Viator Rating : 5 (1258 reviews)
Forbidden City-The Palace Museum
Forbidden City Ticket: Direct Entry & Optional Guide
Overview
Beijing Forbidden City Ticket Booking lets people see the amazing Forbidden City. This special place was a secret city for emperors from 1420 to 1912. It has almost 1,000 buildings! Get ready to walk around and see old Chinese treasures.
With this ticket, visitors go straight into the Forbidden City. See important spots like the Meridian Gate (Wu Men), where emperors made big announcements. Walk through the Hall of Supreme Harmony (Taihe Dian), the biggest building in the city, and the Hall of Preserving Harmony (Baohe Dian), where important tests happened. Then, go to the Gate of Heavenly Purity (Qianqing Men) and explore the Eastern Chambers and the Imperial Garden.
The ticket lets visitors in. But food, drinks, and hotel rides are not included. This tour lets people explore Chinese history without needing to go through Tiananmen Square. 
Highlights
Skip the Line: Go straight into the Forbidden City with your ticket.
Explore Ancient China: See where emperors lived and ruled for hundreds of years.
See Amazing Buildings: Walk through almost 1,000 buildings filled with Chinese art.
Visit Famous Spots: Check out the Meridian Gate, Hall of Supreme Harmony, and Imperial Garden.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers enjoyed skipping the long ticket lines with the direct entry.
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Visitors found the Forbidden City to be a very interesting and historical place.
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Many reviewers appreciated the grandeur and scale of the palace complex.
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Travelers felt they got a good value for the price of the ticket.
Some visitors felt overwhelmed by the crowds inside the Forbidden City.
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A few reviewers wished there were more English-language signs and information available.
The Journey
Forbidden City
Unlock direct access to the Forbidden City, the sprawling palace complex that served as the imperial residence for emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties from 1420 to 1912. Bypass ticket lines by pre-booking with your passport details and entering directly through security. Immerse yourself in centuries of history as you explore the intricate courtyards, opulent halls, and hidden gardens, gaining a privileged glimpse into the lives of emperors and their court. Remember to check the seasonal entry schedule to maximize your visit and witness the grandeur of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Meridian Gate (Wu Men)
Pass through the Meridian Gate, the grand southern entrance and main gate to the Forbidden City. Marvel at its imposing presence as the largest and highest building within the palace walls. Historically, this gate was reserved for the emperor's exclusive use, marking the threshold between the earthly realm and the celestial power he represented. Imagine the grand ceremonies and pronouncements that once echoed within its walls, a powerful introduction to the imperial world that awaits.
Hall of Supreme Harmony (Taihe Dian)
Stand in awe before the Hall of Supreme Harmony, also known as the 'Hall of Golden Throne,' the most significant structure within the Forbidden City. As the largest wooden structure in China, this hall served as the venue for the most important state ceremonies, including coronations and imperial birthdays. Visualize the emperor upon his throne, surrounded by officials and dignitaries, as you contemplate the sheer scale and symbolic power of this architectural masterpiece.
Hall of Preserving Harmony (Baohe Dian)
Explore the Hall of Preserving Harmony, the final of the three main halls in the Outer Court of the Forbidden City. This hall was historically used for banquets and later for imperial examinations, a testament to the importance of scholarship and meritocracy within the imperial system. Reflect on the countless scholars who aspired to serve the emperor within these walls, and appreciate the hall's role in shaping China's intellectual and political landscape.
Gate of Heavenly Purity (Qianqing Men)
Pass through the Gate of Heavenly Purity, the symbolic divide between the Outer Court, dedicated to state affairs, and the Inner Court, the emperor's private residential area. This gate marks a transition into a more intimate world, where the emperor conducted his personal life and interacted with his family. Feel the shift in atmosphere as you cross this threshold, imagining the secrets and intrigues that unfolded within the private chambers beyond.
Eastern Chambers
Discover the significance of the eastern chambers, which once served as bridal rooms for the emperor and empress, underscoring the importance of marriage and lineage in maintaining imperial power. These chambers, imbued with romance and tradition, offer a glimpse into the personal lives of the imperial family, adding a layer of human connection to the grandeur of the palace. Imagine the elaborate wedding ceremonies and the hopes for future generations that once filled these spaces.
Imperial Garden
Find tranquility in the Imperial Garden, a serene oasis behind the Hall of Earthly Tranquility where the imperial family sought respite from the rigors of court life. Wander through its meticulously landscaped grounds, admiring the ancient trees, ornate pavilions, and carefully arranged rockeries. Experience a moment of peace and reflection in this hidden sanctuary, a testament to the emperors' desire for harmony and balance amidst the demands of their rule.
Know Before You Go
This Forbidden City ticket gives you direct entry. Food, drinks, and hotel rides are not included. You will need to make your own way to the East or West Gate of the Forbidden City. Bring your passport, because you will need it to enter. This ticket does not include Tiananmen Square.
Hot Tip
Go early in the morning to beat the crowds! It gets very busy later in the day. Also, wear comfortable shoes because you'll be doing a lot of walking!
Review Summary
People usually say the booking process is seamless and direct entry with a passport is very convenient. Many appreciate the clear communication and hassle-free experience, but some note that tickets sell out quickly and recommend booking exactly 7 days in advance. A few travelers mention that the official website can be difficult to use, so booking through Viator is a reliable alternative.
Frequently Asked Questions
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