Jiaotai Hall

Introducing Jiaotai Hall

Jiaotai Hall, a historic Ming and Qing dynasty palace, is one of the three inner palaces of the Forbidden City in Beijing, situated between the Palace of Heavenly Purity and the Palace of Earthly Tranquility. During the Ming and Qing dynasties, Jiaotai Hall was used for ceremonies such as the enthronement ceremony and the empress's birthday. The empress received respect from the imperial concubines here, and the day before she went to the Western Garden to personally gather mulberry leaves and feed silkworms on the Spring Equinox, she would inspect her mulberry picking tools here.

Above the throne in the center of the hall hangs a plaque inscribed with the Chinese character "Wuwei" (Wuwei) by Emperor Kangxi of the Qing Dynasty. Behind the throne hangs a screen bearing the inscription "Jiaotai Hall Inscription" inscribed by Emperor Qianlong, one of the few authentic Kangxi calligraphy works in the Forbidden City. A copper clepsydra, used for timekeeping, was placed in the east side room but discontinued after the Qianlong reign. A chiming clock, approximately six meters tall and manufactured in the third year of the Jiaqing reign of the Ming Dynasty, is the largest surviving ancient table clock in China. Emperor Shunzhi of the Qing Dynasty also placed an iron plaque here proclaiming, "The inner palace is forbidden to interfere in state affairs."

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 play for about 1 hour

Tickets

Included in the Forbidden City ticket

Attraction opening hours

Peak season: 8:00-17:30 (combination tickets sold at the gate until 16:00)

Off-season 8:00-17:00 (gate closes at 15:30 for combined ticket sales)

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Most Popular FAQs for Jiaotai Hall

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

Jiaotai Hall is part of the ancient architectural heritage of Beijing, often associated with historical religious and cultural events. It has historical significance as a ceremonial site, contributing to the understanding of Beijing’s traditional architecture and its role in social and political rituals.

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

Jiaotai Hall is located in central Beijing, near the city's historical landmarks. It can be easily accessed by taxi or public transport. The nearest metro station is Tiananmen East (Line 1), followed by a short walk.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Jiaotai Hall is open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily. The best times to visit are early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the calm atmosphere.

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

The entrance fee is approximately 20 RMB. Tickets can be purchased on-site, and online tickets may be available through official platforms for easier access.

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

It is not necessary to book tickets in advance, but it is advisable to do so during peak tourist seasons or on weekends to avoid long lines.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

It takes about 1 to 1.5 hours to fully explore Jiaotai Hall, including time for photography, reading informational plaques, and enjoying the surroundings.

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

The must-see highlights include the main hall’s intricate architecture, decorative details, and historical artifacts. The surrounding garden area also offers peaceful walks and scenic views.

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

Guided tours are available in Chinese, and audio guides in English can be rented for a more informative visit.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots are from the main hall's courtyard, where visitors can capture both the architectural beauty of Jiaotai Hall and the tranquil gardens surrounding it.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start with the main hall, where you can appreciate the architecture, then take a walk around the garden to soak in the peaceful atmosphere and finish your visit by relaxing near the main hall’s pond or scenic spots.

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

Night visits and light shows are not available. However, the area is beautifully lit in the evenings, providing a serene atmosphere for a quiet evening stroll.

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

Jiaotai Hall can be crowded during weekends and national holidays. To avoid the crowds, visit early in the morning or on weekdays.

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

The site provides basic amenities, including toilets and rest areas. There are no large food vendors or shops within the attraction, but nearby areas like Wangfujing offer various dining options.

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

Jiaotai Hall is accessible to elderly and children, though there may be stairs leading up to some areas. It's advisable to check with the staff regarding accessibility options for disabled visitors.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are accepted, along with credit cards. It's a good idea to carry cash for smaller purchases.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

While there are no restaurants inside, the Wangfujing area nearby offers a variety of dining options, including local Chinese and international restaurants.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Wangfujing offers a variety of vegetarian, vegan, and halal food options, particularly at food courts and some of the larger restaurants.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are many hotels in the Wangfujing area, such as Beijing Hotel, Grand Hyatt Beijing, and Novotel Beijing Peace, which are within walking distance from Jiaotai Hall.

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

Nearby attractions include the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, and the Temple of Heaven. These can all be easily combined in a day trip.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops are available nearby, offering traditional Chinese crafts, silk products, tea sets, and small replicas of historical landmarks.

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

The best transportation options include taxis, the subway, or buses. The Wangfujing area is a major transport hub, so it’s easy to continue your trip from there.