The Forbidden City sits at the historic heart of Beijing, a vast palace complex of red walls, golden roofs and ceremonial courtyards. Completed in 1420, it was home to 24 Ming and Qing emperors and remained the seat of imperial power until the end of the Qing dynasty in 1912. Today it is the Palace Museum, where the architecture and collections offer an unusually vivid window into court life.
The scale is most striking along the central axis, where gates and courtyards lead to the Hall of Supreme Harmony, the grand setting for major state ceremonies. These spaces were designed to express imperial authority, but the details reward a slower look: carved marble terraces, painted beams and ranks of roof figures all contribute to the palace’s carefully ordered world.
Away from the busiest central route, explore the eastern and western palace areas for smaller courtyards and galleries of imperial art and objects. The Treasure Gallery is a particular draw for its jade, jewellery and elaborate court pieces; some specialist galleries require an additional ticket.
Book admission in advance through the official Palace Museum website and bring the identification used for your reservation. Wear comfortable shoes and allow at least half a day: visitors generally enter through the Meridian Gate in the south and leave at the north end. From there, cross to Jingshan Park and climb the hill for a sweeping view over the Forbidden City’s rooftops.