This comprehensive Forbidden City tour plan is designed to improve your Beijing tour and helps your avoid crowds, from optimizing your exploration route to best visiting time.
How to Arrive at Forbidden City?
There are 3 transportation ways to help you reach the Forbidden City. You can choose subway, taxi, or a guided tour by a reliable company according to your demand. Each way has its own advantages.
- Subway | Efficient and Cost-friendly
You can take Line 1 and alight at either Tiananmen West Station (Exit B) or Tiananmen East Station (Exit A/B). If you take Line 2, you can get off at Qianmen Station (Exit A). - Taxi Services | Convenient yet Comfortable
You can arrive at Donghua Gate(东华门 in Chinese) by taxi, and take about a 5-10 minute walk towards the Meridian Gate (午门 in Chinese) of Forbidden City. - Guided Tours by Reliable Company
A reliable company provides expert insights and help plan the best transportation plan to ensure your smooth visit to the Forbidden City.
Best Visiting Route of the Forbidden City
There are 3 visiting routes in Forbidden City: Central axis route, Comprehensive exploration and Family-friendly route. You can walk along with suitable route to enjoy must-see sites. These routes are designed for different interests and timeframes. How long you stay in Forbidden City depends on different routes.
Central Axis Route（2.5-3 hours)
The classic central axis route is a one-way tour from the Meridian Gate(午门Wumen in Chinese) to the Gate of Divine Prowess(神武门Shenwumen inChinese). It is highly recommended for first-time visitors or those with limited time.
Diving Deeper (over 6 hours)
The most indepth route beyond the central axis and explores the eastern and western wings in Forbidden City. These areas offer house specialized galleries and collections, showing past imperial life.
Family-Friendly Route (2 hours)
This route makes exploring this vast palace easy and fun for all ages or someone with limited-time. You can take a rest in the restaurant. Besides wheelchairs are offered at the entrance for free.
The best time to visit Forbidden City in a Day
The best time to visit Forbidden City in a day is in the early morning or in the late afternoon.
Visit Forbidden City In the Early Morning
When you arrive before the Forbidden City open, you will meet fewer crowds, better photo and Peaceful Atmosphere. If you have enough time, you can go straight to Jingshan Park to overlook the entire Forbidden City.
Less Crowds in the Late Afternoon
The late afternoon offers a relaxed pace to visit Forbidden City. You will get golden hour lighting and cooler temperature. However, don’t come here too late and make ensure you have enough time to explore.