The Forbidden City
Highlights
- You will understand why the Forbidden City was designed this way, not just see the buildings.
- You will hear stories that connect emperors, rituals, families, and daily life.
- You will move through the palace with a clear route and less wasted time.
- Flexible starting time: 08:30 AM / 10:30 AM / 01:30 PM
Your Journey
Step back in time to the Ming and Qing dynasties. This is not a rushed photo-op tour; it is a deep dive into the architecture, rituals, and daily lives of the emperors and those who served them.
Meet your host
Meet your host near the palace and get a brief introduction to the central axis of Beijing.
Enter through Meridian Gate
Decode the architectural significance of the front courtyards and the sheer scale of imperial power.
Explore the Inner Court
Move into the residential areas to hear human stories of concubines, eunuchs, and the last emperors.
Quiet Corners & Exit
Visit the lesser-known gardens and exit through the North Gate with suggestions for lunch.
Logistics
Meeting Point
East Gate of Forbidden City (Donghuamen)
Our staff member will confirm the meeting time and location with you on the day before your visit by 22:00 (Beijing time) at the latest.
Included
- ✓ Expert English-speaking storyteller
- ✓ Fast-track entry tickets to Forbidden City
- ✓ Wireless audio headsets for clear listening
Not Included
- ✗ Transportation to/from the meeting point
- ✗ Meals and drinks
- ✗ Gratuities (optional)
Important Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need my passport?
Yes, absolutely. The Forbidden City requires the original physical passport for entry.
What happens if tickets are sold out?
We book tickets as soon as they are released (7 days in advance). We will do our best to get the tickets for you even if you book the tour with us at the last minute.
Are there restrooms inside?
Yes, there are several clean public restrooms throughout the complex.
How to Join the Tour
- Our staff member will confirm the meeting time and location with you via phone, WeChat or WhatsApp on the day before your visit by 22:00 (Beijing time) at the latest. Please ensure that your phone is available to be reached.
- Please bring your original passport (or the valid ID used for booking) to meet your tour guide.
- Please check your messages the day before your tour for exact meeting details. Your guide will be waiting for you there.
Cancellation Policy
Before 12:00 PM, 1 day before the date of use
From 12:00 PM, 1 day before the date of use
If a discount is applied, the cancellation fee will be calculated based on the original price before the discount and will not exceed the amount paid. Partial refunds are not available.
Product Info
Notice to Visitors
Mainland Chinese citizens can only purchase tickets with a mainland Chinese ID card 7 days before and must present it for admission. Residents of Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan can only purchase tickets 7 days in advance using a Mainland Travel Permit. Passports cannot be used to book tickets. Other nationalities can book with a passport or PRC Foreign Permanent Resident ID Card.
Kid's Meal Option Details
The Palace Museum's preferential policies do not apply to foreign children. If your child is a foreign national with a passport, please book them as an adult.
