expansive skies—perfect for long walks;
Scenic Highlights:
- Outside the palace walls near Xihuamen Gate (西华门), ginkgo trees turn golden in late autumn, creating a “tree full of shimmering gold.” Along with the weeping willows by the moat, this area is widely recommended as the “most beautiful walking route outside the palace walls”;
- Inside the palace, soft lighting is ideal for photographing architectural details and portraits;
Crowd Situation:
- National Day holiday is one of the busiest times, requiring early ticket booking;
- Visitor numbers drop after mid-October, making it a golden period for in-depth exploration;
Visiting Tips:
- Recommend a full-day deep tour covering the Six Western and Eastern Palaces, Cining Palace (慈宁宫), and Ningshou Palace (宁寿宫) areas;
- Combine with a visit to Jingshan Park (景山公园) to watch the sunset and capture the “Golden Forbidden City.”

Winter (November–March of the Following Year): Off-Season with Fewer Crowds, Awaiting a “Snowy Forbidden City”

Climate Features: Beijing winters are cold and windy with low perceived temperatures; it remains very cold around February 2026;
Ticket Prices and Hours:
- Off-season tickets cost ¥40 (~~$6 USD) compared to ¥60 (~~$9 USD) in peak season; the Treasure Gallery (珍宝馆) and Clock and Watch Gallery (钟表馆) require an additional ¥10 (~$1.5 USD) combined ticket;
- Winter opening hours are generally 8:30 AM–4:30 PM, with last entry at 3:30 PM; allow enough time for your visit;
Scenic Highlights:
- Fewer visitors and soft lighting make it perfect for leisurely photography of buildings and details;
- If it snows, the “Winter Forbidden City” or “Snowy Forbidden City” is a dream scene for photographers, with striking contrasts between red walls and white snow;
Visiting Tips:
- Prioritize warmth: wear down jackets, hats, scarves, gloves, and shoes with non-slip soles;
- Choose weekday afternoon sessions to avoid the coldest mornings and enjoy a relatively quiet palace;
- Manage your itinerary to avoid standing outside too long and catching a chill.

Overall Recommendations

For ginkgo trees and soft lighting: best in October;
For snow scenes and avoiding crowds: best on weekdays from December to February;
For family trips during holidays: focus on ticket booking and off-peak strategies during summer vacation and National Day Golden Week;
Any season: remember the Forbidden City is closed on Mondays (except public holidays); holidays and weekends require earlier booking and planning.

🚇Getting There

Transportation and Entrance Methods

Currently, the only official entrance to the Forbidden City is the Meridian Gate (午门) on the south side. The Shenwu Gate (神武门), Donghua Gate (东华门), and Xihua Gate (西华门) serve as exits or side passages and do not allow direct ticket inspection for entry. All transportation options aim to efficiently reach the Meridian Gate or nearby starting points for a “smooth entry” such as Donghua Gate (东华门) and the Palace of the Working People’s Culture (劳动人民文化宫).

1. Metro Routes

1. Line 8: Jinyu Hutong Station (金鱼胡同站) — Most Recommended

Recommendation Rating: ★★★★★

Take Metro Line 8 and exit at Jinyu Hutong Station, Exit C;
After exiting, walk west along Dong’anmen Street (东安门大街) for about 10 minutes to reach Donghua Gate (东华门);
Turn left in front of the Donghua Gate tower, then walk along the outer city wall beside the moat for about 10 minutes to arrive at Meridian Gate Square (午门广场).

Advantages:

Only one ID verification and security check at Meridian Gate;
Completely avoids multiple rounds of security checks and detours around Tiananmen Square;
Clear route with moderate walking distance, offering distant views of the corner towers and red walls, creating a strong ceremonial atmosphere.

Next to Exit C of Jinyu Hutong Station is a small “Jinyu Metro Food City”, ideal for breakfast before entering or dinner after exiting the palace (see the food section for details).

2. Line 1: Tian’anmen East / Tian’anmen West Stations

Take Metro Line 1 and get off at Tian’anmen East Station or Tian’anmen West Station;
Many guides say it’s about a 10-minute walk to Meridian Gate, but note:
- Security checks around Tian’anmen are complicated, especially during morning rush hours and holidays, with queue times possibly 30–60 minutes or longer;
- The actual distance from the metro exit to Meridian Gate is about 1 km, requiring multiple rounds of security checks and crowd control.

Suitable for:

First-time visitors to Beijing who want to tour Tian’anmen Square along the way;
Those with relatively ample time who don’t mind queuing for security in the square area.

“Palace of the Working People’s Culture Shortcut” (Hidden Route at Tian’anmen East Station Exit B)

Exit at Tian’anmen East Station, Exit B;
After exiting, you will see the “Nanchizi” archway ahead; enter Nanchizi Street and walk straight;
After a few minutes, you will see a Hanting Hotel on the roadside; turn into the alley directly opposite it;
Walk another 100–200 meters to reach the Palace of the Working People’s Culture (劳动人民文化宫) (also known as the Imperial Ancestral Temple, ticket price ¥2 (~$0.30 USD));
After purchasing a ticket and entering, follow the Forbidden City signs westward and exit from the West Gate, which leads directly to Meridian Gate Square, opposite the south gate of Jingshan Park.

Features:

Much less security and crowd pressure than the main Tian’anmen Square route;
Opportunity to briefly explore the Imperial Ancestral Temple complex and experience royal sacrificial spaces;
About a 10-minute walk with almost no queues during off-peak seasons; strongly recommended by locals and experienced visitors as a “smooth entry” route.

3. Line 2: Qianmen Station

Take Metro Line 2 to Qianmen Station (前门站);
After exiting, walk along Qianmen Street towards Tian’anmen Square, then detour to Meridian Gate; total walking time about 20 minutes;
You will need to pass through security at Tian’anmen Square.

Suitable for:

First-time visitors who want to tour Qianmen Street and Tian’anmen Square along the way;
Those tolerant of walking and queuing.

2. Bus Routes

Several bus lines serve the Tian’anmen area:

Take buses 1, 2, 52, 59, 82, etc., to Tian’anmen East Station (天安门东站) or Tian’anmen West Station (天安门西站), then walk to Meridian Gate;
Travel time depends on starting point, generally about 30 minutes to 1 hour.

Some highly rated authors suggest:

“Don’t take the metro to the Forbidden City; the route is roundabout and security checks are complicated. Taking a bus near Donghua Gate or the Palace of the Working People’s Culture is faster and more convenient.”

If you’re not in a hurry and want to enjoy the scenery along Chang’an Avenue, bus plus walking is a relatively comfortable choice.

3. Summary of “Smooth Entry” Walking Routes

Route A: Jinyu Hutong Smooth Line
Line 8 Jinyu Hutong Exit C → Dong’anmen Street → Donghua Gate → Walk along outer moat → Meridian Gate (only one security check).
Route B: Palace of the Working People’s Culture Shortcut
Line 1 Tian’anmen East Exit B → Nanchizi Street → Alley opposite Hanting Hotel → Palace of the Working People’s Culture (¥2 ticket) → Exit West Gate → Meridian Gate Square (opposite Jingshan Park South Gate).
Route C: Donghua Gate Drop-off Walking Line
Taxi or bus to Donghua Gate, then walk about 10 minutes along the city wall to Meridian Gate ticket checkpoint. Multiple authors have tested this: it takes about 10 minutes and only requires one ID check and security screening.

4. Driving and Parking

The core area around the Forbidden City strictly controls private vehicles; Tian’anmen Square area is mostly no parking or limited-time parking zones, so driving directly to Meridian Gate is not recommended;
Common practice is to park at public parking lots in Wangfujing, Jinbao Street, or Jingshan East Street, then walk or take a short taxi ride to Donghua Gate or Jingshan Park South Gate;
Visitors unfamiliar with Beijing traffic are advised to prioritize metro + walking or bus + walking to reduce driving stress in the core area.

