Forbidden City (Palace Museum)故宫
The palace of 24 Ming and Qing emperors: how to book, which route to take, and what most visitors miss.
Photo: N509FZ · CC BY-SA 4.0 · via Wikimedia Commons
- Time needed
- 3–4 hours
- Best time
- Opening time on weekdays, outside July–August and public holidays.
- Nearest base
- Beijing
About Forbidden City (Palace Museum)
Completed in 1420, the Forbidden City was the imperial palace for almost 500 years and is now the Palace Museum. It covers around 72 hectares and is the largest collection of preserved ancient wooden structures in the world.
Visitors enter from the south at the Meridian Gate (Wumen) and exit at the north (Shenwumen). The central axis — the three great halls of the outer court — is spectacular but busy; the side courtyards, the Treasure Gallery and the Clock Gallery are quieter and reward the extra time.
Tickets and getting there
- Booking
- Tickets are sold online only, with your passport number, usually up to 7 days in advance. The museum is closed on most Mondays (except some public holidays). Bring the same passport you booked with.
- How to get there
- Metro Line 1 to Tiananmen East, then walk through the Tiananmen area to the Meridian Gate. Allow time for security checks.
Almost every major sight in China books by passport number. See what to set up before you fly.
Highlights
- Hall of Supreme Harmony — The largest hall, used for coronations and major ceremonies.
- Treasure Gallery — Imperial jewellery and ritual objects; separate small fee.
- Clock Gallery — European and Chinese clocks gifted to the Qing court.
- Imperial Garden — Rockeries and ancient cypresses at the northern end.
Field notes
- Climb Jingshan Park, across the road from the north exit, for the classic view over the palace roofs.
- Rent the official audio guide or hire a licensed guide.
Staying in Beijing
You might also like
The Great Wall near Beijing
Which section to choose — Mutianyu, Badaling, Jinshanling, Jiankou or Simatai — and how to get there without a tour bus.
Temple of Heaven
Where Ming and Qing emperors prayed for good harvests — and where Beijingers now come to dance, sing and play cards every morning.
Summer Palace
The Qing imperial garden on Kunming Lake: the Long Corridor, the Marble Boat and Longevity Hill.
FAQ
Is the Forbidden City open every day?
It is closed on most Mondays, except during some national holidays and the summer peak. Always check the official booking calendar.
Can I buy Forbidden City tickets at the gate?
No. All tickets are sold online in advance with passport details.
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