Walk in the footsteps of emperors with guaranteed entry to the world's largest palace complex and China's most iconic square.
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All the details about your upcoming adventure in one place
Step back in time to the Ming and Qing dynasties with a comprehensive tour of Beijing's historic core. Your journey typically begins at the colossal Tiananmen Square, the world's largest public square, where you'll witness monuments to China's modern history. From there, you'll pass through the Gate of Heavenly Peace to enter the Forbidden City, a UNESCO World Heritage site that served as the imperial palace for 24 emperors over nearly 500 years. Explore the intricate architecture of the Hall of Supreme Harmony, the Imperial Garden, and the private living quarters of the Inner Court. Whether you choose a detailed walking tour or a private guided experience, you'll gain unparalleled insight into the secrets, politics, and daily life of the imperial household.
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Gain deeper insights with licensed English-speaking guides who know the history inside out
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Choose from morning, afternoon, private, or small group tours to fit your schedule
Enjoy peace of mind with free cancellation policies on most bookings up to 24 hours before
Spring (April-May) for mild weather and flowers|Autumn (September-October) for clear skies and comfortable temperatures|Winter for fewer crowds and potential snow scenery
Comfortable walking shoes are mandatory|Layers for changing weather|Sun hat and sunglasses in summer|Warm coat and gloves in winter
Built between 1406 and 1420|Served as the home of emperors and their households|Political center of Chinese government until 1912
Most tours offer free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start time. Check specific ticket-only policies as they may vary.
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Real experiences from real travelers
Our guide, Li, was phenomenal. The Forbidden City is massive and overwhelming, but she navigated us to the best spots and explained the history in a way that was engaging, not boring. Tiananmen Square was surreal to see in person. Highly recommend booking a tour to skip the ticket stress.
Getting tickets on your own is a nightmare. This tour was a lifesaver. We met at the designated spot, breezed through the checks (passport is a must!), and had a fantastic 4-hour walk. The stories about the concubines were fascinating.
The architecture is stunning. I loved the Imperial Garden. Just be warned, it is very cold in winter and there is a lot of walking. Wear comfortable shoes! The guide spoke excellent English and helped us take great photos.
You can't come to Beijing and not do this. The sheer scale of the palace is hard to comprehend. Doing a private tour allowed us to go at our own pace and ask a million questions. Our driver was also very professional.
I appreciated the depth of knowledge our guide possessed. We learned so much about the Ming and Qing dynasties. The entry process was smooth, which is rare for such a popular attraction.
The tour organization was perfect. The guide used a headset so we could hear him clearly despite the crowds. It's very busy, so be prepared for that, but the skip-the-line benefit is real.
Walking through the Meridian Gate felt like being in a movie. The history is heavy but important. Our guide made sure we saw the Clock Gallery which was a hidden gem. Don't forget your passport!
Everything ran on time. The meeting point was easy to find. The guide was very knowledgeable and respectful. I learned a lot about the architecture and symbolism. A solid 5-star experience.
Everything you need to know for your journey
Yes, the Forbidden City is closed every Monday (except for Chinese national holidays). Plan your itinerary accordingly.
Yes, absolutely. You must present your original, physical passport at the security checkpoint. Photocopies or photos on your phone are not accepted.
We strongly recommend booking at least 7-10 days in advance. Tickets are released 7 days prior at 8:00 PM Beijing time and often sell out within minutes. Booking a tour is often the most reliable way to secure entry.
No. All visitors must enter through the Meridian Gate (South Gate) and exit from the Gate of Divine Prowess (North Gate) or the East Prosperity Gate. The route is one-way only.
While there is no strict formal dress code, visitors should dress modestly and respectfully. Avoid clothing with offensive slogans. Comfortable walking shoes are essential as you will walk several kilometers.
Yes, there are small shops and a restaurant inside the complex selling water, snacks, and simple meals. However, prices can be higher than outside, so bringing your own water is recommended.
Most guided walking tours last between 3 to 5 hours. A thorough self-guided visit can easily take 4+ hours due to the sheer size of the complex.
Partially. The central axis is paved and relatively flat, but there are many high thresholds and cobblestones. Some areas have ramps, but navigating the entire complex with a wheelchair can be challenging without assistance.
Cameras are allowed and photography is encouraged for personal use. However, commercial equipment and large tripods are often restricted or require special permits. Drones are strictly prohibited in Beijing's central airspace.
The Tea House Scam involves overly friendly strangers (often posing as students) inviting you to a tea ceremony or art gallery, then forcing you to pay an exorbitant bill (hundreds of dollars). politely decline any such invitations from strangers on the street.
Yes, your ticket is valid for one entry on the specific date. You can stay until closing time, usually 5:00 PM (4:30 PM in winter).
Yes, automatic audio guides are available for rent at the entrance in multiple languages, including English. However, a live guide provides a more interactive and detailed experience.
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