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Tourism GuideA field guide to China

Beijing · Attraction

Forbidden City

The Forbidden City also known as the Palace Museum is the worlds largest and best preserved ancient wooden architectural complex serving as the imperial palace for 24 emperors during the Ming and Qing dynasties

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Forbidden City
Beijing, ChinaField notes · Attraction
BeijingUNESCO World HeritageImperial PalaceMing Dynasty

Why go

About Forbidden City

The Forbidden City located in the heart of Beijing is a magnificent architectural masterpiece that served as the imperial palace for nearly 500 years from 1420 to 1912 This UNESCO World Heritage site spans 72 hectares with over 980 buildings containing more than 9000 rooms The complex is divided into two main sections the Outer Court where emperors conducted state affairs and the Inner Court where the imperial family lived The architecture follows strict principles of symmetry and hierarchy reflecting traditional Chinese cosmology and imperial authority The palaces golden roofs vermilion walls and intricate decorations symbolize the supreme power of the emperor

Make time for

Practical ideas, not a checklist

  1. 01Explore the Meridian Gate the main entrance and marvel at its imposing structure
  2. 02Visit the Hall of Supreme Harmony the largest wooden structure in China where emperors held grand ceremonies
  3. 03Walk through the Hall of Central Harmony where emperors prepared for ceremonies
  4. 04Discover the Hall of Preserving Harmony where imperial examinations were held
  5. 05Cross the Gate of Heavenly Purity into the Inner Court
  6. 06Explore the Palace of Heavenly Purity the emperors residence
  7. 07Visit the Hall of Union where imperial seals were stored
  8. 08See the Palace of Earthly Tranquility the empresss residence
  9. 09Wander through the Imperial Garden with its ancient trees and pavilions
  10. 10Visit the Clock Exhibition Hall to see exquisite timepieces
  11. 11Explore the Treasure Gallery displaying imperial collections
  12. 12Climb the Coal Hill at Jingshan Park for panoramic views of the Forbidden City

Good to know

Built Year
1406-1420
Architectural Style
Traditional Chinese Palace Architecture
UNESCO Designation
1987
Total Area
720000 square meters
Number of Rooms
Over 9000
Construction Period
14 years
Main Materials
Wood Stone Marble
Imperial Residents
24 Emperors

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