The Forbidden City, an architectural marvel and cultural treasure in the heart of Beijing, offers visitors a unique glimpse into the grandeur of China’s imperial past. As one of the most well-preserved and largest palace complexes in the world, it houses a myriad of fascinating attractions and activities that bring its rich history to life. Whether you’re a history buff, a culture enthusiast, or simply a curious traveler, exploring the Forbidden City can be an unforgettable experience. Here are the top 20 things to do and see within this magnificent historical site, ensuring you make the most of your visit.
Stamp Collection
Collecting stamps from various designated spots within the Forbidden City is a delightful activity that adds a unique touch to your visit. Key locations include the Icehouse Restaurant, Chuxiu Palace “Royal Telephone Bureau,” the Chinese Characters Museum, the cultural and creative store at the Treasure Gallery exit, and Corner Tower Coffee. Each stamp represents a different aspect of the palace’s history and culture, making your collection a memorable souvenir.
Play with the Palace Cats
The Forbidden City is home to a number of friendly palace cats that roam freely. You can often spot these charming felines around the Treasure Gallery, Jingren Palace, and Wuying Hall. Their presence adds a touch of whimsy to the historical setting, and encountering them can be a delightful and unexpected part of your visit.
Enjoy Ridge Beast Ice Cream
Treat yourself to Ridge Beast Ice Cream at the Icehouse Restaurant or the Forbidden City Restaurant. This unique ice cream, inspired by traditional Chinese motifs, provides a refreshing and culturally-themed snack as you explore the vast palace grounds.
Palace Afternoon Tea
Experience a royal afternoon tea at the East Courtyard of Kunning Palace. This elegant tea experience allows you to savor a selection of teas and pastries in a setting that reflects the opulence of the imperial court. It’s a perfect way to relax and indulge while taking in the palace’s serene surroundings.
View the “正大光明” Plaque
The Hall of Supreme Harmony (Qianqing Palace) features the iconic “正大光明” plaque, which translates to “Upright and Bright.” This plaque, a symbol of imperial authority and moral integrity, is a must-see for those interested in the cultural and historical significance of the Forbidden City.
Find the Smallest Palace
Discover the Golden Hall of Jiangshan Sheji (江山社稷金殿), the smallest palace within the Forbidden City, standing at just 1.4 meters high. Despite its diminutive size, it holds historical importance and is a testament to the intricate design and planning of the palace complex.
Visit the Gate of Divine Might (Shenwu Gate)
The Gate of Divine Might, featuring a plaque inscribed by the renowned historian Guo Moruo, is a significant historical landmark. This gate marks one of the main entrances to the Forbidden City and is adorned with impressive architectural details that reflect the grandeur of the imperial era.
Explore Yanxi Palace
Fans of historical dramas will recognize Yanxi Palace, featured in the popular series where the character Wei Yingluo resided. The palace’s Western-style building, known as the “Crystal Palace,” is an unfinished structure in reality, but its portrayal in the series has made it a notable point of interest for visitors.
Observe the Ten Roof Beasts of the Hall of Supreme Harmony
The Hall of Supreme Harmony is unique for its ten roof beasts, the highest number found on any building within the Forbidden City. These mythical creatures, which symbolize protection and auspiciousness, highlight the building’s supreme importance and ceremonial role.
Admire the Ceiling of the Imperial Garden Pavilions
The Imperial Garden features pavilions with intricately designed ceilings that symbolize the four seasons. These beautifully crafted ceilings, with their elaborate and delicate patterns, offer a glimpse into the artistic and symbolic elements of imperial Chinese architecture.
Stroll through the Imperial Garden
Once a private retreat for imperial concubines, the Imperial Garden is located along Beijing’s central axis. This serene and beautifully landscaped area offers a chance to explore the peaceful environment that was once a hub for the palace’s inner circle.
See the Largest Bronze Lions
The largest bronze lions in the Forbidden City are positioned in front of the Hall of Supreme Harmony. These grand statues symbolize the supreme authority of the emperor and serve as a striking representation of imperial power.
Chongyin Pavilion Theatre
The Chongyin Pavilion (畅音阁) is the largest theater within the Forbidden City, showcasing the grandeur of imperial entertainment. This theater was used for various performances and ceremonies, and its impressive size reflects the importance of the arts in the imperial court.
Walk the Yin-Yang Path:
The Eastern Long Corridor, known for its mysterious Yin-Yang Path, is steeped in legends and eerie tales. This corridor, with its atmospheric and somewhat spooky ambiance, provides a unique and intriguing exploration of the palace’s lesser-known areas.
Check Out the Four Treasures Outside the Hall of Supreme Harmony:
The Four Treasures include a sun dial, the Jialiang (an ancient measuring vessel), a bronze crane, and a bronze turtle. These items were once used to safeguard the empire and reflect the sophisticated craftsmanship and symbolic significance of the imperial court.
Admire the Nine-Dragon Wall:
Located in front of the Hall of Imperial Peace within the Treasure Gallery, the Nine-Dragon Wall is a famous decorative feature. Another similar wall can be found in Beihai Park, showcasing the artistic and symbolic importance of dragon motifs in Chinese culture.
Visit Shoukang Palace
Shoukang Palace, the residence of Empress Dowager Cixi, is renowned for its luxurious decorations. The palace features the highest-grade “Dragon and Phoenix” motifs, reflecting the opulence and ceremonial importance of the imperial residence.
See the Arrowhead on the Longzong Gate Plaque
The Longzong Gate, located on the west side of the Qianqing Gate Square, features a plaque with a broken arrowhead. This detail, left from a historical rebellion, adds a layer of historical intrigue to the palace’s architectural features.
Photograph the Corner Towers
The Corner Towers, located at the northwest and northeast corners of the Forbidden City, are popular spots for photographers. Their distinctive architecture and picturesque setting make them ideal for capturing stunning images of the palace.
Relax at Corner Tower Coffee
Corner Tower Coffee, located outside the Shenwu Gate, offers a charming café experience with palace-themed coffee and pastries. The café’s ambiance and thematic offerings provide a fitting conclusion to your visit, allowing you to enjoy a taste of the Forbidden City’s royal charm.