5. Departing from Major Transport Hubs

Beijing Capital Airport:
Airport Express → Dongzhimen → transfer to Line 2 to Jianguomen → transfer to Line 1 to Tian’anmen East/West;
Or Airport Express to Dongzhimen then transfer to bus directly to Tian’anmen East;
Total time about 60–90 minutes.
Beijing Daxing International Airport:
Daxing Airport Express → Caoqiao Station → transfer to Line 10 → transfer to Line 1 to Tian’anmen East/West;
Total time about 70–90 minutes.
Beijing Railway Station:
Metro Line 2 → Jianguomen → transfer to Line 1 to Tian’anmen East/West;
Or taxi about 15–20 minutes (depending on traffic).
Beijing West Railway Station:
Metro Line 7 → Caishikou → transfer to Line 4 to Xidan → transfer to Line 1 to Tian’anmen East/West;
Or taxi about 25–40 minutes (depending on traffic).

6. Special Reminders

Strict security at Tian’anmen Square: Queue times can exceed 30–60 minutes before and after the flag-raising ceremony and on holidays. If you don’t plan to watch the flag-raising, it’s recommended to avoid the square security and choose the Donghua Gate or Palace of the Working People’s Culture routes first.
Tian’anmen Jinshui Bridge is a one-way “entry only” path: Once you pass, returning to the square requires a detour of about half an hour. Please follow on-site instructions carefully.
Meridian Gate security channels are divided into “with bag / without bag”: Bloggers have tested queues at 9 AM; carrying a bag only adds about 5 minutes. Don’t skip bringing a bag just to save a few minutes—carry what you need reasonably.

🎫Tickets & Hours

Ticket and Reservation Information

The Palace Museum (故宫) implements a real-name, time-slot reservation system and generally does not sell same-day tickets on-site. In very rare cases, some foreign visitors may purchase tickets on-site with a passport as a backup, but the official policy clearly states "no same-day tickets are sold," and on-site ticket purchases are only an emergency solution in extreme situations.

1. Basic Ticket Prices

Peak Season (April 1 – October 31):
- Palace Museum ticket: ¥60 per person (~$9 USD).
Off-Season (November 1 – March 31 of the following year):
- Palace Museum ticket: ¥40 per person (~$6 USD) (many foreign visitor notes specifically mention "off-season ticket price is ¥40").
Children and Student Discounts:
- Free for children under 14 (must be accompanied by an adult, clearly stated in family travel guides);
- Students with valid student ID can enjoy half-price discount (including some foreign students, who must present an international student card or valid proof from their school).
Senior Discounts:
- Seniors aged 60 and above are eligible for discounted tickets;
- Many guides mention "seniors 60+ can queue on the day," but queue times during summer holidays and public holidays can be long, so be mentally prepared and allow extra time.

2. Combo Tickets and Special Tickets

Treasure Gallery + Clock Gallery Combo Ticket: ¥10 per person (~$1.50 USD)
Multiple articles consistently mention "Treasure Gallery/Clock Gallery ¥10," which is essentially an add-on combo ticket. Purchase methods are flexible:
- When booking the main ticket, you can choose not to select the Treasure Gallery or Clock Gallery to speed up submission;
- If online slots are full, you can scan a QR code at the entrance to buy tickets on-site, deciding whether to enter based on your energy and time that day.
Key Exhibits (for ticket decision reference only):
- Treasure Gallery: Nine-Dragon Wall, Hall of Imperial Supremacy, Gold and Silver Ware Hall, Jewelry Hall, Empress Xiaoduan’s Phoenix Crown with Kingfisher Feathers, Empress Xiaojing’s Phoenix Crown, Qianlong’s Golden Hair Pagoda, etc.;
- Clock Gallery: The copper-gilt calligraphy clock that writes Chinese brush characters, and other East-West hybrid palace clocks.

3. Reservation Channels and Ticket Release Times

1. Mainland Chinese Visitors (ID Card Reservation)

Official Mini Program:
- Name: “Palace Museum (故宫博物院)”;
- Reservations open 7 days in advance;
- Tickets are released daily at 8:00 PM (many highly rated ticket-snatching guides emphasize this).
Key Tips:
- Fill in all visitor information (name, ID number, etc.) in the mini program’s bottom-right [Personal] section in advance for one-click selection during booking to save time;
- One phone number can purchase up to 5 tickets (including adult, senior, and minor tickets);
- Reservations are divided into morning and afternoon entry slots:
  - Morning ticket: entry time 8:30 AM – 12:00 PM, no entry allowed after 12:00 PM;
  - Afternoon ticket: entry time generally 11:00 AM – 3:30 PM (varies slightly by season), no entry before 11:00 AM.

2. Foreign, Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan Visitors (Passport/Travel Permit Reservation)

Official Website:
Visit https://bookingticket.dpm.org.cn, which offers English and other language interfaces;
Registration and Documents:
- Register using passport/Hong Kong-Macau travel permit/Taiwan compatriot permit numbers;
- When selecting document type as "Other ID/其他证件," you can manually enter the full passport number (letters + numbers);
Ticket Purchase Rules:
- Up to 10 tickets can be booked at once;
- Supports VISA/MasterCard/UnionPay credit cards;
- If online payment fails, offline payment with order number may be possible (subject to on-site policy);
- You can pre-enter all visitor information in the top-right "Personal Center" for quick selection during booking.

4. Ticket Snatching Tips and Release Rhythm

Many "11-minute ticket-snatching methods" and 2024–2025 practical tests have summarized a relatively stable ticket release rhythm:

Ticket Release Time Slots:
- Tickets are released in batches every evening from 8:00 PM to 9:00 PM;
- Approximately every 5 minutes a batch is released: 20:05–06, 10–11, 15–16, 20–21, 25–26, 30–31, 35–36, 40–41, 45–46... until around 9:00 PM;
- The system may lag and be inaccessible at 20:00–20:01, which is normal;
- Many visitors successfully snag tickets for popular dates between 8:30 PM and 8:45 PM.
Practical Operation Suggestions:
1. Preparation Stage:
  - Complete personal information in the mini program or website in advance;
  - Set an alarm for 7:57 PM and enter the system early to wait;
  - It’s recommended to prepare two phones: one dedicated to ticket-snatching, the other to monitor the stopwatch and refresh ticket availability;
  - Close other background apps and use 5G network or stable broadband.
2. When Facing Lag:
  - If you see the message "High traffic, please wait," do not fully exit the mini program; instead, swipe left to go back one step and re-enter, avoiding frequent restarts from the homepage;
  - If stuck on "Submit Order" or "Please try again later" pop-ups, avoid repeatedly clicking "I understand" which returns you to the homepage; wait a moment, then swipe back to the order page and resubmit.
3. Regarding “Fully Booked” Messages:
  - Messages of "fully booked" before 8:30 PM do not necessarily mean no tickets are left;
  - After 8:30 PM, the system’s displayed remaining tickets are closer to reality; it’s recommended to keep refreshing until before 9:00 PM.
4. Handling Children and Combo Tickets:
  - Free children’s tickets can be added on the purchased order page via "Enter here" after the adult ticket purchase is successful;
  - Treasure Gallery and Clock Gallery combo tickets can be left unselected initially and purchased separately after securing the main ticket to avoid extra steps during critical times.

5. Entry Documents and Verification

Visitors must bring the original ID card or passport matching the reservation information; entry is verified on-site through ID scanning + facial recognition, no paper tickets required;
Most Beijing attractions use ID card scanning for entry; electronic IDs or photos of documents are generally not accepted, so bring physical documents;
The Meridian Gate (午门) ticket checkpoint has "with bag" and "without bag" lanes; some testers report that bringing a bag only adds about 5 minutes to the queue, so pack according to your needs.

6. Opening Hours and Closed Days

Regular Opening Hours:
- Approximately 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM, with last entry at 4:00 PM (subject to annual announcements);
Winter Opening Hours (November 1 – March 31):
- Many tests show 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM, with last entry at 3:30 PM;
Closed Days:
- Closed every Monday, except on public holidays;
Special Exhibition Halls Last Entry Times:
- Treasure Gallery and Clock Gallery last entry around 3:40 PM in off-season and 4:10 PM in peak season; it’s recommended to plan visits accordingly.

7. Overall Reservation Difficulty Assessment

Among many Beijing attractions, Palace Museum ticket reservations are considered “medium to high” difficulty, especially during summer vacation, National Day (October 1), and Chinese New Year peak periods. However, by mastering the 8 PM batch ticket release rhythm, completing information in advance, and persistently refreshing until 8:30–9:00 PM, there is still a good chance to successfully book tickets for most dates.

⏱️Recommended Duration

Recommended Visit Duration

Based on multiple on-site tests and different visitor needs, the recommended visit duration for the Forbidden City (故宫) can be roughly divided into three categories. You can flexibly choose according to your stamina and interests.

