A Comprehensive Guide to Exploring the Forbidden City: Unlocking 600 Years of History

The Palace Museum (Forbidden City) in Beijing served as the imperial palace for the Ming and Qing dynasties. With over 600 years of history, it is a world cultural heritage site and a must-see attraction in Beijing. Opening Hours: Peak Season (Apr 1–Oct 31): 8:30–17:00 (last entry at 16:10) Off-Season (Nov 1–Mar 31): 8:30–16:30 (last entry at 15:40) Closed on Mondays (except for public holidays). Ticket Prices: CNY 60 during peak season, CNY 40 during off-season; Treasure Gallery and Clock and Watch Gallery: CNY 10 each (separate tickets required). How to Book: Official channels: Make a reservation 1–7 days in advance with your real name through the "Palace Museum" official website or WeChat account (no tickets sold on-site). Timed entry: Enter according to your reservation time slot (it is recommended to choose the morning session for a more relaxed visit). II. Getting There Subway: Take Subway Line 1 to Tiananmen East Station, Exit B, and walk to the Meridian Gate (you will need to pass through Tiananmen security check first). Bus: Take bus routes 2, 120, etc., to Tiananmen East Station. Taxi/Self-driving: Navigate to "Donghua Gate of the Palace Museum" or "North Gate of the Palace Museum (Gate of Divine Might)". Parking lots are limited nearby, so public transportation is recommended. III. Recommended Routes 1. Classic Central Axis Route (2–3 hours) Suitable for visitors with limited time to see the core buildings: 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 2. In-depth Tour Route (4–6 hours) Suitable for history buffs to explore the East and West Palaces and special exhibition halls: Meridian Gate → Hall of Martial Valor (Painting and Calligraphy Gallery) → Hall of Literary Glory (Ceramics Gallery) → Hall of Supreme Harmony → Hall of Central Harmony → Hall of Preserving Harmony → Palace of Heavenly Purity → Hall of Union → Palace of Earthly Tranquility → East Six Palaces (Palace of Prolonging Happiness, etc.) → Treasure Gallery → Clock and Watch Gallery → Gate of Divine Might 3. Family Route Focus on fun and relaxation, combined with interactive experiences: Meridian Gate → Hall of Supreme Harmony → Palace of Heavenly Purity → Imperial Garden → Palace Museum Cultural and Creative Store → Gate of Divine Might (You can visit Corner Tower Cafe after exiting the palace) Interactive recommendations: Palace Museum Digital Gallery (reservation required), stamp collecting (Palace of Gathering Elegance, Ice Cellar Bookstore, etc.). IV. Must-See Attractions 1. Three Great Halls (Hall of Supreme Harmony, Hall of Central Harmony, Hall of Preserving Harmony): The core area where emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties held grand ceremonies and conducted official business. 2. Palace of Heavenly Purity, Hall of Union, Palace of Earthly Tranquility: The living quarters of the emperor and empress, symbolizing "the harmony of heaven and earth." 3. Treasure Gallery (Ningshou Palace area): Exhibits of rare treasures such as royal jewelry, jade, and goldware. 4. Clock and Watch Gallery (Hall of Ancestral Worship): Displays of court clocks and watches from the 18th and 19th centuries that combine Chinese and Western styles. 5. Imperial Garden: Classical garden design, perfect for resting and taking photos. 6. Corner Tower: An iconic building of the Palace Museum. A panoramic view can be taken on the east and west sides outside the Gate of Divine Might. V. Important Notes Strict security check: Lighters, drones, selfie sticks, etc. are prohibited (can be stored for free). Wear comfortable shoes: The Palace Museum covers an area of 720,000 square meters, so there is a lot of walking. Tour guide services: Rent an audio guide (CNY 20/unit, deposit CNY 200); Download the official "Palace Museum" APP on your mobile phone (including free audio guide); - Hire a personal tour guide (approx. CNY 300/2.5 hours, book at the Meridian Gate). VI. Photography Tips Best times: When it opens in the morning or 1 hour before closing in the afternoon, the light is soft and there are fewer tourists. Classic spots: Hall of Supreme Harmony Square (shoot the palace and sky from below); Red Wall Corridor (East Tongzi Alley); Corner Tower Reflection (moat); Gate of Divine Might Tower (overlooking Jingshan Park and the central axis). Tips 1. Be sure to bring your ID card and enter the park by scanning your ID after making a reservation. 2. It is recommended to arrive before 8:30 during peak season to avoid the peak of tour groups. 3. After exiting the palace through the Gate of Divine Might, you can walk to Wanchun Pavilion in Jingshan Park to overlook the panoramic view of the Palace Museum (ticket CNY 2). 4. Visit in a civilized manner and do not touch cultural relics or climb over fences. The Palace Museum carries the profound history of Chinese civilization. Plan your route in advance and immerse yourself in the grandeur and beauty of the royal architecture!