Share this tour
Offered languages
- English
Step into the heart of imperial China with a deeply immersive Forbidden City tour that goes beyond the surface. Led by a knowledgeable and passionate guide, this experience uncovers the hidden stories behind the majestic halls, secret gardens, and royal treasures of the world’s largest palace complex.
What sets our tour apart is the perfect balance of history, storytelling, and insider access. You won’t just see the iconic sites like the Hall of Supreme Harmony and the Imperial Garden—you’ll understand their meaning through the lives of the emperors, empresses, and court officials who once walked these grounds. We also include a visit to the Treasure Gallery, where you’ll view rare imperial jewels and artifacts not covered by most basic tours.
Whether it's your first visit or your tenth, this curated journey will leave you with a new appreciation for the Forbidden City's grandeur and legacy.
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
Take the subway to Line 8 of the Beijing Metro. If you're on another line, transfer to Line 8 at an interchange station. Once on Line 8, ride the train to Jinyu Hutong Station (金鱼胡同站). After arriving at Jinyu Hutong Station, follow the station signs and walk to Exit C.
Conclusion at the North Gate of the Forbidden City.
Itinerary
-
1Hall of Great Harmony (Taihe Dian)
The Hall of Supreme Harmony is the largest hall in the Forbidden City, situated at the front of the central axis. It was used for grand ceremonies such as coronations, imperial weddings, and enthronements during the Ming and Qing dynasties.
20 minutes • Admission ticket included -
2Hall of Middle Harmony (Zhonghe Dian)
The Hall of Central Harmony served as a resting and preparation area for the emperor before major ceremonies, located between the Halls of Supreme Harmony and Preserving Harmony.
20 minutes • Admission ticket included -
3Hall of Preserving Harmony (Baohedian)
The Hall of Preserving Harmony was used for banquets and the final stage of the imperial examination. It was a venue where the emperor received officials and conducted significant events.
20 minutes • Admission ticket included -
4Palace of Heavenly Purity
The Palace of Heavenly Purity was the emperor's residence and the place where he handled daily state affairs, symbolizing the center of imperial power.
20 minutes • Admission ticket included -
5
The Hall of Union, situated between the Palaces of Heavenly Purity and Earthly Tranquility, symbolizes the harmony of heaven and earth. It housed the empress's seals and important ceremonial items.
20 minutes • Admission ticket included -
6Palace of Earthly Tranquility
The Palace of Earthly Tranquility was the empress's residence. In the later Qing period, parts of it were converted into a site for Manchu Shamanist rituals.
20 minutes • Admission ticket included -
7The Imperial Garden of The Palace Museum
The Imperial Garden, located at the northern end of the Inner Court, was a leisure area for the imperial family. The garden features intricate designs and beautiful landscapes.
30 minutes • Admission ticket included -
8
The Royal Treasure Museum, located in the Ningshou Palace area, showcases precious artifacts from the Ming and Qing dynasties, including gold and silver wares, jade articles, and jewelry.
30 minutes • Admission ticket included
Additional info
- Wheelchair accessible
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Tags
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Show more
Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
Your guide to the flawless travel experience
Top Searches
Company
Get our app
