Beijing Forbidden City Ticket Booking (Optional: guide service)
Active
3h - 4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Get your direct entry Forbidden City admission ticket to explore this impressive attraction during your Beijing trip. Discover the secrets that have been hidden since Ming dynasty to the end of the Qing dynasty (1420 to 1912). This city was constructed from 1406 to 1420. The city consists of 980 buildings! Have fun spending the day looking at priceless Chinese artifacts.
Please note:
• Passport name and number is required at time of booking for “all participants” upon booking
• This ticket product offers you direct entry to Forbidden City with your Passport
• This is Forbidden City ticket not including Tiananmen Square reservation, you can just take a taxi to East gate or West Gate of Forbidden City and walk to the Main entrace South Gate (Meridian Gate 午门） to enter to Forbidden City directly. No need pass through Tiananmen Square.
Available options
PM Entrance +Treasure gallery
No Guide Include<br/>Meeting point:: Scan passports to enter the Forbidden City from Meridian Gate. No meeting point, find your own way to get there.<br/>Enter between 11:00a.m-3:00p.m: Provide all the visitor's passport name and numbers . This is Forbidden City entrance ticket+treasures gallery ticket.
Morning Entrance Ticket
No Guide Include<br/>Meeting point: Scan passports to enter the Forbidden City from Meridian Gate. No meeting point, find your own way to get there.<br/>Enter between 8:30a.m-12:00p.m: Provide all the visitor's passport name an numbers to book this ticket. This is Forbidden City entrance ticket.
AM Entrance +Treasure gallery
No Guide Include<br/>Meeting point:: Scan passports to enter the Forbidden City from Meridian Gate. No meeting point, find your own way to get there.<br/>Enter between 8:30am-12:00pm: Provide all the visitor's passport name and numbers. This is Forbidden City entrance ticket+treasures gallery ticket.
Ticket+Tour guide(Foreigner)
Meeting point: : Meet infront of Kapok Hotel （东华门木棉花酒店)，Address: No.16th. Donghuamen road, Dongcheng district.<br/>Available for foreigners:: English speaking tour guide, Only applicable to tourists holding foreign passports.
Afternoon Entrance Ticket
No Guide Include<br/>Meeting point: Scan passports to enter the Forbidden City from Meridian Gate. No meeting point, find your own way to get there.<br/>Enter between 11:00a.m-3:00p.m: Provide all the visitor's passport name an numbers to book this ticket. This is Forbidden City entrance ticket.
Ticket+guide(Chinese tourist)
For Chinese(HK,Taiwan tourist): Meeting point: Meet infront of Kapok Hotel （东华门木棉花酒店)，Address: No.16th. Donghuamen road, Dongcheng district.
What's included
Admission ticket
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
After booking with your passport name and number (for all participants), you can access to the Forbidden City directly through the security check and by showing your passport at the main entrance, Meridian Gate.
Forbidden City Schedule:
• Peak Season: April 1st to October 31st (Tuesday to Sunday) - Last Entry is at 16:00
• Summer Vacation: July to August (Monday to Sunday) - Last Entry is at 16:00
• Slow Season: November 1st to March 31st (Tuesday to Sunday) - Last Entry is at 15:30
Please note:
• This is pre booking service, the comfirmation will send 7 days before the tour date.
• Passport name and number is required at time of booking for “all participants” upon booking
• This ticket product offers you direct entry to Forbidden City with your Passport
2
Hall of Supreme Harmony (Taihe Dian) also called 'Hall of Golden Throne', is the grandest hall in the palace and the largest wooden structure in China.
3
The Hall of Preserving Harmony (Baohe Dian) is the last main hall in the Outer Court.
4
The Gate of Heavenly Purity (Qianqing Men) separates the palace into the Outer and Inner Court. Behind the gate is the residential area of the palace.
5
The two chambers in the east were changed into bridal rooms for the emperor and empress; while the remaining four chambers were used as a place of worship.
