Viator Rating : 5 (1844 reviews)
Beijing
Forbidden City Small Group Tour: Skip-the-Line Entry
Overview
Discover the wonders of Beijing's Forbidden City on a 4-hour small group tour! Perfect for history buffs, culture seekers, and architecture enthusiasts, this walking tour brings the palace to life. Instead of just seeing the buildings, the guide shares stories and history. Explore major buildings and courtyards in a small group of no more than 10 people, ensuring a personal experience.
What to Expect: The adventure starts at the Beijing Urban Planning Exhibition Center, your meeting point for the day. From there, the group will explore Tiananmen Square, the vast public square at the heart of Beijing, before entering the magnificent Forbidden City. Inside, witness the grandeur of the Hall of Supreme Harmony and the Hall of Central Harmony. Then enjoy the Imperial Garden's beauty. Depending on the option selected, the tour could end at Jingshan Park (Coal Hill Park) for panoramic city views.
The tour includes Forbidden City entrance fees and a professional guide. For those selecting the Coal Hill Park option, the entrance ticket is also included. This experience does not include hotel pick-up or drop-off, or gratuities. Note that choosing the Tian'anmen Square and Forbidden City option means foregoing a visit to Coal Hill Park, and vice versa. Be ready to walk and explore the historical treasures of Beijing! 
Highlights
Small Group Experience: Enjoy a more personal tour with a group limited to 10 people.
Skip-the-Line Access: Breeze past the crowds with included entry tickets to the Forbidden City.
Expert Local Guide: Learn the fascinating history and stories behind the palace.
See Major Landmarks: Visit the Hall of Supreme Harmony, Imperial Garden, and more.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers love that the small group size makes it easy to hear the guide and ask questions.
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Many visitors appreciated learning about the history and stories behind the Forbidden City.
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Travelers liked seeing the main halls and gardens.
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The guide's knowledge and ability to share information in an engaging way was a plus
Some people mention they want hotel pick up and drop off.
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A few reviewers mentioned that the tour involved a lot of walking.
The Journey
Beijing Urban Planning Exhibition Hall
Begin your adventure at the Beijing Urban Planning Exhibition Hall, the meeting point for the Tiananmen Square and Forbidden City tour. While the hall itself showcases Beijing's urban development, it serves as the gateway to your journey into the city's historical core. Here, you'll meet your guide and prepare to traverse the iconic Tiananmen Square en route to the majestic Forbidden City, setting the stage for an immersive exploration of China's imperial past.
Tiananmen Square
Experience the sheer magnitude of Tiananmen Square, the world's largest city square and the symbolic heart of China. Stroll across its vast expanse, absorbing the historical significance of this iconic landmark. Learn about the square's pivotal role in Chinese history, from imperial ceremonies to modern-day national events. Your expert guide will provide insightful commentary on the surrounding monumental buildings, offering a profound understanding of China's political and cultural landscape. Be aware that security checks can be stringent, especially during peak season, potentially requiring patience or a flexible approach to ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit. Prepare to be moved by the weight of history as you stand in this significant public space.
Forbidden City
Step into the mesmerizing world of the Forbidden City, the former imperial palace and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Immerse yourself in the rich history of the Ming and Qing dynasties as you explore the palace's intricate architecture, opulent halls, and hidden courtyards. Uncover the stories behind the palace walls, gaining insight into the lives of emperors, empresses, and court officials. Delve into the treasures housed in the palace museums, marveling at the exquisite artifacts and artworks that showcase China's artistic and cultural heritage. Let your guide lead you through the maze of history, unveiling the secrets of this magnificent palace complex.
Hall of Supreme Harmony
Stand in awe before the Hall of Supreme Harmony, the largest and most important structure within the Forbidden City. Imagine the grand ceremonies and imperial audiences that once took place within its hallowed walls. Marvel at the intricate details of the hall's architecture, from its towering roof to its ornate decorations. This is where the emperor handled state affairs, a place of ultimate power.
Hall of Central Harmony
Explore the Hall of Central Harmony, where the emperor prepared for important ceremonies and received high-ranking officials. Admire the hall's elegant design and its harmonious blend of architectural elements. Discover the significance of this space in the daily life of the emperor and the functioning of the imperial court. A place of reflection and preparation.
Imperial Garden
Find serenity in the Imperial Garden, a tranquil oasis at the northern end of the Forbidden City. Wander through its lush landscapes, admiring the ancient trees, ornate rock formations, and delicate pavilions. Escape the bustle of the palace and immerse yourself in the peaceful atmosphere of this hidden gem. Use this as a jumping-off point for your own exploration after the tour.
Jingshan Park (Coal Hill Park)
Ascend Jingshan Park, also known as Coal Hill Park, for panoramic views of Beijing and the Forbidden City. Enjoy a short hike to the summit, where you'll be rewarded with breathtaking vistas of the city's sprawling landscape. Capture stunning photos of the Forbidden City from above, appreciating its grandeur and scale from a unique perspective. This park offers a peaceful retreat and a chance to reflect on the history and beauty of Beijing.
Know Before You Go
This tour includes entrance fees to the Forbidden City and, depending on the option selected, Coal Hill Park or Tiananmen Square. A professional guide will lead the tour. It excludes hotel pick-up and drop-off services, as well as gratuities. If the Tian'anmen Square and Forbidden City option is selected, Coal Hill Park will not be visited. Conversely, the Forbidden City and Coal Hill Park option excludes Tian'anmen Square. Meet the tour in front of the Beijing Urban Planning Exhibition Center to begin the exploration.
Hot Tip
Wear comfortable shoes, as there is a lot of walking involved. Also, bring water to stay hydrated, especially during the warmer months.
Review Summary
People usually say the Forbidden City small group tour is well-organized, informative, and offers a great balance of storytelling and exploration. Many travelers appreciate the small group size and knowledgeable guides, while some note that the pace can be brisk and recommend comfortable shoes for walking.
Frequently Asked Questions
This page is synthesized and developed by Dyvarcity Team
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