1. Quick Check-in: About 2 Hours

Suitable for:

Visitors with very tight schedules who just want to "say they've been there";
Those planning to visit multiple attractions within half a day.

Typical Route:

Meridian Gate (午门, entrance) → Gate of Supreme Harmony (太和门) → Hall of Supreme Harmony (太和殿) → Hall of Central Harmony (中和殿) → Hall of Preserving Harmony (保和殿) → Palace of Heavenly Purity (乾清宫) → Hall of Union (交泰殿) → Palace of Earthly Tranquility (坤宁宫) → Imperial Garden (御花园) → Gate of Divine Might (神武门, exit).

Features:

Mostly a straight walk along the central axis, covering the Three Great Halls, the Rear Palaces, and the Imperial Garden;
Walking time is about 2 hours, suitable for first-time visitors with limited time;
Almost no entry into exhibition halls, limited understanding of cultural relics, the Eastern and Western Six Palaces, and the Palace of Tranquil Longevity (宁寿宫); more of a "quick architectural exterior tour."

2. Standard Tour: About 4–5 Hours (Half-Day Highlights)

Suitable for:

Most regular tourists;
Families with children who want to balance architecture and cultural relics;
Those who want a fairly comprehensive visit without getting too tired.

Common Itinerary Options:

Architecture-focused + Some Exhibitions:
- Meridian Gate → Hall of Martial Valor (武英殿, Ceramics Museum) or Hall of Literary Brilliance (文华殿, Special Exhibitions) → Gate of Supreme Harmony → Three Great Halls → Palace of Compassion and Tranquility (慈宁宫, Sculpture Museum) → Shoukang Palace / Garden of Compassion and Tranquility → Palace of Heavenly Purity → Hall of Union → Palace of Earthly Tranquility → Western Six Palaces (Yikun Palace, Chuxiu Palace, etc.) → Imperial Garden → Gate of Divine Might.
Relics-focused + No Backtracking:
- Meridian Gate → Inner Golden Water Bridge → Three Great Halls → Clock Museum → Treasure Gallery (Nine-Dragon Wall, Hall of Imperial Extremes, Gold and Silver Ware Museum, Jewelry Museum) → Gate of Heavenly Purity → Palace of Heavenly Purity → Hall of Union → Palace of Earthly Tranquility → Imperial Garden → Gate of Divine Might.
Tested 4–5 Hour Highlights:
- Meridian Gate → Three Great Halls → Palace of Compassion and Tranquility → Palace of Heavenly Purity → Hall of Union → Palace of Earthly Tranquility → Western Six Palaces (Yikun Palace / Chuxiu Palace) → Imperial Garden → Clock Museum → Treasure Gallery → Gate of Divine Might.

Features:

Balances core buildings along the central axis with 1–2 key exhibition halls;
Moderate walking distance, usually around 15,000–20,000 steps;
It’s recommended to take a break and have a light meal at an on-site restaurant (such as the Ice Cellar Restaurant or Jingyunmen Restaurant), especially important when visiting with children to manage energy.

3. In-Depth Exploration: About 7–8 Hours (Full-Day Tour)

Suitable for:

History enthusiasts and photography lovers;
Parent-child study groups, history/architecture students;
Visitors aiming to cover 80–90% of the open areas of the Forbidden City.

Typical Full-Day In-Depth Route:

Meridian Gate → Hall of Martial Valor (Ceramics Museum) → Hall of Literary Brilliance (Special Exhibitions) → Three Great Halls → Palace of Compassion and Tranquility (Sculpture Museum) → Gate of Heavenly Purity → Palace of Heavenly Purity → Hall of Union → Palace of Earthly Tranquility → Western Six Palaces (Chuxiu Palace, Yikun Palace, Xianfu Palace, etc.) → Imperial Garden → Eastern Six Palaces (Jingren Palace, Yanxi Palace, etc.) → Zhai Palace (Special Exhibition) → Clock Museum → Treasure Gallery (Ningshou Palace area: Hall of Imperial Extremes, Hall of Nourishing Life, Hall of Joyful Longevity, Nine-Dragon Wall, Consort Zhen’s Well, etc.) → Gate of Divine Might.

Features:

Total walking distance can reach 20,000–30,000 steps, requiring good stamina;
Suitable for making the Forbidden City the sole main attraction of the day, without combining with other major sites;
Wear comfortable sports shoes, plan multiple breaks and meals, and in winter, make sure to warm up inside exhibition halls as needed.

4. Time Coordination Suggestions with Nearby Attractions

Half-Day Forbidden City + Half-Day Jingshan Park (景山公园):
- Spend 4–5 hours in the Forbidden City in the morning or afternoon, then exit from Gate of Divine Might and head directly to the south gate of Jingshan Park opposite to climb up and overlook the entire Forbidden City;
- If visiting the Forbidden City in the afternoon, plan to catch the sunset at Jingshan Park for photos of the "Golden Forbidden City."
Forbidden City + Imperial Ancestral Temple (太庙) / Working People's Cultural Palace (劳动人民文化宫):
- When entering via the route “Tian’anmen East Exit B — Nan Chi Zi — Working People's Cultural Palace — Meridian Gate,” reserve 1–1.5 hours for a light visit to the Imperial Ancestral Temple complex inside the Working People's Cultural Palace to experience the royal sacrificial space;
- Suitable for visitors interested in Ming and Qing ritual systems and ancestral temple institutions.
Forbidden City + Wangfujing / Qianmen Commercial Area:
- For visitors with ample time: spend half a day touring the Forbidden City, and the other half exploring Wangfujing Pedestrian Street or Qianmen Street to experience the blend of old Beijing and modern commerce;
- Dinner can be arranged near Wangfujing or Qianmen to relax after a day of walking.

5. Overview of Time Recommendations for Different Visitors

First-time visitors to Beijing with limited time: Reserve at least half a day (4 hours), following a “central axis + 1–2 exhibition halls” standard route;
Families with children for study or deep enthusiasts: Recommend a full-day tour (7–8 hours) with reasonable lunch breaks and meals;
Those with average stamina or visiting in cold winter: Split the visit into “morning Forbidden City + afternoon Jingshan Park” or “afternoon Forbidden City + watch flag-raising the night before” to avoid excessive high-intensity walking in one day.

✨Highlights

Must-See Highlights and Classic Routes

This section focuses on the core palaces, important exhibition halls, distinctive architectural details, and classic tour routes inside the Forbidden City (故宫), helping you catch the essence within limited time.

1. Core Palaces and Important Exhibition Halls

1. Meridian Gate (午门) and Inner Golden Water Bridge (内金水桥)

Meridian Gate (午门): The only main entrance to the Forbidden City, designed in the style of a five-roofed tower. It was the starting point for grand ceremonies like the emperor’s salary distribution and military expeditions. Standing inside the Meridian Gate archway looking north, you can see the “gate within a gate” layered palace gates—a stunning first visual impression of entering the Forbidden City.
Inner Golden Water Bridge (内金水桥): Five white marble bridges inside the Meridian Gate crossing the Golden Water River, symbolizing the Five Elements. The corridors on both sides, Xiehe Gate (协和门) and Xihe Gate (熙和门), are classic photo spots capturing the bridge, river, reflections, and Taihe Gate (太和门) in one frame.

2. The Three Great Halls: Hall of Supreme Harmony (太和殿), Hall of Central Harmony (中和殿), Hall of Preserving Harmony (保和殿)

Taihe Gate (太和门): The front gate of the Three Great Halls, flanked by a pair of distinctive bronze lions—male lion with a ball under his paw, female lion with a cub—symbolizing “peace and prosperity, many children and blessings.”
Hall of Supreme Harmony (太和殿): The highest-ranking building in the Forbidden City, where Ming and Qing emperors held grand ceremonies such as enthronements, weddings, and New Year’s court sessions. Its roof features the palace’s only “Ten Ridges and Ten Beasts” (十脊十兽), symbolizing the highest royal ritual status and a key detail for identifying building rank.
Hall of Central Harmony (中和殿): The smallest of the Three Great Halls, where the emperor rested before ceremonies and received reports from ritual officials, embodying the principle of “central harmony.”
Hall of Preserving Harmony (保和殿): Venue for the Ming and Qing imperial examinations and large banquets. The rear eaves’ steps feature a single-piece “Cloud and Dragon Stone Carving” (云龙石雕) with nine dragons frolicking, a masterpiece of Ming and Qing stone carving art.

