Zhonghe Hall

Introducing Zhonghe Hall

The Hall of Central Harmony is one of the three main halls of the Forbidden City's outer court. A traditional Ming and Qing dynasty palace building, it is located between the Hall of Supreme Harmony and the Hall of Preserving Harmony in the Forbidden City. First built during the Yongle reign of the Ming Dynasty, it was originally named the Huagai Hall. Rebuilt during the Jiajing reign of the Ming Dynasty, it was renamed the Zhongji Hall. After the Shunzhi Emperor of the Qing Dynasty ascended to the throne, the name was changed to the Hall of Central Harmony, meaning to uphold the doctrine of the mean and seek peace and harmony under heaven. It was where the emperor rested before attending ceremonies in the Hall of Supreme Harmony and where he received homage from officials.

The Hall of Central Harmony stands 19 meters tall, with a single-eaved, four-cornered pavilion. Its roof is covered in yellow glazed tiles and features a copper-plated, gilded dome. It is the smallest of the three main halls, housing the emperor's throne in its center, free of any extraneous furnishings. Drains shaped like dragon heads are located on the platform that houses the Halls of Supreme Harmony, Central Harmony, and Preservative Harmony. When it rains, these drains spray water together, creating the spectacle of "a thousand dragons spitting water."

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 half an hour

Tickets

60 yuan in peak season, 40 yuan in off-season (included in the Forbidden City ticket)

Attraction opening hours

08:30-16:00

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Most Popular FAQs for Zhonghe Hall

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

Zhonghe Hall, located within Beijing's ancient sites, is a historical hall with strong cultural ties to Chinese heritage. It holds important relics and is a symbol of the city's deep-rooted traditions and historical significance in Chinese governance and architecture.

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

Zhonghe Hall is located in the heart of Beijing, accessible by metro (lines 1 or 2, stop at Xidan Station), taxi, or a short walk from surrounding historical attractions. Buses also pass through nearby stops.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Zhonghe Hall is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a quieter experience.

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

The entrance fee for Zhonghe Hall is approximately 30 CNY. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance or online through official websites or apps.

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

It is not necessary to book tickets in advance unless visiting during peak tourist seasons or holidays. If you prefer, tickets can be booked online at least one day before your visit.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Exploring Zhonghe Hall thoroughly typically takes 1 to 2 hours, depending on your interest in the exhibits and architecture.

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

The main highlights include the hall's grand architecture, ancient artifacts, and historical exhibitions on Chinese culture. The interior's intricate designs and artworks are also worth seeing.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin and English. Audio guides are also offered for self-guided tours in multiple languages, including English.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots are inside the main hall, where you can capture the unique architectural features. The surrounding gardens also offer beautiful backdrops for photos.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by exploring the grand entrance, then move to the main hall and examine the exhibits. Finish by walking through the surrounding gardens for a complete experience of the site.

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

Night visits and special light shows are not available. However, the hall offers cultural events and exhibitions during the day, so it's best to visit during daylight hours to make the most of your experience.

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

Zhonghe Hall can get crowded during weekends and holidays. The least crowded times are early mornings on weekdays, especially from Monday to Thursday.

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

The hall provides basic facilities, including restrooms and drinking water stations. There are no restaurants inside, but small food stalls and shops are located nearby.

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

Yes, the attraction is accessible for elderly, children, and disabled visitors, though there may be some stairs inside the main hall. Wheelchair access is available at the entrance and in most public areas.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Both cash and mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are accepted at Zhonghe Hall. Credit and debit cards may not be widely accepted, so it’s best to carry cash or use mobile payments.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are no restaurants inside Zhonghe Hall, but nearby areas like Xidan and Wangfujing have numerous restaurants and cafes offering a variety of cuisines.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan food options are widely available in nearby restaurants. Halal food is also found in the surrounding areas, particularly in Beijing's Muslim Quarter.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Several hotels are located near Zhonghe Hall, including luxury options like the Beijing Hotel and mid-range accommodations in Xidan and Wangfujing. Budget hotels and guesthouses are also available nearby.

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

Nearby attractions include the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, and Jingshan Park. These sites are within walking distance or a short taxi ride from Zhonghe Hall, making them ideal for a day trip.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are souvenir shops near Zhonghe Hall offering traditional Chinese handicrafts, paintings, tea, and souvenirs reflecting Chinese culture.

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

After visiting Zhonghe Hall, the best options for continuing your trip are metro lines 1 or 2, available from nearby stations like Xidan Station, or taking a taxi to your next destination.