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Summary

The Forbidden City in Beijing is a must-see historical site, offering a glimpse into the grandeur of Chinese imperial architecture and history. This travel guide provides a detailed itinerary for exploring the main attractions within the Forbidden City, including the Meridian Gate, Hall of Supreme Harmony, and the Palace of Heavenly Purity. Visitors will learn about the site's historical significance, architectural marvels, and interesting stories from the Ming and Qing Dynasties.

🏯 Day 1: Exploring the Forbidden City

Discover the grandeur and historical significance of the Forbidden City, a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site and the former imperial palace of the Ming and Qing Dynasties.

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🏯 Meridian Gate (Wumen)

The southern gate of the Forbidden City, used by emperors to review royal troops, announce the new lunar calendar, and mark the entrance to the Outer Court.

Tips

As you enter through the Meridian Gate and cross the Golden Stream Bridge, prepare to be awed by the grandeur and historical significance of the Outer Court.

Travel Information
📞   Phone: +86 10 8500 7427
🌐   Website: https://www.dpm.org.cn/Home.html
🕒   Hours: See hours
📍   Address: 4 Jingshan Front St, Dongcheng, China, 100009

🏯 Hall of Supreme Harmony (Taihedian)

The grandest hall in the Forbidden City, hosting major ceremonies such as the emperor's ascension and the appointment of a new empress, showcasing intricate designs and the highest rooftop in the complex.

Tips

Take a moment to absorb the overwhelming expertise of ancient architects and the symbolic power exuded by this grand hall.

Travel Information
📞   Phone: +86 10 8500 7428
🌐   Website: http://www.dpm.org.cn/
🕒   Hours: See hours
📍   Address: 4 Jingshan Front St, Dongcheng, Beijing, China, 100009

🏯 Hall of Central Harmony (Zhonghedian)

A smaller hall used by the emperor to rest and receive homage from officials before ceremonies, strategically located between the Hall of Supreme Harmony and the Hall of Preserved Harmony.

Tips

Pause to imagine the emperor preparing for the grand ceremonies while receiving homage from royal officials in this serene and historically significant space.

Travel Information
🌐   Website: https://www.dpm.org.cn/
📍   Address: Dongcheng, China, 100006

🏯 Hall of Preserved Harmony (Baohedian)

Used for imperial banquets and celebrations, this hall is similar in style to the Hall of Supreme Harmony but smaller, featuring a stunning marble terrace and intricate carvings.

Tips

Marvel at the exquisite craftsmanship and historical significance of this space, where imperial banquets and celebrations once echoed through the hallowed halls.

Travel Information
🌐   Website: https://www.dpm.org.cn/Home.html
📍   Address: China, Beijing, Dongcheng, 故宫博物院内

🏯 Palace of Heavenly Purity (Qianqinggong)

The largest palace in the Inner Court, serving as the emperor's sleeping quarters and audience hall, offering a glimpse into the emperor's living quarters and the place where he held court.

Tips

Immerse yourself in the opulence and historical significance of this space, where the emperor's private and public lives intertwined in a captivating display of imperial power.

Travel Information
📍   Address: Dongcheng, China, 100006

🏯 Palace of Union and Peace (Jiaotaidian)

Houses the twenty-five Imperial Seals of the Qing Dynasty and other ceremonial items, including the clocks that set the official time in the palace, providing a unique insight into the ceremonial aspects of imperial life.

Tips

Delve into the historical significance of the ceremonial items and the role they played in the daily life of the imperial court, offering a fascinating glimpse into the Qing Dynasty's imperial rituals.

Travel Information
📞   Phone: +86 400 950 1925
🌐   Website: https://www.dpm.org.cn/Home.html
🕒   Hours: See hours
⏳   Typical duration: 2.5 hours
📍   Address: 4 Jingshan Front St, Dongcheng, Beijing, China, 100009
🔗   Profiles:

🏯 Palace of Earthly Tranquility (Kunninggong)

Served as the empress's residence in the Ming Dynasty and the nuptial chamber in the Qing Dynasty, featuring an altar for worshipping the deities of Shamanism, offering a unique perspective on the private lives of the imperial family.

Tips

Reflect on the historical significance of this space, where the personal and spiritual lives of the empress and the imperial family unfolded in a serene and culturally rich environment.

Travel Information
🌐   Website: https://www.dpm.org.cn/
📍   Address: W9CW+7PQ, Dongcheng, Beijing, China, 100006

🏯 Gate of Divine Prowess (Shenwumen)

The northern gate of the Forbidden City, facing Jingshan Park, marking the exit point after visiting the Imperial Garden, offering a picturesque conclusion to your exploration of the Forbidden City.

Tips

As you exit through this gate, take a moment to appreciate the historical significance and architectural beauty of this final gateway, framing your departure from the Forbidden City with a touch of grandeur.

Travel Information
🌐   Website: https://www.dpm.org.cn/Home.html
📍   Address: W9CW+XP2, Dongcheng, China, 100006