The Forbidden City, said to consist of over 9,000 rooms, is the largest and best-preserved royal palace throughout the world. Serving as the seat of power in the Ming and Qing Dynasties (1368 - 1911), it was dwelled by 24 emperors for over 600 years.

Stepping inside, you'll marvel at the intricate wood structures that create a seemingly endless maze. Walls and doors, painted yellow and red, symbolize imperial power and good fortune. Beyond the historic buildings, you'll find a treasure trove of curios, including porcelain, calligraphy, paintings, and clocks, hinting at the royal family's lavish lifestyle.

Meridian Gate of Forbidden City

Hall of Supreme Harmony of Forbidden City

When visiting, start at the Meridian Gate and follow the central axis to explore the Outer Court's three grand halls and the Inner Court's three majestic palaces – respectively the emperor's core workplace and living quarter. Depending on your pace and energy, plan for about 3 to 4 hours.
 

If time allows, visit the Six Eastern and Six Western Palaces to see restored imperial concubine quarters and traditional culture exhibitions, or marvel at royal treasures at the Treasure Gallery and Clock and Watch Gallery. If you're a first-timer, joining a guided tour is a fun way to dive into the history and culture of this incredible place.

The Exhibition at Hall of Mental Cultivation

Corner Tower of the Forbidden City

Entry to the Forbidden City is only through the Meridian Gate (South Gate). Due to traffic restrictions around the Gate, visitors must first arrive at a nearby stop and then walk to the Meridian Gate for security checks. Here are three transportation options: 

a. Take Subway Line 1 and disembark at Tiananmen East Station (Exit A) or Tian'anmen West Station (Exit B). From there, find the Tian'anmen Tower and proceed north to the Meridian Gate. 

b. Take Bus 1, 2, 52, 82, 120, Night Bus Line 1, Tourist Bus Line 1, or Tourist Bus Line 2 and get off at Tian'anmen East Station; or take Bus 1, 5, 52, Night Bus Line 1, Tourist Bus Line 1, or Tourist Line 2, and get off at Tian'anmen West Station. 

c. For taxi or ride-hailing services, set your destination as "East Prosperity Gate (Donghuamen)" or "West Prosperity Gate (Xihuamen)". From there, walk along the moat to reach the Meridian Gate.

Many visitors to the Forbidden City opt to enter via Tian'anmen Square, which involves passing through security checks twice: once at Tian'anmen Square and again at the Meridian Gate of the Forbidden City. This can result in a total waiting time of over two hours. Here are some tips to expedite your entry:

1. Go Bagless: Keep your belongings in your pockets and use the bagless lane. This can cut down the security check time by half. If you're traveling with friends or families, consider designating one person to carry bags while others use the bagless lane.

2. Avoid Tian'anmen Square for Direct Entry by Taking Alternative Routes Below:

- Cultural Palace Shortcut: Head to the "Beijing Working People's Cultural Palace" (ticket price: CNY 2), and it's just a 5- to 15-minute walk to the security checkpoint at the Meridian Gate.

- East Prosperity Gate  Access: Take a taxi to the East Prosperity Gate, or exit Metro Line 8 at Jinyu Hutong Station, Exit C, and then walk for 15~20 minutes to reach the Meridian Gate directly.

3. Book Afternoon Tickets (checking starts at 11:00) to steer clear of the peak ticket checking period from 8:00 to 10:00.

4. Utilize express lanes tailored to your situation, such as the priority lane for minors and the assistance lane for seniors over 60 and people with disabilities.