Forbidden City / 故宫博物院

The Forbidden City served as the imperial palace of 24 Ming and Qing emperors for nearly 500 years. It is the largest and best-preserved wooden imperial palace complex in the world.

Forbidden City /  故宫博物院

Category

Historical, Museum

Why Visit

  • Beijing's most iconic landmark
  • A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987
  • Home to one of the world's richest collections of Chinese imperial treasures
  • Experience traditional Chinese palace architecture and imperial history

Suggested Duration

4–5 Hours

Best Visiting Time

08:30–10:00

Suitable For

  • First-time visitors
  • History lovers
  • Architecture enthusiasts

Tips

  • Avoid weekends, Chinese public holidays, and July–August afternoons
  • Enter through Meridian Gate (午门) and exit via Gate of Divine Might (神武门)
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes
  • Download an audio guide for a richer experience

Admission Type

Paid Ticket

Reservation Required

Yes

Reservation Max.

H-7 (Tickets are released daily at 20:00 Beijing Time via the official Palace Museum booking systems)

Opening Hours

8:30–17:00 (Last entry: 16:00, The last entry to the Treasure Gallery & Clock Gallery ends at 16:10)

Address (English & Chinese)

No. 4 Jingshan Front Street, Dongcheng District, Beijing
北京市东城区景山前街4号(午门)

Note

Ticket price: 60 元 for adults and 30 元 for elderly people over the age of 60. The latest check-in time for the morning session is 12:00 PM; meanwhile, the earliest time for the afternoon session is 11:00 PM.

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