Donghuamen

Introducing Donghuamen

Donghuamen, the eastern gate of the Forbidden City, was built in 1420, the 18th year of the Yongle reign of the Ming Dynasty. Unlike the other three gates, Donghuamen is located near the Crown Prince's Palace and was specifically used for the Crown Prince to enter and exit the Forbidden City. Therefore, it has only eight rows of door nails. After the death of a Qing Dynasty emperor, the funeral procession and the reception of his coffin would all exit through Donghuamen, leading to its nickname, "Gate of Ghosts."

Outside Donghua Gate stands a stone tablet for dismounting. Inside, the Jinshui River flows north and south. Atop the city platform stands a tower, featuring a double-eaved, yellow-glazed tile roof and a base surrounded by white marble railings. From the tower, one can admire the magnificent grand palace in the distance. The tower's beams are painted with large, black-line, gold-dot spiral patterns. The "Donghua Gate" plaque under the east eaves originally in Manchu, Mongolian, and Chinese characters, but was later reduced to Manchu and Chinese. After the Xinhai Revolution, only the bronze Chinese characters remained.

Climate and best time to travel

North temperate semi-humid continental monsoon climate;

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

It is recommended to visit for about 1 hour

Tickets

Included in the Palace Museum ticket

Attraction opening hours

Peak season (April 1st - October 31st) 8:30-17:00

The off-season is from November 1st to March 31st of the following year, 8:30-16:30, and closed on Mondays.

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Most Popular FAQs for Donghuamen

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Donghuamen is famous for its historical significance as a former imperial entrance and its modern-day role as a vibrant street food market. It embodies Beijing's fusion of ancient culture with contemporary culinary traditions.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Donghuamen is located near the famous Wangfujing shopping district. It can be easily accessed via the Beijing Metro (Line 1, Wangfujing Station), by taxi, or by walking from nearby landmarks like the Forbidden City.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The market is open in the evening, typically from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM, making it the best time to visit. It’s most lively in the late evening, especially on weekends.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

There is no entrance fee for Donghuamen Night Market; it is free to explore. You pay directly at the food stalls for what you order.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

No advance booking is required for visiting the market, as it is open to the public with no restrictions.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Exploring the market typically takes around 1 to 2 hours, depending on how much you wish to eat and explore.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• The variety of street foods, including skewers, dumplings, and traditional Beijing snacks.
• The vibrant atmosphere with busy stalls and colorful lights.
• The cultural elements, with vendors offering unique local snacks and souvenirs.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are not typically available at the night market, but many vendors can provide insights into their food offerings in Mandarin. Tourists may benefit from a self-guided experience or a local guide to explain the food culture.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

Best photography spots include the lively food stalls, the illuminated signs of the market, and the busy crowds in the evening. The market's vibrancy makes for great street photography.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at the entrance and slowly work your way through the food stalls. Stop to try different dishes as you go, and take time to capture the lively atmosphere. End at the last stalls where you can enjoy dessert or snacks.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits are the highlight of Donghuamen, with its street lights creating a lively atmosphere. There are no specific light shows, but the neon signs and food stalls add to the vibrant visual appeal at night.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

It can get very crowded, especially on weekends and holidays. The best time to visit for fewer crowds is on weekdays, particularly in the early evening, before 7:00 PM.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Toilets are available, and there are plenty of food stalls. There are limited seating areas, but you can stand and eat as you go. The area has small shops selling souvenirs as well.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The market can be crowded and not very accessible for elderly or disabled visitors due to the narrow paths and crowds. Children can enjoy the lively atmosphere but should be watched closely due to the busy environment.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted. Some vendors may also accept cash, but it's best to have mobile payment options ready.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Nearby restaurants include a mix of local Beijing cuisine and international options along Wangfujing. You can find cafes and small eateries offering snacks and beverages.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Some stalls offer vegetarian options, including vegetarian dumplings and grilled vegetables. Halal food can also be found, particularly kebabs and lamb dishes.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several hotels nearby, including luxury options like the Wangfujing Grand Hotel and budget accommodations in the Wangfujing area.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• The Forbidden City
• Tiananmen Square
• The National Museum of China
• Jingshan Park

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are small souvenir shops around the market selling items like traditional Chinese handicrafts, clothing, and food-related souvenirs.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

Taxis and ride-hailing services are convenient options. The metro (Line 1, Wangfujing Station) is also nearby for easy access to other parts of Beijing.