Paiyun Hall

Introducing Paiyun Hall

The Hall of Dispelling Clouds is located in the center of the buildings in front of Wanshou Hill in the Summer Palace. It was originally the Great Temple of Longevity and Gratitude built by Emperor Qianlong for his mother's 60th birthday. It was renamed the Hall of Dispelling Clouds when Empress Dowager Cixi rebuilt it. It was the place where she received worship on her birthday. It is now an original display area of ​​the royal palace history of the Summer Palace.

This architectural complex is the most spectacular of the Summer Palace's architectural ensembles. It comprises the Cloud Dispelling Gate, Yuhua Hall, Yunjin Hall, Ergong Gate, Fanghui Hall, Zixiao Hall, Dispelling Clouds Hall, Dehui Hall, and connecting corridors and ancillary rooms. The Cloud Dispelling Hall, built on a high platform and featuring a double-eaved hip roof, reveals a dazzling display of overlapping corners and vibrant glazed tiles.

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 1 to 2 hours

Tickets

Included in the Summer Palace scenic area ticket

Attraction opening hours

Peak season: April 1st to October 31st, 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM

Off-season: November 1st to March 31st, 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM

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Most Popular FAQs for Paiyun Hall

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

Paiyun Hall is part of the historic palace complexes in Beijing, reflecting traditional Chinese architecture and imperial culture. It served as a ceremonial hall and is significant for understanding the social and political life of the time.

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

Paiyun Hall is located within the Forbidden City in Beijing. It is accessible by taking the Beijing Metro to Tiananmen East or West Station, then walking into the palace grounds. Taxis or ride-hailing services can also drop visitors near the entrance.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The Forbidden City, including Paiyun Hall, generally opens from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM, with last entry around 4:00 PM. Mornings on weekdays are best to avoid crowds.

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

Entrance tickets to the Forbidden City are around 60 CNY (peak season) and 40 CNY (off-peak). Tickets can be purchased online via official websites or offline at the ticket office.

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

Advance booking is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons. Tickets can be booked up to 30 days in advance online.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

1–2 hours are sufficient to explore Paiyun Hall specifically, though visiting the entire Forbidden City may take 3–5 hours.

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

• The ceremonial hall and its traditional architecture.
• Wooden carvings and decorative roof structures.
• Exhibition areas displaying imperial artifacts or cultural exhibits.

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

Guided tours are available in English and Chinese. Audio guides can often be rented on-site in multiple languages including English, Japanese, and Korean.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Front courtyard of Paiyun Hall.
• Hall interior showing decorative beams and carvings.
• Rooflines with traditional Chinese motifs.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Enter from the main courtyard, explore the central hall, then move through adjacent exhibition rooms, and finish with exterior photography at the rear garden or side courtyards.

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

Night visits are generally not available. Special exhibitions may occur seasonally within the Forbidden City, but light shows are rare.

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

Weekdays and mornings are less crowded. Peak crowds occur on weekends and public holidays.

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

Basic facilities such as restrooms, drinking fountains, and souvenir shops are available within the Forbidden City. Food stalls are limited.

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

Some areas have steps and uneven ground. Elderly and children can visit, but disabled access is limited, so bringing assistance may be necessary.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Tickets and purchases can generally be paid with cash, Chinese mobile payment apps, and some credit cards at official counters.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Nearby Tiananmen Square and Wangfujing area offer numerous restaurants and cafes, including local Beijing cuisine and international options.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and halal food options are available in nearby restaurants around Wangfujing and Dongcheng District.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Beijing Hotel
• Grand Hyatt Beijing
• Novotel Beijing Peace

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

• Tiananmen Square
• Mao Zedong Memorial Hall
• Jingshan Park (north of the Forbidden City)
• Wangfujing shopping street

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops around the Forbidden City sell Chinese art, calligraphy, silk products, fans, and miniature palace models.

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

• Beijing Metro (Tiananmen East/West Station)
• Taxis or ride-hailing services like DiDi
• Walking to nearby Wangfujing, Jingshan Park, or other central Beijing attractions