3. Qianqing Gate (乾清门) and the Rear Three Palaces: Palace of Heavenly Purity (乾清宫), Hall of Union (交泰殿), Palace of Earthly Tranquility (坤宁宫)

Qianqing Gate (乾清门): The inner court gate with a plaque inscribed “Hall of Cautious Virtue” (慎德堂), marking the boundary between the outer court and inner court, symbolizing “acting with virtue and caution.”
Palace of Heavenly Purity (乾清宫): The emperor’s daily residence and place for handling state affairs, featuring the plaque “Upright and Magnanimous” (正大光明). Behind the plaque was once hidden the secret edict for imperial succession, an important witness to Qing dynasty succession.
Hall of Union (交泰殿): Located between the Palace of Heavenly Purity and Palace of Earthly Tranquility, symbolizing “the harmony of heaven and earth.” It was the empress’s administrative place and housed important seals like the “Twenty-Five Treasures.”
Palace of Earthly Tranquility (坤宁宫): The empress’s residence during the Ming dynasty, converted into a shrine in the Qing dynasty but still used as the “bridal chamber” for Qing emperors’ weddings. Many royal wedding stories are connected to this palace.

4. Imperial Garden (御花园) and the “Most Beautiful Ceiling”

Imperial Garden (御花园): Located at the northern end of the central axis, it is a small but exquisitely arranged royal garden built in the Ming dynasty, featuring scenic spots like Dui Xiu Hill (堆秀山), Qianqiu Pavilion (千秋亭), and Wanchun Pavilion (万春亭).
Qianqiu Pavilion and Wanchun Pavilion Caisson Ceilings (藻井): The caisson ceilings inside these pavilions are extremely ornate, with layers of dougong brackets folding inward and delicate paintings. Many travelogues call them among the “most beautiful ceilings,” representing a pinnacle of architectural and decorative art.
“Well Caisson” (井藻): On both sides of the Imperial Garden are two exquisitely decorated wells with finely carved stone patterns, called “well caissons” by some visitors—a great spot to appreciate detailed craftsmanship.

5. East and West Six Palaces and Life in the Inner Court

West Six Palaces (西六宫): Including Chuxiu Palace (储秀宫), Yikun Palace (翊坤宫), Xianfu Palace (咸福宫), residences of imperial consorts:
- Chuxiu Palace (储秀宫): The residence refurbished when Empress Dowager Cixi turned 50, an important space for late Qing political operations.
- Yikun Palace (翊坤宫): The residence of Consort Ling in the popular drama “Story of Yanxi Palace,” gaining attention due to the TV series.
East Six Palaces (东六宫): Including Jingren Palace (景仁宫), Yanxi Palace (延禧宫), etc.:
- Yanxi Palace (延禧宫): Site of the “Western-style Water Hall” ruins, a representative of Sino-Western architectural fusion, witnessing Qing court’s late attempts at Western styles.
- Jingren Palace (景仁宫): Exhibits the “Golden Cup of Eternal Stability” (金瓯永固杯) frequently appearing in “Empresses in the Palace,” symbolizing the Qing emperor’s wish for enduring national fortune.

6. Palace of Tranquil Longevity (宁寿宫区) and Treasure Gallery (珍宝馆)

Palace of Tranquil Longevity (宁寿宫区): Located in the northeast of the Forbidden City, built by Emperor Qianlong as his retirement palace, composed of buildings like the Hall of Imperial Supremacy (皇极殿), Hall of Nurturing Life (养性殿), and Hall of Joyful Longevity (乐寿堂). The layout is exquisite and decorations splendid.
Treasure Gallery (珍宝馆): One of the core exhibition halls in the Palace of Tranquil Longevity, showcasing imperial treasures such as gold and silverware, jewelry, and precious objects:
- Key exhibits include Empress Xiaoduan’s Phoenix Crown with Kingfisher Feathers, Empress Xiaojing’s Phoenix Crown, Qianlong’s Golden Pagoda, etc.
- The Nine-Dragon Wall (九龙壁) near the Treasure Gallery is a legendary Forbidden City landmark, featuring nine giant dragons leaping on a glazed tile wall in vivid colors, a “must-see national treasure” for many visitors.

7. Hall of Ancestral Worship Clock Gallery (奉先殿钟表馆)

Hall of Ancestral Worship (奉先殿): Originally a place for ancestor worship, now the Clock Gallery.
Exhibits a large collection of Sino-Western fusion palace clocks, the most famous being the “Gilded Bronze Writing Automaton Clock” (铜镀金写字人钟), a mechanical figure that can dip a brush in ink and write Chinese characters on paper, hailed as Qing court’s “black technology” marvel.

8. Wuying Hall Ceramics Gallery and Wenhua Hall Special Exhibitions

Wuying Hall Ceramics Gallery (武英殿陶瓷馆): Systematically displays the development of ceramics from the Neolithic era to the Qing dynasty, an ideal starting point to understand Chinese ceramic history and aesthetic evolution.
Wenhua Hall (文华殿): Hosts permanent or rotating high-level special exhibitions, such as Sino-Thai cultural relic exhibitions. Exhibits cover artifacts from multiple countries and the history of court exchanges, an important window to understand the Forbidden City’s “global” dimension.

9. Cining Palace Sculpture Gallery (慈宁宫雕塑馆)

Cining Palace (慈宁宫): Former residence of Empress Dowager Xiaozhuang in her later years, now a sculpture gallery.
The gallery houses important sculptures such as Northern Qi Buddhist statues and Ming dynasty Arhat statues, featuring diverse artistic styles. The solemn atmosphere makes it an important place for studying Chinese religious sculpture and court beliefs.

10. Zhai Palace and High-Level Special Exhibitions

Zhai Palace (斋宫): Located in the eastern area, formerly the emperor’s fasting place, now often hosts high-level cultural relic exhibitions.
For example, from July to December 2025, exhibits include the “Han Dynasty Jade Pixiu” and “Qing Dynasty Jade Mountain Depicting Yu the Great Controlling the Flood”.
The main hall’s caisson ceiling decoration is extremely exquisite, a “hidden treasure” both architecturally and exhibition-wise.

2. Classic Recommended Routes (Structure Only; See Itinerary Section for Detailed Timing)

This subsection outlines route structures and coverage areas. For specific visit durations and pacing, please refer to the “Itinerary Examples” section.

