The Forbidden City in Beijing offers visitors a unique chance to step into China’s imperial past. With an entry ticket priced at $14.68, travelers can explore the grand palace complex that housed 24 emperors over centuries. The ticket grants access to the main palace and museum, allowing guests to enjoy the rich history and grandeur of this UNESCO World Heritage site. While audio tours are available for an additional fee, the flexible itinerary and convenient transportation services ensure a seamless experience. With so much to uncover, it’s no wonder the Forbidden City continues to captivate both domestic and international travelers.
Good To Know
- The Forbidden City entry ticket costs $14.68 per person, with full refund available for cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.
- The Forbidden City tour options include access to the main palace, museum, Summer Palace, Mutianyu Great Wall, and Temple of Heaven.
- Visitors can choose between morning and afternoon tickets and customize their experience with guided or self-guided tours.
- A passport is required for admission to the Forbidden City, and an optional audio tour is available for an additional fee.
- The Forbidden City is a historically significant site that served as the main palace of Imperial China for over five centuries.
It's also worth checking out some other tours and experiences nearby.
Ticket Information and Pricing
The entry ticket to the Forbidden City costs $14.68 per person.
It’s possible to cancel reservations up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
The experience lasts between 3 to 9 hours, and visitors can choose between morning or afternoon tickets.
The ticket provides access to the main palace and museum, as well as optional tours of the Summer Palace, Mutianyu Great Wall, and Temple of Heaven.
Audio tours are available for an additional 40 yuan.
Visitors can arrange hotel pickup and drop-off when booking their tickets.
Experience and Itinerary
Visitors can enjoy the grand imperial history of the Forbidden City, the main palace of Imperial China for five centuries.
Built between 1406 and 1420 during the Ming Dynasty, the Forbidden City was home to 24 emperors.
Guided or self-guided tours allow travelers to discover its rich past, with options to explore the Forbidden City (2 hours), Summer Palace (2 hours), Mutianyu Great Wall (2 hours), and Temple of Heaven (2 hours).
Starting locations include Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City itself, providing flexibility in planning the day’s activities.
Visitor Access and Amenities
To enter the Forbidden City, one must use their passport for admission.
Visitors can also opt for an audio tour, available for an additional 40 yuan. This allows guests to explore the imperial palace at their own pace, learning about its rich history through the recorded commentary.
Plus, hotel pickup and drop-off services are available if selected, providing a convenient and hassle-free experience.
With these visitor access and amenity options, guests can fully enjoy the grandeur and legacy of the Forbidden City during their visit.
Customer Reviews and Ratings
Customers have provided an overall rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars for the Forbidden City entry ticket based on 114 reviews. According to the reviews, the value for money was rated 4 out of 5, the service was 5 out of 5, and the organization was also 5 out of 5. Travelers have highlighted the easy reservation process, convenient entry with audio tour option, and successful booking even when sold out elsewhere.
| Metric | Rating |
|---|---|
| Value | 4/5 |
| Service | 5/5 |
| Organization | 5/5 |
The high ratings indicate a positive customer experience when visiting the Forbidden City.
Historical Significance
The Forbidden City is a representation of the grandeur of the Imperial Chinese court during the Ming and Qing dynasties.
For over five centuries, it served as the main palace of imperial China, housing 24 emperors. Its construction, which began in 1406 and was completed in 1420 during the Ming Dynasty, is a testament to the architectural prowess of the era.
Opened to the public in 1925, the Forbidden City now allows visitors to explore the lavish imperial life that once thrived within its walls.
Its historical significance as a symbol of China’s dynastic power and cultural heritage continues to draw travelers from around the world.
Reservation Process
Booking the Forbidden City entry ticket is a hassle-free process. Visitors can easily purchase tickets online or on-site, giving them the flexibility to choose between morning or afternoon timeslots. The ticket comes with a free cancellation policy, allowing travelers to make last-minute changes without penalties.
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The online reservation system is user-friendly, guiding visitors through the booking process with clear instructions.
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Tickets can be purchased directly from the Forbidden City website or through third-party tour providers, offering convenience and choice.
Upon arrival, guests can use their passports for quick and seamless entry, ensuring a smooth start to their imperial exploration.
Explore Imperial Life
Once visitors have secured their Forbidden City entry tickets, they can enjoy the grandeur and imperial splendor that defined China’s ruling dynasties for centuries.
The sprawling palace complex offers a unique glimpse into the lavish lives of the country’s former emperors. Guided tours lead visitors through the elaborate courtyards, ornate halls, and private quarters, providing insights into the intricacies of imperial governance and court rituals.
Whether exploring the iconic Gate of Supreme Harmony or the tranquil gardens, travelers are transported back in time, gaining a deeper appreciation for China’s rich cultural heritage.
The Forbidden City’s historical significance and meticulously preserved architecture make it an unparalleled window into the country’s imperial past.
Itinerary Flexibility
Visitors enjoy the flexibility to customize their Forbidden City experience, tailoring their itinerary to suit individual preferences and schedules.
Ticket options include morning or afternoon slots, allowing travelers to plan their day around the Forbidden City, Summer Palace, Mutianyu Great Wall, and Temple of Heaven.
Self-guided tours provide the freedom to explore at one’s own pace, while guided tours offer expert insights.
Plus, the option for hotel pickup and drop-off adds convenience, ensuring a seamless experience from start to finish.
With these flexible arrangements, visitors can create a personalized sightseeing plan that maximizes their time in this historic imperial complex.
Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we think you'll like.
- Private 4-Hour In Depth Walking Tour to the Forbidden City
- Mutianyu Great Wall Private Day Tour With English Driver
- Great Wall at Gubeikou and Jinshanling Private Sunset Tour
- Mutianyu Great Wall Private Layover Guided Tour
- Private Mutianyu Great Wall Day Tour From Beijing City/Airport
- Private Arrival Transfer: Beijing Airport (PEK or PKX) to Hotel
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Opening Hours of the Forbidden City?
The Forbidden City is open daily from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM. Visitors can explore the palace grounds and museum exhibitions during these hours, allowing them to enjoy the historical significance of this iconic imperial site.
Is There a Dress Code for Visiting the Forbidden City?
There’s no official dress code for visiting the Forbidden City. However, visitors are advised to wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and closed-toe shoes as the site covers a large area and involves extensive walking.
Are There Any Student or Senior Citizen Discounts Available?
Yes, there are discounted student and senior citizen tickets for the Forbidden City entry. Visitors aged 60 and above, as well as students with valid ID, can get reduced prices on admission.
Can I Bring Food and Drinks Inside the Forbidden City?
Visitors can bring food and drinks into the Forbidden City, but cannot consume them inside the historic buildings. There are designated picnic areas available for enjoying meals and snacks during the visit.
Are There Any Special Events or Festivals Held at the Forbidden City?
The Forbidden City hosts special cultural events and festivals throughout the year, such as traditional Chinese New Year celebrations and Lantern Festivals. Visitors can check the official website for upcoming schedules and plan their visits accordingly.
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The Sum Up
The Forbidden City entry ticket offers unparalleled access to China’s imperial past. Visitors can explore the grand palace complex, seeing the rich history and grandeur of the Ming and Qing dynasties. With flexible itineraries, convenient services, and the opportunity to discover the emperor’s daily life, this ticket provides a truly remarkable and unforgettable experience for those seeking to explore China’s cultural heritage.