Overview
The Imperial Garden of the Palace Museum, also known as the Palace Museum, is a vast complex of traditional Chinese palaces located in the heart of Beijing. It houses an extensive collection of Chinese imperial artifacts and artworks, providing a deep dive into Chinese history and culture.
As the former imperial palace of the Ming and Qing dynasties, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most important cultural relics in China.
Location
Address
4 Jingshan Front St., Dongcheng, Beijing
Neighborhood: Dongcheng District
Coordinates
39.914800, 116.407600
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
March-May and October-November
Best Time of Day
Early morning
fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
mild to warm
- • cherry blossoms
- • gardens in bloom
summer
hot and humid
- • extended evening hours
autumn
cool and comfortable
- • fall foliage
- • cool weather
winter
cold and dry
- • holiday decorations
- • indoor exhibits
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Book tickets in advance
- Bring valid ID
- Check weather forecast
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: moderate, much walking
- • large complex, be prepared for walking
- • stairs in some areas
Medical facilities: first aid available, nearest hospital 5km away
Payment Information
Accepted
cash (CNY), credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, UnionPay)
Currency
Chinese Yuan (CNY)
Typical Costs
Dress Code
casual and comfortable, comfortable walking shoes, walking shoes, inappropriate or revealing clothing, hats indoors
Booking Tips
- • at least a week in advance
- • official website or authorized agents
- • 48 hours in advance for refund
- • available with advance booking
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Forbidden City Official App
Size: 45 MB
Features: Interactive map, Audio guide, Ticket booking, Exhibition information
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafes, Rest areas
Charging Stations: Rest areas, cafes
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK)
Distance: 25 km
Travel Time: 30-45 minutes
From City Center
Distance: 5 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Rich history, cultural significance, and beautiful architecture
Historical Significance: Home to Chinese emperors for over 500 years, a symbol of imperial power and tradition
Insider Tips
- Visit early in the morning for fewer crowds and better lighting
- The best food is often found at the stalls and restaurants near the back entrance
- Some areas may be closed for renovation, check the official website for updates
Local Recommendations
- • Try Peking duck at nearby restaurants
- • Visit the nearby Jingshan Park for a panoramic view of the Forbidden City
- • Explore the local markets and street food around the area
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: Chinese, English, Japanese, Korean
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Hall of Supreme Harmony
Best Time: Early morning
Tips: Low angle for grandeur
Result: Iconic shot of the main hall
Imperial Garden
Best Time: Golden hour in the afternoon
Tips: High angle for the garden layout
Result: Serene and beautiful garden views
Jingshan Park (nearby)
Best Time: Sunset
Tips: Bird's-eye view of the Forbidden City
Result: Panoramic view of the city
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Tiananmen Square
Distance: 500m
Walking: 7 min
Type: Historical Site
Jingshan Park
Distance: 1km
Walking: 15 min
Type: Park
Qianmen Street
Distance: 1.5km
Walking: 20 min
Type: Shopping Street
Beijing Museum of History
Distance: 2km
Walking: 25 min
Type: Museum
Reviews
Based on 5,000 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Book tickets in advance"
- "Visit early in the morning"
- "Wear comfortable shoes"
- "Don't miss the Hall of Supreme Harmony"
Contact Information
Related Tours & Activities (24)
Private Mutianyu Great Wall Layover Tour with Options
4-Hour Private Forbidden City Walking Tour with Bird's ViewOption
4 hours Beijing Layover Tour to Forbidden City & Tiananmen Square
All Inclusive Private City Tour to Temple of Heaven, Tian'anmen Square Forbidden City and Summer Palace
5 Days Beijing and Xian Tour by bullet train
Mini Group: Beijing Forbidden City Tour with Great Wall Hiking at Mutianyu
All-Inclusive Private Tour:Mutianyu Great Wall and Forbidden City
Mini Group: 2-Day Beijing Highlights and Great Wall Tour
3-Day Private Beijing Tour with Forbidden City, Great Wall, Hutong and Lunch
Mutianyu Great Wall and Summer Palace Private Day Trip with Lunch
3-Day Private Beijing Highlights Tour from Shanghai by Bullet Train
Beijing Highlights Tour: Tian'anmen Square, Forbidden City, Mutianyu Great Wall
One-Day Beijing City Tour: Summer Palace and Temple of Heaven
2-Day Private VIP Sightseeing Tour of Beijing City Highlights and Great Wall
Beijing Forbidden City Skip-the-Line and Huanghuacheng Great Wall Private Tour
Beijing 2-Day Private Tour from Shanghai by Bullet Train
6-7 Hours Beijing Summer Palace and Forbidden City Layover Tour
Mutianyu Great Wall and Summer Palace Private Tour with Lunch
Private Longqingxia Gorge Cruise and Great Wall One Day Tour
Beijing Private Tour: Temple of Heaven, Guozijian Museum, Drum Tower, Hutong ...
Private Day Tour to Datong from Beijing by Train: Yungang Caves, Hanging Temple
Best Beijing Day Tour To Forbidden City and Great Wall
Beijing Private Tour of Forbidden City, Hutong Tours, Acrobatics Show and More
Private Day Tour to Datong from Beijing by Bullet Train
Quick Info
Available Tours
127
Rating
4.7 / 5.0
Reviews
5,000
Adult Entry
¥60 (Full price, varies by season)