Route A: Classic Central Axis Quick Tour (Approx. 2–3 hours)
Meridian Gate (午门) → Taihe Gate (太和门) → Hall of Supreme Harmony (太和殿) → Hall of Central Harmony (中和殿) → Hall of Preserving Harmony (保和殿) → Qianqing Gate (乾清门) → Palace of Heavenly Purity (乾清宫) → Hall of Union (交泰殿) → Palace of Earthly Tranquility (坤宁宫) → Imperial Garden (御花园) → Shenwu Gate (神武门).
Route B: Half-Day Highlights Tour (Approx. 4–5 hours)
Meridian Gate (午门) → Three Great Halls → Cining Palace (Sculpture Gallery) (慈宁宫雕塑馆) → Qianqing Gate (乾清门) → Palace of Heavenly Purity (乾清宫) → Hall of Union (交泰殿) → Palace of Earthly Tranquility (坤宁宫) → West Six Palaces (Yikun Palace/Chuxiu Palace) (翊坤宫/储秀宫) → Imperial Garden (御花园) → Clock Gallery (钟表馆) → Treasure Gallery (珍宝馆) → Shenwu Gate (神武门).
Route C: Full-Day In-Depth Tour (Approx. 7–8 hours)
Meridian Gate (午门) → Wuying Hall (Ceramics Gallery) (武英殿陶瓷馆) → Wenhua Hall (文华殿) → Three Great Halls → Cining Palace (Sculpture Gallery) (慈宁宫雕塑馆) → Qianqing Gate (乾清门) → Palace of Heavenly Purity (乾清宫) → Hall of Union (交泰殿) → Palace of Earthly Tranquility (坤宁宫) → West Six Palaces (Chuxiu/Yikun/Xianfu Palaces) (储秀宫/翊坤宫/咸福宫) → Imperial Garden (御花园) → East Six Palaces (Yanxi Palace etc.) (延禧宫等) → Zhai Palace (斋宫) → Clock Gallery (钟表馆) → Treasure Gallery (Palace of Tranquil Longevity area) (珍宝馆宁寿宫区) → Shenwu Gate (神武门).
Route D: No Backtracking Highlights Route
Meridian Gate (午门) → Taihe Gate (太和门) → Hall of Supreme Harmony (太和殿) → Hall of Central Harmony (中和殿) → Hall of Preserving Harmony (保和殿) → Qianqing Gate (乾清门) → Palace of Heavenly Purity (乾清宫) → Yikun Palace (翊坤宫) → Chuxiu Palace (储秀宫) → Palace of Earthly Tranquility (坤宁宫) → Yanxi Palace (延禧宫) → Jingren Palace (景仁宫) → Nine-Dragon Wall (九龙壁) → Treasure Gallery (珍宝馆) → Imperial Garden (御花园) → Shenwu Gate (神武门).
Route E: 3-Hour Easy Highlights Route
Meridian Gate (午门) → Inner Golden Water Bridge (内金水桥) → Taihe Gate (太和门) → Hall of Supreme Harmony (太和殿) → Hall of Central Harmony (中和殿) → Hall of Preserving Harmony (保和殿) → Clock Gallery (钟表馆) → Treasure Gallery (珍宝馆) → Qianqing Gate (乾清门) → Palace of Heavenly Purity (乾清宫) → Hall of Union (交泰殿) → Palace of Earthly Tranquility (坤宁宫) → Imperial Garden (御花园) → Shenwu Gate (神武门).
Route F: Family Deep Tour + Stamp Collection Route
Duan Gate (端门) → Meridian Gate (午门) → Taihe Gate (太和门) → Hall of Supreme Harmony (太和殿) → Hall of Central Harmony (中和殿) → Hall of Preserving Harmony (保和殿) → Palace of Heavenly Purity (乾清宫) → Hall of Union (交泰殿) → Palace of Earthly Tranquility (坤宁宫) → Jingren Palace (景仁宫) → Yanxi Palace (延禧宫) → Treasure Gallery (珍宝馆) → Nine-Dragon Wall (九龙壁) → Hall of Imperial Supremacy (皇极殿) → Palace of Tranquil Longevity (宁寿宫) → Consort Zhen’s Well (珍妃井) → Shenwu Gate (神武门).

3. Niche and Future Highlights

Qianlong Garden (乾隆花园) (Future Hotspot): Located north of the Palace of Tranquil Longevity area, composed of multiple courtyards, regarded as the pinnacle of Emperor Qianlong’s personal aesthetic. Some art and study authors have designed special content analyzing its spatial layout and decorative details for its “reopening after 100 years.” Once open, it will become a new deep-tour highlight of the Forbidden City.
Forbidden City Palace Cats (故宫御猫): Palace cats distributed around the walls, gardens, and corner towers, called “the meows of the Forbidden City” in family guides. They are children’s favorite “living artifacts” and add a touch of life to the solemn palace spaces.

💡Tips

Practical Visiting Tips

This section provides practical advice on timing, route pitfalls, stamina and gear, ticket grabbing, and safety to help you maintain a pleasant experience amid intense walking and strict security checks.

1. Visiting Time and Avoiding Crowds

Many highly rated notes strongly recommend "not buying morning tickets" because:
- Large tour groups enter the park in the morning, causing queues at the Meridian Gate (午门) that can last 1–2 hours;
- If entering from Tiananmen Square (天安门广场) side, you must go through multiple rounds of security checks, meaning "you walk two kilometers before even entering the Forbidden City (故宫)".
Recommended strategy:
- If you’re not watching the flag-raising ceremony, prioritize the afternoon session, ideally entering around 13:00, when morning visitors have mostly entered and early afternoon arrivals have dispersed, so the crowd is relatively smaller;
- In the winter off-season (November to March), closing time is shortened to about 16:30, with ticket checks stopping at 15:30. Even for afternoon tickets, make sure to reserve at least 3–4 hours.

2. Flag-Raising and Tiananmen Area Notes

Winter flag-raising time is around 7:30. Some guides suggest:
- "After watching the flag-raising, pass under the city tower; the Meridian Gate opens at 8:30, timing is just right."
Gate choices for viewing:
- To see the honor guard, choose Security Check Gates 1 or 2, which are less crowded and offer better views;
- To stand directly in front of the flagpole, choose Gates 3, 4, or 7 (Gate 4 is the most crowded).
For flag-raising, it’s best to travel light:
- Avoid carrying large bags, use a plastic bag for essentials, take them out at security and put them in your pockets for quick checks and to secure a good spot;
Remember: Tiananmen’s Golden Water Bridge (金水桥) is a one-way path “entry only”, returning to the square requires a detour of about half an hour, so plan your route accordingly.

3. Avoiding Route Pitfalls for Entry

It’s not recommended to queue under Tiananmen Tower for direct entry to the Meridian Gate:
- The route is long, with multiple security checks and unpredictable queue times;
It’s better to enter the Meridian Gate Square from Donghuamen (东华门) or Labor People's Cultural Palace (劳动人民文化宫):
- Take Metro Line 8, exit at Jin Yu Hutong (金鱼胡同) Exit C → Dong’anmen Street → Donghuamen → walk along the moat to Meridian Gate, with only one security check;
- Or take Metro Line 1, exit at Tiananmen East (天安门东) Exit B → Nan Chi Zi → alley opposite Hanting Hotel → Labor People's Cultural Palace (¥2 entrance) → exit West Gate which is right at Meridian Gate; in off-season, queues are almost nonexistent.

4. Clothing and Stamina Management

The Forbidden City is huge; many visitors report walking 20,000–30,000 steps, often described as "Beijing tourism is all about walking" and "Beijing really wears out your legs";
Recommendations:
- Wear well-cushioned sports shoes or hiking shoes, avoid new or hard-soled shoes;
- Winter is windy; bring down jackets, hats, gloves, and fully gear up, especially when bringing children—keep them extra warm;
- For kids, bring a lightweight stroller, but be mindful of some steps and uneven stone paths, slow down when pushing;
- Children around 6 years old will still get tired walking 20,000 steps, so plan rest stops inside the exhibition halls and timely snack breaks.

5. Items to Bring and Security Rules

Common prohibited items:
- Tripods, reflectors, selfie sticks longer than 1.3 meters, lighters, etc., will be stopped at security;
Backpacks and security lanes:
- Meridian Gate security has “with bag” and “no bag” lanes; carrying a bag adds about 5 minutes of queue time;
- It’s still recommended to carry a small backpack with water, snacks, power bank, and a light jacket.
Drinks and supplies:
- Bring a thermos with hot water; sipping warm water in the winter wind is very comforting;
- Carry some high-energy snacks like biscuits and nuts to avoid hypoglycemia or exhaustion.

6. Exhibition Hall Hours and Visiting Order

Treasure Gallery and Clock Gallery:
- Close to new entries around 15:40 in off-season, 16:10 in peak season;
- It’s best to visit these two halls earlier in the afternoon to avoid being turned away at the door;
Ticket buying strategy:
- When grabbing main tickets, don’t select Treasure Gallery or Clock Gallery initially to increase success rate;
- On the day of visit, depending on stamina and time, you can scan QR codes at the entrance to add these tickets flexibly;
- If choosing only one, many recommend the Treasure Gallery (Ningshou Palace area 宁寿宫区) for its dense and impressive artifacts; the Clock Gallery suits visitors interested in mechanical structures and “ancient black technology.”

7. Ticket Grabbing and “Returned Tickets” Tips

Tickets are released in batches every night from 20:00 to 21:00; it’s best to enter the mini-program at 19:57 to wait;
If you see messages like “Current number of users is high, please wait” or “Please try again later”:
- Don’t frequently exit and re-enter; instead, swipe left to go back one step and resubmit, repeatedly trying in sync with ticket release times;
“Fully booked” before 20:30 doesn’t necessarily mean no tickets; after 20:30, the remaining tickets shown are more accurate;
If you can’t get tickets that day, watch for “returned tickets” around 20:45, as the system releases tickets when others cancel.

