Forbidden City
Forbidden City · 4 Jingshan Front St, Dongcheng District, Beijing, China
Last updated 2026-10-29
By Global Travel Guide Editorial Team
Introduction
Construction began in 1406 under the Yongle Emperor and took 14 years; the palace then housed 24 emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties until 1924. The layout follows a strict north-south axis, with the ceremonial halls at the front and living quarters behind, all inside a 10-metre wall and a 52-metre moat. Around 980 buildings survive. Tickets cost RMB 60 in peak season and RMB 40 in winter, sold only online and not on the day, so reserve about a week ahead. Enter at Meridian Gate in the south and leave by the north gate.
Ticket Price
Peak season (Apr-Oct) RMB 60; off-season (Nov-Mar) RMB 40; Treasure Gallery RMB 10 extra; Clock and Watch Gallery RMB 10 extra. Book on dpm.org.cn; no same-day tickets.
Opening Hours
Peak season (Apr–Oct): 8:30–17:00 (last entry 16:10); Off-season (Nov–Mar): 8:30–16:30 (last entry 15:40); Closed Mondays except public holidays. Check the official site before visiting.
Transportation
Subway Line 1 to Tiananmen East or Tiananmen West (walk through Tiananmen Square to Meridian Gate south entrance); Bus 1, 2, 59, 82, 120 to Tiananmen East; Taxi drop-off at Tiananmen Square
Best Season
April–May and September–October for pleasant weather; summer (June–August) is hot, crowded, and often has hazy skies; winter is cold but has the fewest crowds and beautiful snow scenes when it snows
Pro Tip: Book with your passport and enter from the south
Local Tips You'd Only Learn After Visiting
The details official guides skip — save time, avoid crowds, and get better photos.
1
Book with your passport and enter from the south Tickets are tied to your passport and usually released several days ahead. Enter through Meridian Gate and walk north toward the exit at the Gate of Divine Prowess.
Member-Only Tips
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Frequently Asked Questions4 questions
Yes, it is closed on Mondays except public holidays. It is open Tuesday-Sunday, 8:30-17:00 from April to October and 8:30-16:30 from November to March.
Tickets are sold online only, tied to your passport, and usually released seven days ahead. Bring the same passport to enter.
Enter through Meridian Gate in the south and exit at the Gate of Divine Prowess in the north. The route is one-way.
Allow 3-4 hours for the main halls and side galleries; add Jingshan Park afterward for the view over the roofs.