The Ultimate Guide to Visiting the Palace Museum: A Worry-Free Experience

The Palace Museum, a magnificent imperial palace steeped in centuries of history, is a must-visit destination in Beijing. For first-time visitors, how can you avoid common pitfalls, ensure you don't miss anything, and truly immerse yourself in the Palace Museum's charm? This guide has you covered! 📍Address: 4 Jingshanqian Street, Dongcheng District, Beijing 🕙Opening Hours: April 1 - October 31, 8:30 - 17:00 (last entry 16:00); November 1 - March 31, 8:30 - 16:30 (last entry 15:30). Closed on Mondays (except public holidays). 🎫Tickets: Reservations are required 7 days in advance via the "Palace Museum" mini-program. Peak season: 60 yuan, off-season: 40 yuan. Separate tickets (10 yuan) are required for the Treasure Gallery and the Clock Gallery. 🚗Transportation: Driving is not recommended due to limited parking. Take Subway Line 1 to Tiananmen East Station and walk 900 meters to the Meridian Gate entrance. Alternatively, take bus routes 1, 2, 52, etc., to Tiananmen East Station. 📸Photo Spots: 1. Meridian Gate: The main entrance of the Palace Museum, its towering red walls make for stunning panoramic shots. The best lighting is in the morning. 2. Taihedian Square: Stand on the platforms of Hongyige or Tiren'ge on either side of the square to capture both Taihedian (Hall of Supreme Harmony) and the square, highlighting the imperial majesty. 3. Nine Dragon Screen at the Treasure Gallery: With its vibrant colors, the Nine Dragon Screen serves as a perfect backdrop, creating a harmonious blend of people and architecture. 4. Imperial Garden: Amidst ancient trees and pavilions, donning a Hanfu (traditional Chinese clothing) will transport you back in time. 🍔Dining: There are restaurants inside the Palace Museum, but options are limited. Bring your own snacks and water to stay energized. Enjoy a proper meal at nearby restaurants after your visit. The surrounding area offers numerous traditional Beijing eateries serving delicious Zha Jiang Mian (fried sauce noodles) and Peking duck. 🗺️Suggested Routes: - 2-Hour Central Axis Tour: Meridian Gate - Gate of Supreme Harmony - Hall of Supreme Harmony - Hall of Central Harmony - Hall of Preserving Harmony - Gate of Heavenly Purity - Palace of Heavenly Purity - Hall of Union - Palace of Earthly Tranquility - Imperial Garden - Gate of Divine Might. Ideal for visitors with limited time. - Half-Day In-Depth Tour: Follow the central axis route, adding the Hall of Literary Glory (Painting and Calligraphy Gallery) - Hall of Ancestral Worship (Clock Gallery) - Hall of Mental Cultivation - Western Six Palaces. Perfect for history and culture enthusiasts. - Full-Day Comprehensive Tour: Military Prowess Hall - Hall of Literary Glory - Central Axis - Western Six Palaces - Imperial Garden - Eastern Six Palaces - Hall of Ancestral Worship (Clock Gallery) - Palace of Tranquil Longevity (Treasure Gallery, Opera Gallery). Experience the Palace Museum in its entirety. ❗Important Notes: 1. Plan your itinerary and book your tickets in advance. Late arrivals will not be admitted. 2. Wear comfortable shoes, as the Palace Museum is vast and requires a lot of walking. 3. Do not bring prohibited items and cooperate with security checks. 4. Respect the cultural relics and environment. Do not touch or damage any artifacts.