ios
android
BYN 
RUB 
The largest palace complex in the world and a place where the fate of an entire nation was decided for centuries. The Forbidden City, built in the center of Beijing in the early 15th century, served as the imperial residence and China’s administrative center for over 500 years. Today, it is not only a historic monument but also a major museum attracting millions of tourists from around the globe. Its significance goes beyond national history: it has become a symbol of the country, its traditions, and its grandeur. Learn what to see at the Forbidden City so you don’t miss a thing. And with hotel search and booking and flight booking, and the business travel service TravelHub.
Architecture and Structure
The Forbidden City is located in Beijing, near Tiananmen Square. It covers approximately 180 hectares and consists of more than 980 buildings arranged in a complex layout with clear symmetry. The main structures line the central axis — the Imperial Palace, where the most important ceremonies took place and administrative affairs were handled. Within the complex, there are halls for audiences, treasure repositories, and residential quarters for the emperors and their families. For its time, unique techniques were employed: all buildings were constructed without traditional chimneys — heating was provided through the floors.
Everything is rendered in the classic Chinese style: roofs are adorned with golden dragons and figurines, and walls are painted in vibrant colors (red symbolizing happiness and luck, yellow representing imperial authority). A notable feature is the use of wooden structures featuring exquisite carvings and decorative elements. The entire complex is divided into an inner palace and outer courtyards, which are enclosed by high walls and moats for protection.
Historical Significance
The Forbidden City was the center of power in China from 1420 until the 1911 revolution. This is where the emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties, along with their court advisors, officials, and servants, lived and worked. The complex was not only the monarch’s residence but also the political heart of the country, where the most important state decisions were made. The story of China’s emperors would be incomplete without the Forbidden City — it epitomized the absolute power of its rulers. For centuries, it was off-limits to ordinary people, but now anyone can visit — start searching for flights right now.
Museum
Today, the Forbidden City operates as Beijing’s largest open-air museum — the Gugong Museum. Its halls house over a million artifacts, including paintings, ceramics, jewelry, rare manuscripts, and everyday objects from ancient Chinese dynasties. Visitors can explore the rich history of the country through exhibitions dedicated to imperial ceremonies, palace culture, and art. A visit not only lets you witness the magnificent architecture of the Forbidden City but also immerse yourself in the atmosphere of ancient China.
How to Get to the Forbidden City?
The Forbidden City is open from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM during the summer and until 4:30 PM in the winter (last entry is one hour before closing). It is open from Tuesday to Sunday and on Mondays if it’s a public holiday. Tickets can be purchased online (foreigners using their passports) or on site. Prices are about $6 or $8, depending on the season. For a comfortable visit, we recommend wearing appropriate footwear and planning your route through the vast complex in advance — it’s very large. This also makes for a great way to spend your leisure time during a business trip.
Tips for Tourists
The best time to visit the Forbidden City is in late spring or early fall. During these periods, the weather is cool and there are fewer tourists.
Be sure to set aside time to explore the main halls — the Hall of Supreme Harmony and the Gate of Divine Might. Nearby, you can also admire the bronze lion statues, symbols of prestige and power. Additionally, take a stroll through the picturesque courtyards showcasing traditional architecture and the magnificent Imperial Garden.
