The Forbidden City, also known as the Imperial Palace, served as the royal residence during the Ming and Qing dynasties. It stands as a symbol of China’s imperial history. Walking through its grand halls and towering walls, visitors can truly sense its former glory.

Highlights of the Forbidden City

1. Rich Historical and Cultural Heritage

With its vast collection of ancient architecture and countless cultural relics, the Forbidden City offers an immersive journey into China’s past. These historical treasures are among the main attractions for visitors.

2. Must-See Landmarks

• Corner Towers: The Forbidden City’s corner towers are multi-angled structures located at the four corners of the complex. Each tower has a three-tiered roof with an intricate combination of gabled and hip-and-gable designs, featuring nine main ridges, giving rise to the name “Nine-Ridge Hall.”
• Sundial: The Forbidden City houses an equatorial sundial, a device used in ancient times to measure time. This type of sundial consists of a time scale plate, latitude arc, and gnomon. To function accurately, the time scale plate must be parallel to the Earth’s equatorial plane, while the gnomon aligns with the Earth’s axis.
• Treasure Gallery: Located in the Ningshou Palace area, the Treasure Gallery showcases an extensive collection of rare artifacts, including Buddhist relics, jewelry, and imperial household items. Highlights include a 14 cm red coral lion sculpture, a 130 cm-long pearl court necklace, and the gold “Treasure of the Throne” seal.
• Clock Gallery: Situated in the Hall of Ancestral Worship, the Clock Gallery displays a variety of timepieces, primarily from Britain, as well as from France and Switzerland. Many of these clocks feature exquisite decorations, with mechanical figures, animals, and floral designs that perform intricate movements. Notable pieces include the gilded “Writing Automaton Clock,” the “Gilded Enamel Gourd Clock,” and the “Running Rhinoceros Clock.”

Opening Hours

• April 1 – October 31: Tuesday – Sunday, 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
• November 1 – March 31: Tuesday – Sunday, 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
• Closed on Mondays (except for designated holidays)

Last admission includes the Treasure Gallery and Clock Gallery.

Ticket Discounts & Special Policies

• Minors (under 18 years old): Free entry for Chinese citizens (including Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan residents) and foreign permanent residents, with online reservation required.
• Seniors (60 years and above): Discounted tickets available.
• Students (18 years and above, undergraduate level or below): Discounts available with a valid student ID (not applicable to adult education or postgraduate students).
• Disabled Visitors: Free entry with valid disability certification.
• Military Personnel & Families: Free entry on August 1 (Army Day) for retired and active military personnel, martyrs’ families, and families of deceased servicemen. Valid identification required.
• Retired Cadres: Free entry with a valid retirement certificate.
• Low-Income Visitors: 50% discount for those with local social security benefits.
• Women on International Women’s Day (March 8): Half-price entry.
• Parents of Children Under 14 on Children’s Day (June 1): One accompanying parent can enjoy a half-price ticket.
• Active Duty Soldiers & Firefighters: Free entry with valid military or work ID.

Note: Free tickets for minors (including access to the Treasure Gallery and Clock Gallery) require advance reservation.

Visitor Services

• Luggage Storage: Available at the entrances of the Meridian Gate (South Gate) and the Gate of Divine Prowess (North Gate). Free luggage transport service between these two gates.
• Audio Guide Rental: Available at the Hall of Supreme Harmony entrance.
  
  • Mandarin & Cantonese: ¥20 per device
  • Other languages: ¥40 per device
  • Deposit: ¥100 per device
• Baby Stroller Rental: Free service available at the Visitor Service Center.
• Restrooms: Located throughout the Forbidden City, with clear signage at key spots such as ticket offices, visitor centers, and exhibition halls.
• Nursing Rooms: Located near the Longzong Gate.
• Accessibility Services: Wheelchair-accessible pathways are available, with assistance from staff if needed.
• ATMs: Two ATMs are available within the Forbidden City. Exact locations can be found on the official website.
• Dining: Restaurants are located near Longzong Gate, Jingyun Gate, Arrow Pavilion, Yangxin Hall, and Shenning Palace.
• Gift Shops: 20 souvenir shops are distributed across various locations, including Wuying Hall, Wenhua Hall, Jingyun Gate, Yangxin Hall, and Qianqing Palace.
• Convenience Stores: Located at entrances, exits, and along main visitor pathways. Mobile payments (Alipay/WeChat Pay) are accepted.

For more information and reservations, visit the official Forbidden City website.