Getting to the Forbidden City, Beijing, China

Getting to the Forbidden City

Because the Forbidden City is at the center of Beijing, it is very easy to get to. By subway is probably best - arrive at Tian'AnMen by getting off at 'Tian'AnMen Dong' (Tian'AnMen east) which is the closest of the two Tian'AnMen stations on Line 1. You can also walk to Tian'AnMen from WangFuJing along Chang'An avenue.

Tian'AnMen Gate.

When passing through the arched tunnel of Tian'AnMen below Mao's portrait, look back to see the red flag flying in Tian'AnMen Square.

For a small fee, you can climb the steps of the Tiananmen Gate and once at the top, you will have the opportunity to look out over the Square. Here you will see the same panoramic view that Mao enjoyed while in reign. Because this was Mao's favorite place to watch the people walking below, in his honor a gigantic portrait of him hangs there today.

Looking back at Tian'AnMen from inside, with Tian'AnMen Square beyond

Walk straight ahead northwards until you reach the Meridian Gate of the Forbidden City where you can buy your entrance ticket.

Approaching the Meridian Gate

There are entrances to the Forbidden City in the south and the north. However, it is best to enter via the south gate via Tian'AnMen because this gate is the main gate and traditionally the 'front door'.

This will allow you to experience the carefully laid out complex to best effect; and you will be facing the (sunny) front side of each structure as you progress northwards. You will experience the Forbidden City just as any foreign envoy in the past would have done, humbled by each gate, hall and massive courtyard as he made his way to to see the emporer.

Similarly, we recommend taking the central axis from south to north when first inside the Forbidden City. After reaching the Imperial Garden, you can backtrack to explore the buildings and exhibitions to the east and west of the central axis.

The nearby parks BeiHai, JingShan and ZhongShan are in easy walking distance of the Forbidden City. ZhongShan Park was created as part of an extended palace grounds; it offers views of the Forbidden City across the moat and you can also hire a small pleasure boat. JingShan has a man-made hill with five pavillions on top. The central, highest one offers a good panoramic view of the Forbidden City.

The Forbidden City is open daily all year.

October 16th - April 15th 8:30 - 16:30 Last Entry at 15:30
(including the Clock Gallery and Treasure Gallery)

April 16th - October 15th 8:30 - 17:00 Last Entry at 16:00
(including the Clock Gallery and Treasure Gallery)

Next : The Meridian Gate