Autumn Visit to the Forbidden City

The Palace Museum, located at 4 Jingshan Front Street, Dongcheng District, Beijing, was formerly known as the Forbidden City. It served as the imperial palace during the Ming and Qing dynasties. As the world's largest existing wooden architectural complex, its red walls, yellow tiles, and resplendent grandeur embody over 600 years of history, making it a symbol of Chinese civilization. In autumn, the golden ginkgo leaves and red persimmons complement the ancient architecture, creating a picturesque and poetic scene.

🕘【Opening Hours】:
Peak Season (April 1 - October 31): Open from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM, with last entry at 4:10 PM.
Off-Season (November 1 - March 31): Open from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM, with last entry at 3:40 PM.
Closed Days: Closed on Mondays throughout the year, except during public holidays.
Recommended Visit Duration: For a comprehensive tour, allocate 3-4 hours; for an in-depth exploration, plan for a full day.

💴【Ticket Prices】:
General Admission: Peak Season ¥60/person, Off-Season ¥40/person.
Treasure Gallery: ¥10/person.
Clock and Watch Gallery: ¥10/person.
Discount Policies: Students (excluding adult education and graduate students) with valid student ID or school letter: ¥20/person; minors aged 6 (excluding) to 18 (including) with valid ID: ¥20/person; seniors aged 60 and above with valid ID: half-price tickets; local social security benefit recipients: half-price tickets; retired officials, children aged 6 (including) and below or under 1.2 meters (including) in height, and persons with disabilities with valid documentation: free admission. No recent changes in ticket prices.

⛺【Activities】:
Central Axis Tour: Enter through the Meridian Gate and proceed north along the central axis of the Forbidden City, passing through the Gate of Supreme Harmony, Hall of Supreme Harmony, Hall of Central Harmony, Hall of Preserving Harmony, Gate of Heavenly Purity, Palace of Heavenly Purity, Hall of Union, Palace of Earthly Tranquility, and the Imperial Garden. This route showcases the core architecture and history of the Forbidden City, offering a sense of the majesty and solemnity of the imperial palace.
Exploring the Six Eastern and Western Palaces: The Six Eastern Palaces include Jingren Palace, Chengqian Palace, Zhongcui Palace, Yanxi Palace, etc., while the Six Western Palaces include Yongshou Palace, Yikun Palace, Chuxiu Palace, etc. These were the residences of imperial concubines during the Ming and Qing dynasties, providing insights into their lives and stories.
Visiting the Treasure and Clock Galleries: The Treasure Gallery, located in the Ningshou Palace area, houses a vast collection of exquisite treasures such as gold and silverware, jade, and jewelry, showcasing the luxury and wealth of the royal family. The Clock and Watch Gallery, located in the Hall of Ancestral Worship, displays a variety of ancient clocks and watches with intricate craftsmanship.
Highlight Spots: Such as the Duan Hong Bridge, whose stone lions on the railings are uniquely charming, and the Inner Golden Water Bridge, where the shimmering water under the autumn sun complements the surrounding architecture, making it a perfect photo spot.

🚌【Transportation Guide】:
Subway: Take Line 1 to "Tiananmen East" Station, Exit B, and walk to the Meridian Gate entrance.
Bus: Take routes 10, 103, 109, 124, etc., and get off at the Forbidden City stop.

👉【Itinerary Suggestions】:
Nearby Attractions: Around the Forbidden City, you can visit Jingshan Park, Beihai Park, Tiananmen Square, and the National Museum of China. After touring the Forbidden City, head to Jingshan Park to enjoy a panoramic view of the Forbidden City from Wanchun Pavilion, or visit Tiananmen Square to see the Monument to the People's Heroes and Chairman Mao Memorial Hall.
Accommodation Recommendations: Stay in the Wangfujing or Dongsi areas, which are close to the Forbidden City and within walking distance. These areas also offer convenient transportation, dining, and shopping options.

🧡【Preparation Tips】:
Documents: Bring valid ID for ticket verification.
Clothing: Autumn in Beijing is cool, so bring a jacket for warmth in the mornings and evenings.
Other Essentials: Pack a power bank, water bottle, sunscreen, sun hat, and some snacks to replenish energy during your visit.