Why you should visit the Forbidden City as a tourist? I had the opportunity to visit the The Forbidden City when I spent a week in Beijing, China for a work conference. My Chinese friend toured me around Beijing, brought me to popular places, including The Forbidden City.
The Forbidden City is located at the center of Beijing, is a masterpiece of ancient Chinese architecture and one of the most famous landmarks in China. It is a symbol of China’s imperial power and glory, and is considered one of the greatest architectural and cultural treasures of the world. The Forbidden City was the palace of the emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties, and was home to the imperial court and their families for almost 500 years.
The Forbidden City was built between 1406 and 1420, during the reign of Emperor Yongle of the Ming Dynasty. It was designed to be the seat of the emperor’s power, and the center of the world according to ancient Chinese cosmology. The palace covers an area of 72 hectares, and is surrounded by a moat and a 10-meter-high wall. The wall is topped with watchtowers and has four main gates, one on each side.
The Forbidden City is divided into two parts, the Outer Court and the Inner Court. The Outer Court was used for official ceremonies and meetings with foreign dignitaries. The Inner Court was the emperor’s private residence, and was strictly off-limits to anyone not part of the imperial family or court.
The most famous buildings in the Outer Court are the Hall of Supreme Harmony, the Hall of Central Harmony, and the Hall of Preserving Harmony. The Hall of Supreme Harmony is the largest building in the Forbidden City, and was used for important ceremonies, such as the emperor’s coronation and wedding. It has a grand and imposing appearance, with a three-tiered roof and marble terrace. The Hall of Central Harmony was used by the emperor to rest and prepare for important events, while the Hall of Preserving Harmony was used for banquets and other celebrations.
The Inner Court is where the emperor and his family lived. The most famous building in the Inner Court is the Palace of Heavenly Purity, which was the emperor’s living quarters. It is a magnificent building with beautiful gardens and courtyards. The empress lived in the Palace of Earthly Tranquility, which is adjacent to the Palace of Heavenly Purity. The two palaces are connected by a raised walkway, known as the Golden Stream.
Another famous building in the Inner Court is the Hall of Mental Cultivation, which was the residence of the emperor during the Qing Dynasty. The hall was used as a place for the emperor to study, read and write. It is also where the emperor would receive high-ranking officials to discuss state affairs. The Hall of Mental Cultivation was also the place where the emperors would choose their successors.
In addition to the main buildings, the Forbidden City has a number of smaller buildings and courtyards, including the Palace of Tranquil Longevity, the Palace of Gathered Elegance, and the Palace of Prolonging Happiness. These buildings were used by the imperial family for various purposes, such as for relaxation, entertainment, and religious ceremonies.
The Forbidden City is not only an architectural masterpiece, but also a treasure trove of art and culture. The palace is home to a vast collection of art, including paintings, calligraphy, ceramics, jade, and bronze objects. The collection is one of the largest and most valuable in the world, and is a testament to the skill and creativity of Chinese artisans throughout the centuries.
The Forbidden City also played an important role in Chinese history. It was the center of political and cultural life in China for almost 500 years, and witnessed many significant events, including the overthrow of the Ming Dynasty by the Qing Dynasty. The palace was also the site of the Boxer Rebellion in 1900, when a group of Chinese nationalists attacked foreign diplomats and missionaries who were living in the palace.
Today, the Forbidden City is a major tourist attraction and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Millions of visitors from around the world come to see the palace every year, to learn about Chinese history, art, and culture. The Forbidden City has undergone extensive restoration and conservation efforts over the years to preserve its magnificent beauty and historical significance. In recent years, the palace has also become a popular venue for cultural events, such as concerts, art exhibitions, and traditional Chinese performances.
Visitors to the Forbidden City can explore the vast complex, marvel at the exquisite architecture and art, and learn about the lives of the emperors and their families. The palace is open to the public every day, except for Mondays, and visitors are advised to book their tickets in advance to avoid long queues. There are also guided tours available in multiple languages, as well as audio guides for those who prefer to explore on their own.
FInally, the Forbidden City is a stunning example of ancient Chinese architecture and culture, and a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, art, and architecture. Its grandeur and beauty continue to captivate visitors from all over the world, and its significance in Chinese history and culture is undeniable. The Forbidden City is a true treasure of the world, and a testament to the ingenuity and creativity of the Chinese people.
Address
4 Jingshan Front St, Dongcheng, Beijing, China, 100009
Click this for Google Map directions
Admission Fee
This is free to the public.
