Forbidden City (Palace Museum)

The basics

With so much to see at this Beijing landmark—everything from the living quarters of emperors to ceremonial rooms and galleries lined with an extensive collection of Imperial artifacts and ancient Chinese works of art—many visitors opt to visit with a guide. They can give you a good view of the Ming and Qing dynasties, or at least what life was like during those times, and point out the complex’s most interesting features. Don’t miss the Imperial Garden where the emperor would get his nature fix.

Those short on time in the Chinese capital can opt for a day tour that combines a Forbidden City visit with time at other Beijing attractions, such as Tiananmen Square, Temple of Heaven, Summer Palace, and the Great Wall of China. Nearby, there are also a number of museums, pagodas, pavilions, and gardens.

Things to know before you go

• Choose between standard entrance Forbidden City (Palace Museum) tickets and city tours that include access to the Temple of Heaven and the Summer Palace.

• For a more personal experience of the Forbidden City and other Beijing highlights, choose a private tour.

• As many as 80,000 people visit the Forbidden City daily, so it’s best to book tickets several days in advance or book Forbidden City (Palace Museum) tours that include skip-the-line access.

• The Forbidden City offers little shade, so bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water if visiting on a warm day.

• Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for a fair amount of walking if you really want to explore the Forbidden City.

How to get there

Arriving by public transport or walking is preferred over taxis. Taxis are not allowed to stop nearby. Take the subway Line 1 to Tiananmen West or Tiananmen East, or catch one of the many buses going to Gugong. Tourists must enter the Forbidden City through the Meridian Gate found on the southern border of the city.

When to get there

To avoid crowds at this popular Beijing, China attraction, it’s best to visit first thing in the morning when the ticket office opens. Avoid weekends and Chinese national holidays.

Best view of the Forbidden City

Before or after touring the Forbidden City, it’s nice to get a sense of its size by seeing it from above. Jingshan Park, located just across from the palace’s north gate, is home to the highest point in Beijing and affords the best panoramic, bird’s-eye view of the Forbidden City.