8. Photography and Equipment Tips

Composition tips:
- Use doorways and corridor pillars as foregrounds, e.g., framing the Hall of Supreme Harmony (太和门) through the Meridian Gate arch, or framing the Inner Golden Water Bridge (内金水桥) corridor at Xiehe Gate (协和门);
- For details like bronze lions and ridge beasts, try low-angle shots to emphasize majesty and layers;
- When shooting caissons (藻井) in pavilions like Qianqiu Pavilion (千秋亭), Wanchun Pavilion (万春亭), and Zhai Palace (斋宫), stand directly underneath and use a wide-angle lens looking up, keeping the image centered and symmetrical.
Seasonal notes:
- After winter snow, focus on the contrast between red walls and white snow; watch for slippery soles and protect your camera from moisture;
- In summer’s strong light, use a polarizing filter to reduce glare.

9. Special Tips for Families and Study Tours

Age and stamina considerations:
- Children aged 2–4 are not suited for full-day walking; they tend to fall asleep in strollers and are prone to catching colds in the wind;
- Children aged 7–14 can benefit from study guides or family explanations, following the “20 main halls detailed tour” route to avoid “everything looks the same” fatigue.
Interactive methods:
- Increase interest by searching for “roof monsters (蹲兽),” “auspicious beast patterns,” and “imperial cats”;
- Combine stamp collecting, simple drawing tasks to help kids remember routes and architectural features (specific stamp locations are detailed in highlights and itinerary sections).

10. Safety and Order

There are many stone steps and platforms; wet or snowy weather makes them slippery—watch your step and avoid looking down at your phone while walking;
Absolutely no climbing over railings, touching artifacts, or carving on ancient buildings; if you see uncivil behavior, kindly remind or report to staff promptly;
Follow on-site one-way routes and crowd control measures, especially at Tiananmen Golden Water Bridge and some palace gates, to avoid congestion and wrong-way walking;
If carrying large luggage, free storage is available outside Meridian Gate at the “Visitor Service Center,” with pick-up options at Shenwu Gate (神武门) or Donghuamen (东华门); luggage must be retrieved before 17:00.

🍜Food Nearby

Dining Options and Meal Strategies Inside and Around the Palace Museum

This section focuses on dining choices within the Palace Museum (故宫) and its walking vicinity, covering prices, specialties, and suitable meal times to help you plan your energy replenishment during intense sightseeing.

1. Dining Inside the Palace Museum

1. Ice Cellar Restaurant / Ice Cellar Café (Near Cining Palace 慈宁宫)

Location and Ambiance:
- Located near Cining Palace, transformed from an old royal ice cellar, featuring brick vaulted ceilings and thick walls that retain clear historical traces;
- The indoor space is relatively spacious and is one of the most popular rest and dining spots inside the Palace.
Dishes and Prices (Based on Actual Experience):
- Chicken Leg Burger: Mentioned in family travel notes as purchasing 2;
- Ham Panini: Paired with the chicken leg burgers, 2 chicken leg burgers + 1 ham panini cost ¥70 (~$10 USD), considered quite affordable within the scenic area;
- Hot Milk Tea: Relatively expensive, usually over ¥30 (~$4.50 USD), great for warming up in winter;
- Free warm water is available; visitors with thermos bottles can refill hot drinks here.
Suitable For and Timing:
- Families with children, visitors seeking warmth in winter, and those needing a rest after tiring walks;
- Recommended to avoid the noon peak by dining before 11:00 AM or after 1:30 PM for a less crowded experience.

2. Jingyunmen Restaurant

Location:
- Near Jingyunmen Gate (east side of the central axis), many half-day and full-day routes pass by here;
Features:
- Offers simple meals and set menus, mainly Chinese fast food and basic Western-style simple dishes;
- Suitable as a midway replenishment point for lunch or afternoon snacks.

3. Wanfu Jin Chun Afternoon Tea

Location and Format:
- Located in a specific area inside the Palace Museum (follow on-site guidance), often featured in “Palace Museum Afternoon Tea” guides;
Features:
- Focuses on imperial-style afternoon tea with exquisitely plated snacks and a relatively quiet environment;
- Prices are higher than ordinary simple meals, ideal for visitors with a sufficient budget and ample time who want to experience the ritual of “having afternoon tea inside the Palace.”
Recommended Pairing:
- Better paired with morning tickets: visit buildings and exhibitions in the morning, then have lunch or early afternoon tea here to avoid a rushed afternoon.

4. Small Shops and Snack Stalls Inside the Palace

Distribution:
- Scattered small shops and snack windows near the central axis and some exhibition halls;
Items Sold:
- Bottled drinks, mineral water, ice cream, packaged snacks, etc.;
Price Characteristics:
- Generally higher than convenience stores in the city but still practical during intense walking;
Suggestions:
- Bring some snacks and water yourself and replenish energy timely without affecting the environment;
- In summer, control intake of sugary drinks to avoid discomfort from excessive consumption in a short time.

2. Dining Options Within Walking Distance Around the Palace Museum

1. Heyan Meat Pie (河沿肉饼)

Location:
- Located east of the Palace Museum, in the hutongs outside Donghuamen Gate (东华门), along the moat (“Heyan” means along the moat);
- Accessible by walking from Donghuamen or Metro Line 8, Jinyu Hutong Station (金鱼胡同站), suitable as a dining spot before or after entering the Palace.
Features and Recommendations:
- Specializes in freshly baked meat pies with crispy crust and juicy filling, solid texture;
- Often paired with sour plum juice or soy milk, a favorite simple meal for locals and tourists alike;
- Prices are quite affordable, suitable for budget-conscious visitors or those who don’t want to spend much time on a full meal.

2. Siji Minfu Roast Duck (Near Palace Museum / Jingshan 景山)

Location:
- Multiple branches near Donghuamen Gate and Jingshan East Street;
- Walkable from Shenwumen Gate or Donghuamen Gate, ideal for dinner after a “Palace Museum + Jingshan” itinerary.
Dish Highlights:
- Peking Duck (Sliced Skin-on Roast Duck): Crispy skin and tender meat, served with sugar garlic, cucumber sticks, sweet bean sauce, and thin pancakes—a popular way to experience Beijing roast duck;
- Candied Hawthorn Yam (Tanghulu Shan Yao): Yam made into candied hawthorn style, sweet and sour, great for photos and sharing;
- Other dishes like crispy shrimp and Beijing-style hot dishes offer a more mainstream taste, suitable for family and friends dining.
Dining Tips:
- During holidays and dinner peak times, book online in advance to avoid long waits;
- Recommended as a “ceremonial ending” to your day after sightseeing.

3. Yuebin Restaurant (Near Dongsi 东四)

Location:
- Near Dongsi and Dongsi Shitiao, about a 10-minute taxi ride from the east side of the Palace Museum;
Features:
- A long-established Beijing home-style restaurant known for authentic Beijing flavors and affordable prices;
- Dishes lean local in taste, perfect for visitors wanting to experience “what Beijing locals eat daily”;
Suitable For:
- Families or backpackers who don’t care about the view but want a genuine Beijing meal.

4. Jinyu Hutong Station Food Court

Location:
- Next to Exit C stairs of Metro Line 8, Jinyu Hutong Station (金鱼胡同站);
Features:
- Houses multiple fast food and snack brands, covering Chinese simple meals, noodles, snacks, and beverages;
- Prices are comparable to city mall food courts, with many choices and quick table turnover;
Suitable Scenarios:
- As a breakfast spot before smoothly entering the Palace;
- A quick dinner option after leaving the Palace without wanting to walk far.

3. Meal Timing and Route Pairing Suggestions

1. Meal Strategy with Morning Tickets

Before Entering:
- Have a simple breakfast at Jinyu Hutong Station Food Court or around Tian’anmen East;
Lunch Inside:
- Eat at Ice Cellar Restaurant or Jingyunmen Restaurant and rest a bit;
Dinner After Leaving:
- Walk from Shenwumen Gate to Jingshan East Street and choose Siji Minfu Roast Duck;
- Or exit from Donghuamen Gate and head to Heyan Meat Pie for a light dinner.

2. Meal Strategy with Afternoon Tickets

Before Entering:
- It’s recommended to eat well outside the Meridian Gate (午门) or near Jinyu Hutong Station to avoid spending too much time queuing inside;
During Visit:
- Mainly rely on snacks and hot drinks from Ice Cellar Café to replenish energy timely;
After Leaving:
- Depending on your energy, choose nearby Heyan Meat Pie, Siji Minfu, or head to Wangfujing or Qianmen areas for more dining options.

