Inside Beijing’s Palace Museum, the Hall of Preserving Harmony is a richly decorated imperial hall and a quieter-scale stop than the Hall of Supreme Harmony. Its throne and carefully made interior give you a closer look at traditional Chinese palace design and the ceremonies held here. The building’s aged finish remains visible, adding a sense of its history. Look for the side passages at either end of the hall, which connect to the courtyard behind it.
The hall and its throne
The Hall of Preserving Harmony is one of the imperial halls within Beijing’s Palace Museum. It is smaller and less imposing than the Hall of Supreme Harmony, so it can be easier to take in its details. Inside, an imperial throne recalls the hall’s connection with official ceremonies.
Look closely at the decoration and construction. The building retains an aged finish that gives its interior a sense of time and use.
The side gates
Two auxiliary passages flank the hall. On the east side, Liǎorén Mén, or the Gate of Fostering Benevolence, leads toward the courtyard between the Hall of Preserving Harmony and the Gate of Heavenly Purity. On the west, Tóngdé Mén, or the Gate of Manifesting Virtue, provides another route to the same courtyard.
These gates connected the rear courtyards with the areas in front of the Gate of Heavenly Purity. Their position helps explain how movement through this part of the palace was arranged.
Perguntas frequentes
Where is the Hall of Preserving Harmony?
It is inside the Palace Museum in Beijing.
What can you see inside the hall?
The hall has an imperial throne and detailed traditional decoration.
What are the two gates beside the hall?
Liǎorén Mén is on the east side and Tóngdé Mén is on the west. Both lead toward the courtyard behind the hall.
When is a good time to visit?
Go early in the day for a more peaceful visit.