6
Stop 6
Behind the Hall of Earthly Tranquility is the Imperial Garden where the imperial family members recreated themselves.
What's not included
Food and drinks
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.6
360 reviews
5★
301
4★
26
3★
13
2★
4
1★
16
Tripadvisor
4.8
845 reviews
5★
774
4★
41
3★
11
2★
5
1★
14
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Please note: Passport name and number is required at time of booking for “all participants” upon booking
Passport is required for all travelers on the day of travel for direct entry. (not for Chinese tourist, Chinese tourist must buy the ticket by ID card information)
Please ensure all travelers' passport number and full name (must match your passport) is provided and accurate upon booking. Otherwise, you won't be able to access to the attraction
Chinese tourists( including Taiwan and Hongkong ) must book over 8 days in advance.
Children must be accompanied by an adult
If children's height over 1.2 meters (3'9"), please purchase Youth Ticket upon booking (under 1.2 meters is free to join) Please ensure you follow this restriction upon booking. Don't be risky as Forbidden City will not let your kids in for free if the height is over 1.2 meters.
This is only pre-booking service, if we get the ticket then the comfirmation letter will received 7 days in advance.
The ticket is only valid on the day you book to travel
Important notes
• Please ensure you and your party members' full name (must match your passport) and passport number is provided and accurate upon booking.
• Passport is required for all travelers on the day of travel for direct entry(After you received the confirmation message from us, your passport number will be your entrance ticket)
About Beijing
Beijing, the capital of China, is a city of immense historical significance and modern dynamism. It's home to iconic landmarks, ancient palaces, and a vibrant contemporary culture that blends tradition with modernity. The city offers a unique mix of ancient history, cultural treasures, and modern advancements.
Top Attractions
The Great Wall of China
One of the most iconic landmarks in the world, the Great Wall of China stretches over 21,000 kilometers. The most accessible sections near Beijing are Badaling and Mutianyu.
Historical
Half day to full day
¥40-80 (depending on the section)
Forbidden City
The Forbidden City, also known as the Palace Museum, was the imperial palace during the Ming and Qing dynasties. It houses an extensive collection of artifacts and offers a glimpse into China's imperial past.
Historical
2-3 hours
¥60 (March-October), ¥40 (November-February)
Temple of Heaven
The Temple of Heaven is a complex of religious buildings where emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties performed annual ceremonies of prayer to heaven for good harvests.
Historical
1-2 hours
¥15 (Temple area), ¥35 (Temple and park)
Summer Palace
The Summer Palace is a vast ensemble of lakes, gardens, and palaces. It served as a retreat for emperors to escape the summer heat and is known for its beautiful landscapes and architecture.
Historical
3-4 hours
¥30 (Park and palace area), ¥60 (Boat ride included)
Hutongs
Hutongs are traditional narrow alleys and residential neighborhoods that offer a glimpse into old Beijing's way of life. Exploring hutongs provides an authentic experience of local culture and history.
Cultural
Half day to full day
Free to explore, but consider paying for guided tours or Rickshaw rides
798 Art Zone
The 798 Art Zone is a contemporary art district located in a former military factory. It's home to numerous art galleries, studios, and cultural events, making it a hub for Beijing's art scene.
Cultural
1-2 hours
Free to explore, but some galleries may charge admission
Must-Try Local Dishes
Peking Duck
A iconic dish of Beijing, Peking Duck is roasted to perfection and served with thin pancakes, hoisin sauce, and scallions. The crispy skin and tender meat make it a must-try for any visitor.
Main Course
Contains meat (duck), gluten (pancakes and sauce)
Zhajiangmian (Fried Sauce Noodles)
A popular Beijing street food, Zhajiangmian consists of hand-pulled noodles topped with a rich, savory sauce made from fermented soybean paste and minced pork. It's often served with cucumber and bean sprouts.