4. Overall Dining Recommendations

Dining inside the Palace Museum focuses on convenience, warmth, and rest; prices are slightly higher but generally reasonable;
Outside the palace walls, options range from metro food courts to long-established Beijing restaurants and trendy roast duck shops, allowing flexible choices based on budget and time;
Considering the high intensity of sightseeing, prioritize restaurants close by with short wait times to avoid spending too much energy and time on meals.

🏨Accommodation

Recommended Nearby Accommodations and Area Selection Strategies

The Forbidden City (故宫) is located at the core of Beijing’s old city central axis. There are no accommodations inside the palace walls, and the surrounding areas are mainly traditional hutong neighborhoods and government offices. When choosing accommodation, the principle should be "convenient for early morning and evening access to the Forbidden City, while also considering other downtown attractions," making full use of the convenience of Metro Line 1 and Line 8.

1. Walking/Short-Distance Direct Access Areas

1. Tiananmen East—Nanchizi—Jinyu Hutong—Wangfujing Area

Suitable for:

First-time visitors to Beijing who want to focus on the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, Wangfujing, and Qianmen;
Families and foreign tourists who prefer to walk to and from the Forbidden City in the morning and evening.

Area Advantages:

Most hotels are within a 10–20 minute walk to the Meridian Gate (午门) or the Labor People’s Cultural Palace entrance;
You can take smooth routes such as "Tiananmen East Exit B—Nanchizi—Labor People’s Cultural Palace—Meridian Gate" or "Jinyu Hutong Station Exit C—Donghuamen—Meridian Gate";
The area offers abundant dining, shopping, and metro lines, convenient for combining visits to Wangfujing Pedestrian Street and Qianmen Street.

Representative Accommodation Types:

Chain Business Hotels:
- Many chain brands are distributed around Nanchizi and Jinyu Hutong, such as the “Hanting Hotel (near Nanchizi)” mentioned in the guide, which itself is an important landmark on the Labor People’s Cultural Palace route;
- Mid-range prices with standardized facilities, suitable for families and young travelers who value cost performance.
Mid-to-High-End Hotels:
- There are several 4-star and 5-star hotels along Wangfujing Street and nearby, such as Wangfujing Hotel and Beijing International Hotel;
- Suitable for families or foreign tourists with sufficient budget who want comfortable stays and higher standards for service and breakfast.

2. Jingshan Park—Shichahai—Nanluoguxiang Area

Suitable for:

Visitors who value the authentic old Beijing lifestyle atmosphere;
Deep travelers who want to link "Forbidden City + Jingshan + Shichahai/Nanluoguxiang" into one itinerary.

Area Advantages:

The south gate of Jingshan Park is right opposite the Shenwumen Gate (神武门) of the Forbidden City, so staying around Jingshan East Street and Di’anmen makes seamless connections between the Forbidden City and Jingshan easy;
Strong hutong atmosphere with many boutique guesthouses converted from traditional siheyuan courtyards, offering an experience of “living in an old Beijing courtyard”;
In the evening, you can walk to Shichahai and Nanluoguxiang for strolls and dining, enjoying the old city vibe under the night sky.

Notes:

Some hutong roads are narrow, making driving or taxi access inconvenient;
The quality of siheyuan guesthouses varies, so carefully check recent guest reviews, paying attention to heating, soundproofing, and hygiene.

2. Metro Direct Access Business Districts

1. Dongdan—Jianguomen—Chaoyangmen Line

Suitable for:

Mixed business and tourism trips;
Visitors who want convenient access not only to the Forbidden City but also to the National Museum, Temple of Heaven, Sanlitun, etc.

Area Advantages:

Intersection of Metro Line 1 and Line 2, making it easy to reach Tiananmen East/West, Qianmen, and Wangfujing;
Numerous business hotels and international brand hotels with complete facilities and standardized services;
Short taxi rides to Donghuamen and Jinyu Hutong stations with relatively controlled costs.

Drawbacks:

Compared to Wangfujing and Nanchizi, walking distance to the Forbidden City is slightly farther, usually requiring metro or taxi rides.

2. Xidan—Financial Street Area

Suitable for:

Visitors who prefer the Xicheng District atmosphere and want to balance shopping with the Financial Street business area.

Area Advantages:

Metro Line 1 directly reaches Tiananmen West, with convenient transfers and travel;
Mature commercial facilities with abundant shopping centers and dining options;
Fewer tourists compared to Wangfujing, resulting in a generally quieter environment.

Drawbacks:

Walking distance to the Forbidden City is far, requiring metro or taxi; more commuting time should be reserved during morning rush hours.

3. Budget and Audience Matching Suggestions

1. Higher Budget: Families/Foreign Tourists/Comfort-Oriented

Recommended Areas: Wangfujing, Jinyu Hutong, Dongdan;
Accommodation Types: 4-star, 5-star hotels or high-quality serviced apartments;
Advantages:
- Walking or short metro rides to the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square;
- Better hotel services and foreign language support, suitable for travelers with elderly, children, or foreign friends.

2. Medium Budget: Young Couples/Friends Traveling Together

Recommended Areas: Nanchizi, Jinyu Hutong, around Jingshan East Street;
Accommodation Types: Chain business hotels, mid-range design hotels, small boutique inns;
Advantages:
- Enjoy the “smooth entry to the palace” routes while controlling accommodation costs;
- Evening walks to Wangfujing or Shichahai for dining and shopping, with a rich local life atmosphere.

3. Limited Budget: Students/Backpackers

Recommended Areas: Along Metro Line 2 (e.g., Gulou Dajie, Yonghegong, Chaoyangmen);
Accommodation Types: Youth hostels, budget chain hotels;
Advantages:
- Lower room rates compared to the city center core, high cost performance;
- Via Metro Line 2 transfers to Line 1 or Line 8, you can reach the Forbidden City area within 30–40 minutes;
Notes:
- Allow more commuting time and plan early departures and late returns;
- When choosing hostels, pay attention to safety and hygiene reviews.

4. Overall Area Selection Recommendations

If the trip focuses primarily on the Forbidden City and you want convenient early morning and evening access, prioritize accommodation around "Tiananmen East—Nanchizi—Jinyu Hutong—Wangfujing";
If you value the old Beijing lifestyle atmosphere and multiple attractions combined, consider siheyuan guesthouses in the "Jingshan—Shichahai—Nanluoguxiang" area;
Regardless of the area chosen, leverage the convenience of Metro Line 1 and Line 8 to ensure you can reach Donghuamen or Meridian Gate within 30 minutes in the morning, laying a solid foundation for a full day of sightseeing.

🗺️Itinerary

Sample One-Day Itinerary: The Forbidden City (故宫) + Jingshan Park (景山) Panoramic Experience

This itinerary is designed for a full day, ideal for first-time visitors to Beijing who want to systematically explore the architecture, key exhibition halls of the Forbidden City, and enjoy the panoramic views from Jingshan Park all in one day. The default choice is the afternoon ticket, which avoids the morning peak of tour groups and allows you to watch the sunset from Jingshan in the evening.

Times are for reference only and can be adjusted flexibly based on the season (earlier closing in winter), personal stamina, and interests.

08:30–10:30 Arrival in Beijing and Getting to the Forbidden City

Departure from accommodation:
- If staying near Tiananmen East (天安门东), Wangfujing (王府井), or Jinyu Hutong (金鱼胡同), you can walk to the metro or directly walk to Nanchizi (南池子) / Donghuamen (东华门);
- If staying elsewhere, it is recommended to take Metro Line 8 to Jinyu Hutong Station Exit C (金鱼胡同站 C 口), or Line 1 to Tiananmen East Station Exit B (天安门东 B 口) following the route via the Working People's Cultural Palace (劳动人民文化宫).
Recommended route to enter the palace:
- Option A: Jinyu Hutong Exit C → Dong’anmen Street → Donghuamen → Walk along the moat to Meridian Gate (午门) Square;
- Option B: Tiananmen East Exit B → Nanchizi Street → Hutong opposite Hanting Hotel → Working People's Cultural Palace (2 RMB entrance fee) → Walk inside the palace to the West Gate exit → Meridian Gate Square.
Around 10:00, arrive at Meridian Gate Square, take some photos, and soak in the grandeur of the red walls and gate towers to warm up for the official afternoon entry.

