Forbidden City tickets: the booking system, explained

The booking mechanics

1. 1
   Book on the official Palace Museum site or WeChat mini-program

   English interface available. Do not use resellers.

2. 2
   Tickets release 7 days ahead at 20:00 Beijing time

   They sell out in minutes on weekends and holidays.

3. 3
   Enter your passport number exactly

   It becomes your ticket; you scan the passport at the gate.

4. 4
   Free entry for under-18s, but still requires a booking

   And still requires the passport.

5. 5
   Closed Mondays

   Except public holidays. This catches people out.

Which gate

One-way flow: enter through the Meridian Gate (south), exit through the Gate of Divine Prowess (north). There is no re-entry and no exit back through the south. Your car should drop you at the south and collect you at the north — a detail that causes a lot of confusion at the end of a hot afternoon.

The route that beats the crowd

• Arrive at 08:30 opening. The first hour is the only quiet hour.
• Walk straight up the central axis to the Hall of Supreme Harmony, then immediately turn right into the eastern palaces.
• The Treasure Gallery and Clock Gallery cost extra (¥10 each) and are worth it.
• The Imperial Garden at the north end is where everyone converges; go early or skip.
• Exit north and climb Jingshan Park (¥2) for the view over the golden roofs. This is the shot.

What most people miss

The Forbidden City is 980 buildings and most visitors see eight. The eastern and western palace courtyards — where consorts lived — are almost empty and far more atmospheric than the ceremonial halls. Give the central axis 90 minutes and the side courtyards two hours.

Frequently asked