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Forbidden city ticket

Hi all,

Does Forbidden city ticket can be sold out at the gate on Saturday or Sunday? I looked into buying but can't buy yet since my arrival date not until April, a month from now. I booked a hotel 15 minutes walk from Forbidden, map said so. I can go with daily tour & found some on klook.

Thanks 😊

The Forbidden City is one of Beijing’s most popular attractions, and weekends—especially Saturdays and Sundays—can get very crowded. Since ticketing is now strictly managed online, it is highly unlikely that you can buy tickets at the gate on busy days.

Here are the key points about ticket availability:

  • Tickets must be purchased online in advance through the official website or authorized platforms. Same-day walk-up tickets are not usually available, especially on weekends or holidays.
  • Ticket quotas are limited daily, and they can sell out quickly, particularly during peak tourist seasons, weekends, and public holidays.
  • Time-slot entry: Tickets are issued for specific time slots, so planning your arrival and securing a slot is essential.

Tips for visiting:

  • Book as soon as your ticket window opens (usually 30 days in advance online) to ensure you get your preferred time.
  • If you are staying only 15 minutes away, you can plan to visit early in the morning when crowds are smaller, but still, pre-booking is essential.
  • Consider guided tours via platforms like Klook or GetYourGuide if tickets are sold out—they often include reserved entry.

In summary, don’t plan to buy tickets at the gate on Saturday or Sunday. Advance online booking is strongly recommended to guarantee entry to the Forbidden City.

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