10:30–12:00 Free Time at Tiananmen Square or Wangfujing (Optional)

Depending on your interests and energy levels, you can choose:

Option 1: Stroll around Tiananmen Square
Exit from Tiananmen East/West metro stations, walk around the square, admire the Great Hall of the People, the National Museum of China, and the Monument to the People's Heroes from a distance, and feel the vast scale of Beijing’s central axis;
Option 2: Wander Wangfujing Pedestrian Street
Take the metro or walk to Wangfujing, browse shops, buy some snacks or drinks to recharge for the afternoon walking tour;
Option 3: Short rest at the hotel
If you arrived late the previous night or are traveling with elderly or children, rest at the hotel to conserve energy.

12:00–13:00 Lunch and Preparation for Entry

Lunch suggestions:
- Near Jinyu Hutong Station, you can have lunch at the Jinyu Hutong Station Food Court, choosing fast food or simple meals;
- Near Wangfujing, dine at mall food courts or street-side restaurants;
Entry preparation:
- Make sure to bring your original ID card/passport and have your phone charged;
- Pack water, snacks, a power bank, tissues, and a light jacket in your backpack;
- Allow about 20–30 minutes for walking and security checks to ensure you arrive at Meridian Gate in time for your reserved afternoon entry slot.

13:00–15:30 Central Axis + Cining Palace (慈宁宫) + West Six Palaces (西六宫) Highlights Tour

This stage focuses on experiencing the Forbidden City’s “front court and rear chambers” layout and the living spaces of the inner palace, with a moderate pace balancing architecture and atmosphere.

1. Meridian Gate → Inner Golden Water Bridge → Gate of Supreme Harmony → The Three Great Halls

After entering through Meridian Gate with your ticket, first take photos of the classic view of the Inner Golden Water Bridge (内金水桥) flanked by Xiehemen and Xihemen corridors, with the Gate of Supreme Harmony (太和门) in the background;
Visit in order: Gate of Supreme Harmony (太和门), Hall of Supreme Harmony (太和殿), Hall of Central Harmony (中和殿), Hall of Preserving Harmony (保和殿), paying attention to:
- The Ten Ridges and Ten Statues on the roof of the Hall of Supreme Harmony;
- The Cloud and Dragon Stone Carvings on the rear steps of the Hall of Preserving Harmony;
It is recommended to spend about 40–60 minutes in the Three Great Halls area, take photos but avoid prolonged sun exposure in the square (especially in summer).

2. Cining Palace Sculpture Museum and Cining Palace Garden

From the side passage of the Hall of Preserving Harmony, head to Cining Palace;
Inside the Sculpture Museum, admire Northern Qi Buddhist statues, Ming Dynasty Arhat statues, and feel the religious art atmosphere distinct from the central axis palaces;
After the exhibition hall, spend some time in the Cining Palace Garden, enjoying the red walls, bamboo shadows, and floral scenery;
Allocate 40–50 minutes here, which also serves as a short rest.

3. Gate of Heavenly Purity → Palace of Heavenly Purity → Hall of Union → Palace of Earthly Tranquility → West Six Palaces

Pass through Gate of Heavenly Purity (乾清门) into the inner court, visiting in order:
- Palace of Heavenly Purity (乾清宫): look for the “Zheng Da Guang Ming” plaque and learn about the secret imperial succession system;
- Hall of Union (交泰殿): learn about the empress’s duties and the story of the “Twenty-Five Treasures”;
- Palace of Earthly Tranquility (坤宁宫): understand the layout and ceremonies of Qing Dynasty emperors’ wedding chambers;
Then enter the West Six Palaces (西六宫) area, with highlights including:
- Chuxiu Palace (储秀宫): Cixi’s late-life residence and power base;
- Yikun Palace (翊坤宫): the residence of consorts made famous by the TV drama Story of Yanxi Palace (延禧攻略);
Plan for 60–70 minutes here, slowing down in the quiet courtyards of the West Six Palaces to feel the daily life of the inner palace.

15:30–16:30 Imperial Garden + Clock Museum + Treasure Gallery

This stage focuses on the “most beautiful ceilings,” imperial clocks, and treasures of the Palace of Longevity and Peace, noting the closing times of each hall.

1. Stroll in the Imperial Garden

Enter the Imperial Garden (御花园) from the north side of Palace of Earthly Tranquility, visiting Dui Xiu Hill, Qianqiu Pavilion, Wanchun Pavilion, etc.;
Look up at the caisson ceilings under Qianqiu Pavilion and Wanchun Pavilion for symmetrical photo compositions;
Pause among the garden’s stone paths and ancient trees to refresh yourself before visiting the exhibition halls;
Recommended stay: 20–30 minutes.

2. Fengxian Hall Clock Museum

From the east side of the Imperial Garden, proceed to Fengxian Hall Clock Museum (奉先殿钟表馆);
Focus on the gilded bronze writing clock that can write Chinese calligraphy and other Sino-Western hybrid clocks;
Recommended stay: 20–30 minutes, arriving early enough based on the daily closing time (around 15:40 in low season, 16:10 in peak season).

3. Treasure Gallery in the Palace of Longevity and Peace Area

Continue east to the Palace of Longevity and Peace (宁寿宫区) and enter the Treasure Gallery (珍宝馆):
- Visit buildings like Huangji Hall, Yangxing Hall, and Leshou Hall;
- Focus on major exhibits such as Empress Xiaoduan’s kingfisher feather phoenix crown, Empress Xiaojing’s phoenix crown, and Qianlong’s gold pagoda;
- Pause in front of the Nine-Dragon Wall (九龙壁) to experience the visual impact of nine giant dragons leaping on the glazed wall;
Allocate 40–60 minutes, adjusting based on your stamina and interests.

16:30–17:00 Exit via Shenwu Gate and Short Rest

Walk northwest from the Palace of Longevity and Peace area following signs, passing through courtyards to reach Shenwu Gate (神武门);
After exiting Shenwu Gate, rest briefly in the square, organize photos, and hydrate;
If you have stored luggage, retrieve it from your chosen location (Shenwu Gate or Donghuamen) before 17:00.

17:00–18:30 Climb Jingshan Park for the “Golden Forbidden City” View

Jingshan Park tickets are inexpensive and it is located just north of the Forbidden City, making it an ideal way to end your day tour.

After exiting Shenwu Gate, cross the street to the South Gate of Jingshan Park (景山公园南门);
Buy tickets and ascend the steps slowly toward the highest point, Wanchun Pavilion (万春亭):
- Along the way, enjoy views of the Forbidden City at various heights, observing the central axis and the layered rooftops;
- From Wanchun Pavilion, the entire Forbidden City’s red walls and yellow tiles spread out beneath you, especially stunning at sunset;
Recommended stay: 60–90 minutes, adjusting your climb time based on the season:
- Summer and autumn: aim to reach the top 30–40 minutes before sunset to capture the “golden Forbidden City”;
- Winter: sunset is earlier, so check sunset times in advance and exit the palace accordingly.

After 18:30 Dinner and Return to Hotel

After leaving Jingshan Park from the south or west gate, you can choose to:
- Walk to the nearby Siji Minfu Roast Duck Restaurant (四季民福烤鸭店) on Jingshan East Street for a roast duck feast to end your day (advance online reservation recommended);
- Or take a taxi/walk to Donghuamen area to try local snacks like Heyan Meat Pie (河沿肉饼);
After dinner, take the metro or taxi back to your hotel to conclude your day.

Half-Day Itinerary (For Those with Limited Time)

If you only have half a day, here is a simplified afternoon route for reference:

13:00–13:30 Enter Meridian Gate, take photos at Inner Golden Water Bridge;
13:30–14:30 Visit the Three Great Halls (Hall of Supreme Harmony, Hall of Central Harmony, Hall of Preserving Harmony);
14:30–15:30 Gate of Heavenly Purity → Palace of Heavenly Purity → Hall of Union → Palace of Earthly Tranquility;
15:30–16:00 Imperial Garden (caisson ceilings at Qianqiu Pavilion and Wanchun Pavilion);
16:00–16:30 Exit via Shenwu Gate, decide based on time and energy whether to climb Jingshan or head straight to dinner.

This condensed itinerary can be completed in 3–4 hours and is suitable for visitors short on time but still wanting to experience the core highlights along the Forbidden City’s central axis.

Based on 44 articlesModel: gpt-5.1