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The Forbidden City, formerly known as the Purple Forbidden City, was the imperial palace of China during the Ming and Qing dynasties. It is also one of the largest and best-preserved ancient wooden structure complexes in the world.
It is not only the pinnacle of ancient Chinese palace architecture but also a symbol of Chinese civilization, carrying over 600 years of history and culture. In 1987, it was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, which described it as "a model of ancient Chinese palace architecture, showcasing the unique charm of Eastern civilization." The Palace Museum currently houses over 1.86 million cultural relics in 25 categories, including calligraphy and painting, ceramics, bronzes, gold and silver wares, jades, furniture, and clocks and watches.
Best season to visit:
The beauty of the Forbidden City varies in different seasons. The city is magnificent and has different scenery in all four seasons.
The Forbidden City in Spring: Blooming Flowers and Blending with Nature
Summer at the Forbidden City: Cool off with greenery and enjoy the coolness of culture
The Forbidden City in Autumn: Colorful Fall Colors and Red Palace Walls
Winter at the Forbidden City: Snow-covered Palaces, a Quiet Moment to Enjoy
You must come to the Forbidden City in Beijing in this lifetime to experience the royal life throughout the four seasons.
Different seasons have different feelings. In spring, you can see the sunshine in the Forbidden City; in summer, you can see the rain in the Forbidden City; in autumn, you can see the sky in the Forbidden City; in winter, you can see the snow scene in the Forbidden City.
However, the Forbidden City's majesty and sacredness can only be experienced when it's less crowded. Therefore, avoid visiting the Forbidden City during holidays, weekends, and winter and summer vacations. Visiting around the Spring Festival will be much less crowded, and if you're lucky, you might even catch some snow.
Recommended tours:
There are three main tour routes for the Forbidden City:
Middle Route: Meridian Gate → Taihemen (Taihemen) → Qianqing Gate → Qianqing Palace → Jiaotai Hall → Kunning Palace → Imperial Garden → Shenwu Gate
East Route: Meridian Gate → Taihemen (Taihemen) → Qianqingmen (Qianqingmen) → East Six Palaces → Ningshou Palace (Tranquil Longevity Palace) → Zhenfei Well
West Route: Meridian Gate → Taihemen (Taihemen) → Qianqing Gate → West Six Palaces → Cining Palace → Yangxin Palace → Shufangzhai
Recommended play time: one day
(1) The peak season is from April 1st to October 31st each year, and the entrance fee is RMB 60 per person;
(2) The off-season is from November 1st to March 31st of the following year. The entrance fee is RMB 40 per person.
(3) Ticket price for visiting the Treasure House: RMB 10 per person.
(4) Ticket price for visiting the Clock and Watch Museum: RMB 10 per person.
Opening Hours:
Peak season (April 1st - October 31st)
Opening time: 8:30
Last admission: 16:10
Closing time: 5:00 PM
Off-season (November 1st - March 31st of the following year)
Opening time: 8:30
Last admission: 15:40
Closing time: 16:30
The Palace Museum is closed every Monday (except statutory holidays) and does not accept visitors during the closure period.
The Forbidden City served as the Chinese imperial palace from the Ming to Qing dynasties (1420–1912) and is a UNESCO World Heritage site representing Chinese architecture, culture, and history.
Located in central Beijing, near Tiananmen Square. Accessible by Metro Line 1 (Tiananmen East/West stations), bus, taxi, or walking from nearby landmarks.
Typically open 8:30–17:00 (April–October) and 8:30–16:30 (November–March). Mornings are best to avoid crowds.
Standard tickets range 60–100 CNY depending on season. Tickets can be purchased online or at the entrance.
Booking online in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons.
3–5 hours to see the main halls and gardens; full exploration may take 6+ hours.
Yes, guided tours and audio guides are available in multiple languages, including English, Chinese, and others.
Enter via Meridian Gate, follow the central axis through major halls to the Imperial Garden, exiting from the north gate.
No regular night visits; occasional special exhibitions may be offered.
Very popular; weekdays and early mornings are less crowded.
Restrooms, water fountains, cafes, and souvenir shops are available within and near the complex.
Some areas are wheelchair accessible, though stairs are common; suitable for all ages with some limitations.
Cards and mobile payments accepted at ticket counters, cafes, and shops; cash is optional.
Cafes and restaurants are available near the entrance and around Tiananmen Square.
Yes, vegetarian, vegan, and halal options are available in nearby eateries.
Several hotels ranging from budget to luxury are nearby, especially around Wangfujing and Qianmen areas.
Yes; traditional Chinese crafts, postcards, and replica artifacts.
Metro, taxi, or walking to nearby attractions like Wangfujing, Jingshan Park, and Beihai Park.
