What is the Best Visiting Route of Forbidden City?
This guideline gives you the best visiting route of Forbidden City for your Beijing tour. There are 3 visiting routes, including central axis route(the most effective route), comprehensive exploration(beyond the central axis) and family-friendly route. Each route offers a unique perspective on this sprawling complex, allowing you to tailor your exploration from a quick overview to an in-depth dive into imperial life.
Central Axis Route|Efficient yet Comprehensive
The Central Axis Route of Forbidden City costs about 2.5 to 3 hours. It is highly recommended for first-time visitors or those with limited time. It focuses on the core architectural marvels along the palace’s central north-south axis and ensures you see the most iconic structures, providing a comprehensive glimpse into the Forbidden City’s grandeur and historical significance.
What can You See along the Central Axis Route of Forbidden City?
Meridian Gate (Wumen武门 in Chinese): The main entrance, where your journey begins.
Gate of Supreme Harmony (Taihemen太和门 in Chinese): The second gate, leading into the Outer Court.
Hall of Supreme Harmony (Taihedian太和殿 in Chinese): The largest and most important hall, used for grand ceremonies.
Hall of Central Harmony (Zhonghedian中和殿 in Chinese): A smaller hall where the emperor prepared for ceremonies.
Hall of Preserving Harmony (Baohedian保和殿 in Chinese): The final hall of the Outer Court, used for banquets and imperial examinations.
Gate of Heavenly Purity (Qianqingmen乾清门 in Chinese): The entrance to the Inner Court.
Palace of Heavenly Purity (Qianqinggong乾清宫 in Chinese): The emperor’s residence and office.
Hall of Union (Jiaotaidian交泰殿 in Chinese): Symbolizing the union of heaven and earth, located between the emperor’s and empress’s palaces.
Palace of Earthly Tranquility (Kunninggong坤宁宫 in Chinese): The empress’s living quarters.
Imperial Garden (Yuhuayuan御花园 in Chinese): A beautiful imperial garden at the northern end of the Inner Court.
Gate of Divine Prowess (Shenwumen神武门 in Chinese): The northern exit, also leading to Jingshan Park.
How is the Number Nine Applied in the Forbidden City?
The number nine is considered lucky in Chinese culture and it appears everywhere in the Forbidden City. From the roof statues to the steps, all constructions embody number nine, reinforcing the idea of imperial perfection. The Hall of Supreme Harmony (太和殿) is the heart of the Forbidden City and the most important building in imperial China and emperors held coronations and major ceremonies. This grand hall symbolized the supreme power of the throne. Its towering golden roof, marble terraces, and mythical dragon decorations were designed to awe visitors—just as the emperor wanted.
Most Indepth Route to Visit Entire Forbidden City
Comprehensive Exploration Route extends beyond the central axis and usually takes about 6 hours. For those visitors desiring a deeper dive into the Forbidden City’s vast collection and less-explored areas, this route is a better choice. It combines the main highlights with visits to specialized galleries and residential palaces on the complex’s east and west sides.
How Does Itinerary Expand?
This route offers visitor a richer understanding of imperial life, daily routines, and artistic achievements, providing a more immersive cultural experience. It also strategically helps in avoiding the peak crowds that tend to stick strictly to the central axis.
Begin with the Central Axis Route’s core halls (Meridian Gate to Hall of Preserving Harmony). Detour to the Hall of Military Prowess(武英殿 in Chinese) and Hall of Literary Glory(文华殿 in Chinese), and return to the central axis at the Hall of Supreme Harmony, after watching the Inner Court: The Six Western Palaces and The Six Eastern Palaces (东西六宫 in Chinese) where the concubines lived, then branch east to explore the Watches and Clocks Exhibition Hall(钟表馆 in Chinese) and the Gold and Jade Exhibition Hall(珍宝馆 in Chinese and it includes the iconic Nine-Dragon Screen and the Palace of Tranquil Longevity). These galleries typically require separate, small additional tickets. Rejoin the Inner Court and proceed through the Imperial Garden to the northern exit.
Is Forbidden City Suitable for The Elderly and Children to Visit?
Yes. There is a family-friendly route makes exploring this vast palace easy and fun for all ages or someone with limited-time. It costs only about 2 hours. Start at the Meridian Gate, then head straight to the Hall of Supreme Harmony—kids love spotting dragons! Take breaks at shady spots like the Imperial Garden. It’s worth noting that you can see many sparkling jewels at the Treasure Gallery. For seniors, stick to the central axis (flat paths, fewer stairs) and rent wheelchairs at the entrance. You can also find some restaurants such as Ice Cellar Restaurant.
Is There Barrier-free Access in the Forbidden City?
Yes. Forbidden City is friendly with mobility concerns. And Wheelchairs, strollers, and baby carriages are available for free rental. Please request at the rental station located at the west side of the Meridian Gate (South Gate).
Eligible Renters:
- Wheelchairs: Individuals aged 60 and above or those who have mobility difficulties.
- Strollers: Toddlers aged 2 to 3 years old (weight under 15 kg).
- Baby carriages: Infants aged 0 to 2 years old (weight under 15 kg).
Rental Hours:
Rental wheelchairs, strollers, and baby carriages are available during opening hours (Tuesday to Sunday). All rental equipment shall be returned on the same day before leaving the museum.
- Peak Season (April 1 to October 31): 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. ·
- Off Season (November 1 to March 31): 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Forbidden City travel tips
What can I See after Visiting Forbidden City?
Jingshan Park is a scenic spot. It located directly across the street from the northern exit (Gate of Godly Prowess) of the Forbidden City. Climbing to the Wanchun Pavilion in Jingshan Park offers the best panoramic views of the entire Forbidden City complex, making it a highly recommended addition to your itinerary.
Can I Enter or Leave Forbidden City from any Gate?
No. The tour of Forbidden City is an one way tour. The Forbidden City operates on a one-way visitor flow system. All visitors must enter through the Meridian Gate (午门Wumen in Chinese) from the south. Exits are primarily through the Gate of Godly Prowess (神武门Shenwumen in Chinese) to the north or the East Prosperity Gate (东华门Donghuamen in Chinese).
How Long does it Take to Visit Forbidden City?
How long you stay in Forbidden City according to your travel route. A visit along the Central Axis Route typically takes 2.5-3 hours. For a more comprehensive exploration that includes side galleries and palaces, plan for 4-5 hours or even a full day if you wish to delve deeper into every exhibition.