Forbidden City
Forbidden City things to do, attractions, restaurants, events info and trip planning
Learn more insights from Wanderboat AIDescription
cultural
family friendly
accessibility
The Forbidden City is a palace complex in Dongcheng District, Beijing, China, at the center of the Imperial City of Beijing.
attractions: The Palace Museum, Tiananmen, Jingshan Park, Jingshan Park, Meridian Gate, National Museum of China, Hotel Kapok Beijing, Hall of Supreme Harmony, Jade Garden Hotel Beijing, 北京王府井西华智德饭店, restaurants: Siji Mingfu Roasted Duck Restaurant, Fuhui Ciyuan, Beijing Dawanju Restaurant, Alley Cafe, 狗不理包子, Beijing Fangshan Restaurant, 诗意栖居咖啡馆, Renren Restaurant, Renhe Home Cooking, Xunchang Xiangmo
Ratings
Description
The Forbidden City is a palace complex in Dongcheng District, Beijing, China, at the center of the Imperial City of Beijing.
Plan your stay
&promo_pic=/one-page/coolest.jpg)
Posts
An eye opening imperial palace complex commissioned in the early 1400's by the Ming Dynasty, and was at the centre of Chinese power for 5 centuries. It is called the Forbidden City because ordinary people were not permitted entry here, but this was lifted in 1925 when it was no longer the home of the Emperor. It was granted UNESCO World Heritage status in 1987 and also declared as the world's largest preservation of wooden structures from the ancient world. This is the main attraction to tourists in Beijing, so be prepared for serious crowds. The queues for entry are excruciating and in the height of summer is punishing, as there is not much shelter from the sun here. Entry is around 8USD and you are probably best booking in advance from their official site. You can also buy at the booking office on the day, but you may encounter a language barrier. Don't forget your passport, because your number is basically your ticket in. Also ensure you have an English speaking guide or else rent a personal audio guide. This will really enhance the experience and educate you on this site's extensive history. This place is enormous (178 acres) and will take you 3-4 hours to get around and appreciate everything properly. There is a total of 9,999 rooms and each room is decorated with statues. This number is deeply symbolic in ancient Chinese culture as the number 9 is considered lucky and signifies eternity, so it is very deliberate. As you go through the complex, as the importance of each building grows, the number of statues increases. The palace museum boasts around a million artifacts, including porcelain and jade, and is under strict protection by the Chinese government. The unparalleled architecture of this walled complex strictly adheres to Feng Shui. The materials used to construct the palace include; marbles from the surrounding quarries, logs of precious Phoebe zhennan wood and golden bricks. Most of the roofs are finished with glazed yellow tiles, as yellow was the official colour of Chinese Emperors. I strongly recommend to go to Jingshan Park to the north of here, and climb the hill. This will give you an opportunity to marvel at an elevated view of this majestic complex.
Alan EganAlan Egan
00
Wandering through the narrow streets of the emblematic Forbidden City, I immerse myself in the mysterious history of this place. The expansive walls of the city separate it from the outside world, creating an atmosphere of isolation and secrecy that captivates all visitors. Every corner of this ancient complex exudes the spirit of bygone eras and the rich Chinese culture. Passing under the majestic Gates of Divine Might, I discover monumental buildings, temples, and palaces that once served as the residence of emperors and their courts. Every architectural detail and decoration reflects the opulence and majesty of dynastic China, leaving an indelible impression on visitors. Entering the Hall of Supreme Harmony, I am struck by a sense of humility in the face of the grandeur and power of the Chinese empire. The gilded columns, intricately decorated ceilings, and sumptuous interiors bring to mind the heyday of the Ming and Qing dynasties. I then make my way to the Imperial Garden, where amidst carefully designed pagodas, bridges, and ponds, I can relax and revel in the harmony of nature surrounded by temples and pavilions. In this idyllic oasis, enveloped by the chirping of birds and the rustling of water, one can breathe and immerse oneself in a peaceful atmosphere. Strolling through the historic alleyways of the Forbidden City, I feel the vibrant energy of the past, whose traces are in every stone, every sculpture, every nook and cranny of this place. It is a journey through time that allows me to delve into the culture, art, and traditions of ancient Chinese people, leaving indelible memories for years to come. The Forbidden City not only captivates with its architecture and history, but also evokes the spirit of bygone times, revealing the profound significance of Chinese culture and heritage. It is a place full of mysteries, harmony, and majesty, leaving unforgettable impressions and continuously enchanting with its beautiful monuments.