Main Course
Contains meat (pork), gluten (noodles and sauce)
Jianbing (Savory Crepes)
A popular Beijing street food, Jianbing is a savory crepe made with a batter of wheat and mung bean flour, filled with egg, scallions, and hoisin sauce. It's crispy, delicious, and perfect for a quick breakfast on the go.
Breakfast
Contains eggs, gluten (batter and sauce)
Baozi (Steamed Buns)
Baozi are steamed buns filled with various ingredients, such as pork, beef, or vegetables. They are a popular street food and can be found in many markets and food stalls throughout Beijing.
Snack
Can be vegetarian or contain meat, depending on the filling; contains gluten (bun)
Popular Activities
Hiking the Great Wall
Rock climbing in the Huairou District
Mountain biking in the outskirts of Beijing
Boat rides on Kunming Lake at the Summer Palace
Tea ceremonies at traditional teahouses
Gardens and parks at the Temple of Heaven and Beihai Park
Exploring the Forbidden City and other imperial palaces
Visiting temples and religious sites
Best Time to Visit
September to October, April to May
These months offer the most pleasant weather with clear skies and comfortable temperatures, making it ideal for sightseeing. The city is vibrant with cultural festivals and outdoor activities.
15-25°C (59-77°F)
59-77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Mandarin Chinese
- Widely spoken: English (in tourist areas and by younger generations)
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere
Currency
Chinese Yuan (CNY)
Time Zone
GMT+8 (China Standard Time)
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution in crowded areas and tourist spots
Beijing is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates and a strong police presence. However, petty crimes such as pickpocketing and scams can occur, especially in crowded areas and tourist spots. Exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings, particularly at night and in less touristy areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious when using taxis, and insist on using the meter or agreeing on a price before starting the journey
- • Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings in crowded areas and tourist spots
- • Be wary of strangers offering services or attractions at inflated prices, and only use licensed and reputable tour guides and operators
Getting there
By air
- Beijing Capital International Airport • 32 km (20 miles) northeast of city center
- Beijing Daxing International Airport • 46 km (29 miles) south of city center
By train
Beijing Railway Station, Beijing West Railway Station
By bus
Beijing Sihui Bus Station, Beijing Liuliqiao Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The Beijing Subway is efficient, affordable, and widely used. It's the best way to navigate the city, especially during peak hours.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Didi Chuxing, Tencent Taxi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Dongcheng
Xicheng
Chaoyang
Haidian
Shijingshan
Day trips
The Great Wall at Mutianyu
70 km (43 miles) northeast of Beijing • Full day
The Great Wall at Mutianyu is a less crowded and more scenic section of the Great Wall, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. It's a popular day trip from Beijing for those looking to experience the Great Wall without the large crowds.
The Great Wall at Jinshanling
130 km (81 miles) northeast of Beijing • Full day
The Great Wall at Jinshanling is a remote and less restored section of the Great Wall, offering a more authentic and adventurous experience. It's a popular day trip for those looking to explore the Great Wall's wild and rugged beauty.
The Great Wall at Simatai
120 km (75 miles) northeast of Beijing • Full day
The Great Wall at Simatai is a unique and well-preserved section of the Great Wall, known for its dramatic and picturesque landscape. It's a popular day trip for those looking to experience the Great Wall's beauty and history in a more intimate setting.
Festivals
Chinese New Year (Spring Festival) • January or February (varies by lunar calendar)
Lantern Festival • 15th day of the first lunar month (varies by year)
Qingming Festival (Tomb-Sweeping Day) • April 4th or 5th (varies by solar calendar)
Pro tips
- Use the official Beijing Subway app for route planning and real-time updates
- Carry a VPN to access restricted apps and websites, such as Google, Facebook, and Instagram
- Learn a few basic Mandarin phrases to enhance your experience and interact with locals
- Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the city's many attractions and neighborhoods
- Try local snacks and street food for an authentic and delicious culinary experience
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
