Forbidden City Ticket Price Guide for All Visitor Types
Planning a visit to the Forbidden City? Many travelers ask about ticket prices. The standard ticket is 60 yuan per person. This guide explains what affects the cost and how to choose the right ticket: standard, senior, minor, or student-for All Visitor Types.
Standard Admission
Season | Standard | Student | Senior (60+) |
Peak | ¥60 | ¥20 | ¥30 |
Off-Peak | ¥40 | ¥20 | ¥20 |
Exhibition Gallery Tickets (Optional)
Each gallery ticket costs ¥10 and grants access to special collections:
Treasure Gallery: Imperial jewelry, jade, and ceramics
Clock & Watch Gallery: Antique timepieces once used within the palace
Combo Package
Main ticket + both gallery exhibitions (peak season): ¥80
This is best if you want a more complete royal experience in one visit instead of buying individually.
Discounted Tickets for the Forbidden City
Full-time Students (domestic & international): ¥20 year-round
Seniors (aged 60+): ¥30 in peak, ¥20 off-peak
Discounts are available with valid ID or student card. Children and teens may need to show proof of age or student status at the entrance.
Free Entry For:
Minors (≤18)
Children (≤6 yrs or ≤1.2m height)
Disabled visitors
Retired cadres
What to Expect from the Forbidden City Access Areas with a Standard Ticket
Section | Main Spots You Can Enter |
Meridian Gate (Wu Men) | Main entrance to the Forbidden City. Features exhibitions on either side of the gate’s wings. |
Outer Court | Hall of Supreme Harmony (Taihe Dian) |
Inner Court | Palace of Heavenly Purity (Qianqing Gong) |
Select halls open as Exhibition Areas, such as: | |
Often open for themed exhibits on empress life, court treasures, etc. | |
Final section of the visit; features traditional landscaping, pavilions, rockeries, and the Hall of Imperial Peace (Qin’an Dian). | |
Exhibition Areas | Vary by season. Typical exhibits include: |
Picking the Right Ticket
Standard ticket: Great for first-time visitors
Student/senior/minor tickets: Best if eligible, to save
Gallery tickets: Good for art lovers and history fans
Combo ticket: Ideal if you want full palace access
Guided tour package: Perfect for time-saving, stories, and richer insights
Forbidden City Ticket Collection & Booking Methods
Where can I buy the Forbidden city tickets? choosing the right booking method can make your experience smoother and more enjoyable. Here are four common ways to book your tickets:
Booking Method | Advantages |
Secure and direct access to tickets. Booking is confirmed in real time. | |
Easy to use for domestic users. Offers flexible time slot selection. | |
Suitable for spontaneous visits. You can purchase tickets at the entrance. | |
Often includes guides, skip-the-line access, and complete travel services. |
Tip: The official online booking system opens 7 days in advance at 20:00 (Beijing time). Tickets can sell out quickly—especially during weekends and holidays—so booking early is recommended.
Final Tips For Visiting Forbidden City
Always bring your passport or valid ID
Keep your ticket time slot in mind and arrive on time
Standard tickets allow about 3–4 hours to explore
Plan for optional galleries if you want a deeper dive
Consider a trusted Travel Company if you value insight and ease
Forbidden City Ticket Summary
Standard ticket: ¥40–¥60
Discount tickets: ¥20–¥30 or free
Gallery: ¥10 each
Combo: ¥80 during peak season
With this guide, you now know exactly what ticket options exist for the Forbidden City and how to choose wisely. Whether you go solo or with a Travel Company, having the right ticket ensures you enjoy every majestic step through the Forbidden City’s rich history.
Is There Any Audio Guide in Forbidden City?
Yes. The audio guide offers 35 international languages, including English, French, German. These devices can be rented just inside the Meridian Gate (Wumen in Chinese), the south entrance, and are typically returned at the Gate of Divine Prowess (Shenwumenin Chinese), the north exit.
Automatic Guide Charge: 40RMB for one person(No Deposit)
Frequently Asked Questions
What are prohibited in the Forbidden City？
The Forbidden City prohibits smoking, eating, loud noises, flash photography, and touching artifacts to protect its historic treasures and ensure a peaceful visit—learn more in our related guides.
Where is the Forbidden City located?
It is located in the heart of Beijing, just north of Tian’anmen Square.
What are the opening hours of the Forbidden City?
The Forbidden City is generally open from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM in peak season and closes earlier in the off-season. Learn more in our related guides:
How much time should I allocate for visiting the Forbidden City?
Most visitors spend between 4 to 6 hours exploring the main halls and gardens.
Can I take guided tours inside the Forbidden City?
Yes, audio guides and licensed tour guides are available to enrich your visit.