Kamil ObolewiczKamil Obolewicz
00
The Forbidden City, located in the heart of Beijing, is a mesmerizing testament to China's imperial history. Stepping through the imposing vermilion walls, you're transported into a bygone era of opulence and grandeur. The sheer scale of the complex is awe-inspiring, with its 980 surviving buildings meticulously arranged in traditional Chinese architectural style. As you traverse the courtyards and halls, each exquisitely adorned with intricate carvings, golden roofs, and vibrant tiles, you gain a profound sense of the imperial majesty that once thrived within these walls. The Hall of Supreme Harmony, the Forbidden City's centerpiece, is a stunning manifestation of imperial power and ceremonial significance. The museum housed within the Forbidden City showcases an extensive collection of artifacts, offering a comprehensive glimpse into China's dynastic past. From ancient scrolls to imperial robes, the exhibits provide a rich tapestry of the nation's cultural heritage. Despite its historical weight, the Forbidden City is remarkably accessible, thanks to informative signage and well-maintained pathways. The sprawling palace grounds also offer serene gardens, allowing visitors to appreciate not only the grand architecture but also the tranquility that coexists within this monumental space. In essence, the Forbidden City is not merely a tourist attraction; it's a living testament to China's imperial legacy, offering a captivating journey through centuries of history and culture.
ajleeblogajleeblog
30
Our family recently explored the Forbidden City in Beijing, and it was an experience we'll always treasure. The Forbidden City's historical significance and grandeur surpassed our expectations. One of the highlights of our visit was the stunning architecture and intricate details found throughout the Forbidden City. From the majestic gates to the ornate halls and courtyards, every corner was a testament to China's rich cultural heritage and imperial history. Despite being a popular tourist destination, we were pleasantly surprised by how well-preserved and spacious the Forbidden City felt. Despite the crowds, we were able to navigate through the vast complex at our own pace, taking in the grandeur and imagining the lives of emperors and empresses who once walked these hallowed grounds. The accessibility of the Forbidden City was another positive aspect of our visit. The well-organized entrances and signage made it easy for us to explore the various sections and learn about China's imperial past. Overall, our visit to the Forbidden City was nothing short of mesmerizing. It provided us with a glimpse into China's rich history and cultural heritage, leaving us with memories that will last a lifetime. It's a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Beijing and seeking to delve into the heart of China's imperial legacy.
WanderLensBiker “WanderLensBiker”WanderLensBiker “WanderLensBiker”
90
One of the most impressive places where I have been. The Forbidden City is the most important and visited place in Beijing, especially for Chinese citizens, who can now stroll through this once impenetrable place. Despite being an essential visit, there are places like the Summer Palace where the buildings are more varied and you can see beautiful gardens.The palace and its dependencies were reserved for the court and subjects from its construction in 1420 until 1949, which is why it is known as The Forbidden City.Interesting details of the Forbidden City: Roof Guardians: The figures that are located in the corners of the roofs are the guardians who must be in charge of protecting the building in case there is a fire. Chinese Lions: As with most traditional Chinese buildings, two lions guard the entrance to each of the pavilions. They look the same, but under one of its paws, the lion has a ball and the lioness has a cub. Imperial Causeway: In the center of the stairs that lead to each of the main buildings of the Forbidden City, you can see a small marble ramp with carved dragons that was reserved for the emperor's carriage. Numerical Harmony: The Forbidden City has great numerical harmony based on odd numbers, especially nine. The city has 9,999 rooms and the doors for imperial use are decorated with 81 rivets (9x9).
Artur VictoriaArtur Victoria
120
The Forbidden City was declared by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site in 1987 and also declared as the world's largest preservation of wooden structures from ancient world. The Forbidden City is home to one of the biggest museums in the world - the Palace Museum - that boasts imperial collection spanning the Ming and Qing Dynasties. The Forbidden City is actually not forbidden now. During the Ming and Qing dynasties, the Forbidden City was forbidden for commoners and only opened for imperial families and government officials who were invited. Now, it’s open for all as a tourist attraction. Beijing city is not the Forbidden city. Forbidden city is the emperor’s palace located in the center of Beijing. The emperor and his direct family lives in side, along with his servants. He also worked there, where his administers went inside everyday to work. The main gate is located at the Tiananmen Square. Because it was the emperor’s palace, it was heavily guarded. Nobody could get in unless you worked there or was invited. That’s why it is called forbidden city. Beijing city is very much larger than the Forbidden city. All previous dynasties rulers of feudal dynasty think themselves as "son of heaven", namely "天子", is the son of the Jade Emperor. So the place they live can also be called '紫宫' . Will turn back some days!
reee dfdsreee dfds
50
Nearby Attractions Of Forbidden City
The Palace Museum
Tiananmen
Jingshan Park
Jingshan Park
Meridian Gate
National Museum of China
Hotel Kapok Beijing
Hall of Supreme Harmony
Jade Garden Hotel Beijing
北京王府井西华智德饭店
The Palace Museum
4.6
(6.4K)Click for details
Tiananmen
4.2
(827)Click for details
Jingshan Park
4.6
(600)Click for details
Jingshan Park
4.6
(489)Click for details
Nearby Restaurants Of Forbidden City
Siji Mingfu Roasted Duck Restaurant
Fuhui Ciyuan
Beijing Dawanju Restaurant
Alley Cafe
狗不理包子
Beijing Fangshan Restaurant
诗意栖居咖啡馆
Renren Restaurant
Renhe Home Cooking
Xunchang Xiangmo
Siji Mingfu Roasted Duck Restaurant
4.5
(57)Click for details
Fuhui Ciyuan
4.7
(36)Click for details
Beijing Dawanju Restaurant
4.6
(27)Click for details
Alley Cafe
4.9
(17)Click for details
Reviews
Overview
4.6
(976 reviews)
Phone
+86 400 950 1925
Call
Website
dpm.org.cn
Visit
Deep Dive
A deep dive into Forbidden City
