Travel Through Time and Experience the Charm of the Forbidden City

The Palace Museum, formerly known as the Forbidden City, was the imperial palace of the Ming and Qing dynasties in China. It is the largest and most completely preserved ancient wooden structure complex in the world. It is not only a landmark of Beijing but also a treasure of Chinese civilization. If you plan to visit the Palace Museum, this guide will provide you with comprehensive travel information. I. Best Time to Visit The Palace Museum is open year-round, but the best time to visit is during spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October), when the weather is pleasant and the scenery is beautiful. Although winter (November to March) is cold, you can enjoy the Forbidden City after the snow, which has a unique charm. II. Ticket Information Peak Season (April 1 - October 31): 60 RMB/person Off-Season (November 1 - March 31): 40 RMB/person Treasure Gallery, Clock Gallery: 10 RMB/person each Note: The Palace Museum implements a real-name reservation system for ticket purchases. You need to book tickets in advance on the official website or the official WeChat account. III. Tour Routes The Palace Museum covers a vast area. It is recommended to spend half a day to a full day visiting. Here are two classic tour routes: Central Route: Meridian Gate → Gate of Supreme Harmony → Hall of Supreme Harmony → Hall of Central Harmony → Hall of Preserving Harmony → Palace of Heavenly Purity → Hall of Union → Palace of Earthly Tranquility → Imperial Garden → Gate of Divine Might Western Route: Meridian Gate → Hall of Military Eminence → Palace of Compassion and Tranquility → Palace of Longevity and Health → Hall of Supreme Harmony → Hall of Earthly Tranquility → Palace of Eternal Spring → Imperial Garden → Gate of Divine Might IV. Must-See Attractions Hall of Supreme Harmony: Commonly known as the "Golden Throne Hall," it is the largest hall in the Forbidden City and the place where emperors held grand ceremonies. Palace of Heavenly Purity: Where the emperor lived and handled daily government affairs. Palace of Earthly Tranquility: Where the empress lived. Imperial Garden: The largest garden in the Forbidden City, with beautiful scenery, it was a place for the emperor and his consorts to relax and entertain. Treasure Gallery: Houses a large collection of precious cultural relics from the Palace Museum, including gold and silverware, jade, gems, and porcelain. Clock Gallery: Houses a large collection of exquisite clocks from the Palace Museum, showcasing the superb craftsmanship of ancient clock making. V. Transportation Subway: Take Subway Line 1 to Tiananmen East Station or Tiananmen West Station and walk to the Palace Museum. Bus: Take bus No. 1, 2, 52, 59, 82, 120, etc., to Tiananmen East Station or Tiananmen West Station and walk to the Palace Museum. VI. Important Notes The Palace Museum is closed on Mondays (except for national holidays). The Palace Museum implements a one-way visit system. Visitors must enter through the Meridian Gate and exit through the Gate of Divine Might or Donghua Gate. Smoking, pets, and flammable and explosive materials are prohibited inside the Palace Museum. Protect cultural relics. Do not touch the relics or ancient buildings. There are many tourists in the Palace Museum. Please take care of your personal belongings. VII. Travel Tips It is recommended to book tickets online in advance to avoid queuing. The Palace Museum covers a large area, so comfortable shoes are recommended. You can rent an audio guide to learn more about the history and culture of the Forbidden City. There are many cultural and creative shops in the Palace Museum where you can buy souvenirs. The Palace Museum is a place worth experiencing with your heart. I hope this guide can help you plan an unforgettable trip. Have a pleasant journey!