Forbidden City
Beijing Shi
The Forbidden City, located in the heart of Beijing, China, is an immense imperial palace complex that served as the residence and political center for 24 emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties from 1420 to 1924. Constructed between 1406 and 1420 under the Yongle Emperor, it exemplifies traditional Chinese palatial architecture with its vast scale, symmetry, and opulent design. Covering 72 hectares and comprising approximately 8,886 rooms, it remains the largest and most complete ancient wooden structure collection in the world. The palace complex is divided into the Outer Court, where state affairs and ceremonies were conducted, and the Inner Court, the living quarters of the emperor and his family. Its architecture influenced East Asian cultural and architectural developments and continues to be a profound symbol of Chinese cultural heritage. Since 1925, the site has been managed by the Palace Museum, housing extensive imperial art collections. The Forbidden City is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and attracts millions of visitors annually, reflecting its enduring historical and cultural significance.
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Tip: Visitors should book tickets online at least seven days in advance, as daily visitor numbers are strictly controlled to preserve the site. The Forbidden City is closed on Mondays except for public holidays. The best time to visit is during spring and autumn when the weather is mild and crowds are relatively smaller. Discounts are available for students, seniors, and certain public holidays. Arrive early to avoid peak crowds and consider using the official mobile guide app for an enhanced experience.
Interesting facts
- •The Forbidden City contains nearly 9,000 rooms, though the traditional number is said to be 9,999, symbolizing imperial supremacy.
- •It is the largest collection of preserved ancient wooden structures in the world.
- •The name 'Forbidden City' comes from its restricted access, where unauthorized entry was punishable by death during imperial times.
- •The palace is aligned with the North Star, considered the celestial home of the Jade Emperor in Chinese astrology, reflecting its symbolic role as the earthly counterpart.
- •The complex is surrounded by a 10-meter-high wall and a 52-meter-wide moat.
- •It has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987 and was recently included in the World Heritage listing for Beijing's Central Axis in 2024.
History
Construction of the Forbidden City began in 1406 under the Yongle Emperor, who moved the capital from Nanjing to Beijing.
The palace was completed in 1420 after 14 years of labor by over a million workers.
It served as the imperial residence for Ming emperors until 1644 when rebel forces captured it, followed by the Qing dynasty's takeover.
The Qing rulers made several modifications including bilingual signage and architectural additions.
The palace sustained damage from fires and conflicts but underwent restorations over the centuries.
After the last emperor abdicated in 1912 and left in 1924, the Forbidden City was transformed into the Palace Museum in 1925, opening its treasures to the public.
It was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987 and remains a protected cultural landmark.
Place Guide
Outer Court (Waichao)15th century
The Outer Court houses the main ceremonial halls including the Hall of Supreme Harmony, Hall of Central Harmony, and Hall of Preserving Harmony, where state affairs and grand ceremonies were held.
Inner Court (Neichao)15th century
The Inner Court consists of the living quarters of the emperor and his family, including the Palace of Heavenly Purity, Hall of Union, and Palace of Earthly Tranquility, along with the surrounding residential palaces for consorts and princes.
Gate of Supreme Harmony (Taihemen)15th century
The main gate leading to the Outer Court, symbolizing imperial authority and grandeur.
Imperial Garden15th century
Located at the northern end of the Inner Court, the garden features traditional Chinese landscaping with rockeries, ancient trees, and pavilions used for imperial leisure.
Contact
Phone: 400 950 1925