Tourism GuideForbidden City Palaces
The Forbidden City also known as the Palace Museum is the worlds largest and best preserved ancient wooden architectural complex representing the pinnacle of Chinese imperial palace architecture and culture
Key Information
Construction Period
1406-1420 during the Ming Dynasty
Architectural Style
Traditional Chinese palace architecture with wooden structures
UNESCO Status
World Heritage Site since 1987
Total Area
720000 square meters
Number of Rooms
8707 rooms according to legend
Imperial Residents
24 emperors from Ming and Qing dynasties
Collection Size
Over 18 million cultural relics
Annual Visitors
Approximately 17 million visitors
The Forbidden City located at the heart of Beijing served as the imperial palace for 24 emperors during the Ming and Qing dynasties from 1420 to 1912 This magnificent complex covers 72 hectares with 980 buildings containing 8707 rooms The palace is divided into two main sections the Outer Court where emperors conducted state affairs and the Inner Court which served as the living quarters for the imperial family The entire complex is surrounded by a 10meter high wall and a 52meter wide moat creating a truly forbidden city accessible only to the emperor his family and select officials The architecture follows strict Confucian principles with symmetrical layouts and hierarchical arrangements reflecting the cosmic order and imperial authority
Things to Do
- Explore the Meridian Gate the main entrance and marvel at its imposing five passageway structure
- Visit the Hall of Supreme Harmony the largest hall where emperors held grand ceremonies and enthronements
- Admire the intricate details of the Hall of Central Harmony where emperors prepared for ceremonies
- Discover the Hall of Preserving Harmony where imperial examinations were held and banquets took place
- Walk through the Gate of Heavenly Purity marking the transition from Outer to Inner Court
- Explore the Palace of Heavenly Purity the emperors residence and office in the Inner Court
- Visit the Hall of Union where imperial seals were stored and important documents were kept
- See the Palace of Earthly Tranquility the empresss residence and traditional wedding chamber
- Wander through the Imperial Garden with its ancient cypress trees pavilions and rockeries
- Discover the Nine Dragon Screen a magnificent glazed tile wall featuring nine colorful dragons
- Visit the Clock Exhibition Hall showcasing exquisite timepieces from the imperial collection
- Explore the Treasure Gallery displaying imperial jewels jade carvings and precious artifacts
