Forbidden CityGugong
🏛️ What It Is
The Forbidden City is the world’s largest complex of imperial palaces, covering an area of 720,000 square meters and containing more than 9,000 rooms. Construction began in the fourth year of the Yongle reign of the Ming Dynasty (1406), and 24 emperors resided there over the years. It was inscribed on the World Heritage List in 1987.
✨ Why Visit
The Forbidden City is China’s most important historical site. Strolling through its magnificent courtyards and halls, you can directly experience the majesty of imperial power and the grandeur of Chinese civilization.
Tips for Visitors
Online reservations are required—tickets are not sold on-site
Since 2017, the Palace Museum has sold tickets exclusively through its official WeChat Mini Program, with a daily quota of approximately 40,000 visitors. Tickets go on sale at 8:00 PM exactly 7 days in advance; you must provide your passport number.
We recommend entering via Jinyu Hutong Station on Line 8
The only entrance is the Meridian Gate (South Gate). Take Line 8 to Jinyu Hutong Station, Exit C, walk to Donghua Gate, and follow the Tuzih River to the Meridian Gate—this will help you avoid the long security check lines at Tiananmen Square.
Be sure to bring your passport
A passport is required for entry, and the name on the ticket must exactly match the name on your passport. Entry is verified via real-name registration and facial recognition.
Closed on Mondays
The Forbidden City is closed every Monday for maintenance (except on national holidays).
Common Mistakes
❌ Showing up without a reservation
I thought I could buy tickets on-site.
Consequence: I was turned away at the gate. The Forbidden City stopped selling tickets on-site a long time ago.
❌ Went on a Monday
I didn’t know the Forbidden City is closed every Monday.
Consequence: Wasted the whole morning.
Ticket Information
- Price
- 60 yuan (peak season: April–October) / 40 yuan (off-season: November–March)
- Foreign Visitor Price
- Same price for foreign visitors
- Student Discount
- ✅ Yes
- Booking
- ⚠️ Must Book Ahead
- Book in Advance
- Book 7 days in advance
- Booking Platform
- WeChat Mini Program “The Palace Museum” (the only official channel)
Location
No. 4 Jingshanqian Street, Dongcheng District, Beijing
Opening Hours
Open 8:30–17:00 (Apr–Oct) / 8:30–16:30 (Nov–Mar), closed Mondays
Best Time to Visit
Enter as soon as the gates open at 8:30 a.m. on weekdays. During peak season, tickets go on sale promptly at 8:00 p.m. seven days in advance. Closed on Mondays.