The Forbidden CityGugong
🏛️ Attraction Overview
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 It’s Worth a Visit
The Forbidden City is China’s most important historical site. As you stroll through its magnificent courtyards and halls, you can directly experience the majesty of imperial power and the grandeur of Chinese civilization.
Practical Tips
You must make a reservation online—tickets are not sold on-site
Since 2017, the Forbidden City has sold tickets exclusively through its official WeChat mini-program, with a daily capacity limit of approximately 40,000 visitors. Tickets go on sale at 8:00 p.m. seven days in advance, and you’ll need to provide your passport number.
We recommend entering from 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 Donghuamen, and follow the Tuzih River to the Meridian Gate—this way, you’ll avoid the long security lines at Tiananmen Square.
Bring your passport
You’ll need your passport to enter, and the name on the ticket must match your passport exactly. Admission requires real-name registration and facial recognition verification.
Closed on Mondays
The Forbidden City is closed for maintenance every Monday (except on national holidays).
Common Mistakes
❌ I went there without a reservation
I thought I could buy tickets on-site.
Consequences: You’ll be turned away at the entrance. The Forbidden City stopped selling tickets on-site a long time ago.
❌ I went on Monday
You didn’t know that the Forbidden City is closed every Monday.
Consequences: Waste a whole morning.
Ticket Information
- Price
- 60 yuan (peak season: April–October) / 40 yuan (off-season: November–March)
- Prices for Foreigners
- Same price for foreign visitors
- Student Discount
- ✅ Available
- Book
- ⚠️ Advance reservation required
- Book in Advance
- 7 Days in Advance
- Booking Platform
- WeChat Mini Program “The Palace Museum” (the only official channel)
Location Information
No. 4 Jingshan Qianjie, Dongcheng District, Beijing
Opening Hours
Open 8:30–17:00 (Apr–Oct) / 8:30–16:30 (Nov–Mar), closed Mondays
Best Time to Visit
On weekdays, enter as soon as the gates open at 8:30 a.m. During peak season, be sure to secure tickets promptly at 8:00 p.m. seven days in advance. Closed on Mondays.