The Forbidden City, officially the Palace Museum, is a vast imperial palace complex in central Beijing, at 4 Jingshan Front St. It served as the home and court of 24 emperors during the Ming and Qing dynasties. Follow the central axis through ceremonial gates and courtyards to the Hall of Supreme Harmony, then look for galleries, gardens and details such as ornate roof decorations. The grounds cover a long walking route, so comfortable shoes and a focused plan help you make the most of the visit.
The imperial palace in central Beijing
The Forbidden City, now officially known as the Palace Museum, occupies the centre of Beijing’s historic north-south axis. It was the imperial residence and court for the Ming and Qing dynasties, and 24 emperors lived here. Construction began in 1406 and was completed in 1420. For nearly five centuries, the complex was also a ceremonial and political centre of government.
The palace grounds cover about 720,000 square metres and contain more than 70 palaces. The central axis and symmetrical plan guide visitors through a sequence of gates, halls and courtyards. Red walls and yellow glazed roof tiles set the main architectural palette; look closely at the carvings and roof decorations as you walk.
Following the central axis
The central route leads through the main ceremonial areas, including the Hall of Supreme Harmony. Its imperial throne, decorated with dragons, is among the details to look for. The scale of the open courtyards and the placement of the halls give the route a strong sense of order. The Gate of Heavenly Purity marks the division between the outer court to the south and the inner court to the north, where the imperial family lived.
If you have limited time, concentrate on the central axis between Meridian Gate and the Gate of Divine Prowess. Visitors with more time can explore the surrounding galleries and gardens. Some areas are not open to the public, so a visit does not cover every building in the complex.
Collections and planning your visit
The Palace Museum preserves art and objects connected with the imperial collections of the Ming and Qing dynasties. Exhibition spaces include displays of historical artefacts, and the complex has a permanent Treasure Gallery. The museum also holds changing exhibitions, so the displays can differ from one visit to another.
Plan for a substantial amount of walking: the complex is large, and a route of about 2 km is noted for the visit. Comfortable shoes are useful. A guided tour can add context to the buildings and their history; one guided visit described in the material lasted three hours. If you prefer to explore independently, decide in advance whether to focus on the central axis or include galleries and gardens.
Tickets are recommended in advance through the official website. Arriving early can help you use your time well, though the entrance and popular halls can still be busy. Security checks are part of the entry process. The Palace Museum is closed on Mondays and its listed visiting hours are shown on the page, so check those details as you plan.
Preguntas frecuentes
What is the Forbidden City called officially?
Its official name is the Palace Museum. It was the imperial palace of the Ming and Qing dynasties.
How long should I plan for a visit?
Allow several hours for the grounds and main sights. A guided visit described in the available information lasted three hours; seeing more galleries and gardens takes longer.
Should I book tickets in advance?
Yes. Advance booking through the official website is recommended.
What should I see if I have limited time?
Focus on the central axis, including the Hall of Supreme Harmony and the route from Meridian Gate to the Gate of Divine Prowess.
Is the Forbidden City open on Mondays?
No. It is listed as closed on Mondays.
