Timed-entry systems, real-name tickets, which gate to use, and what to do when it shows “full”.
Do I need to book the Forbidden City in advance?+
Yes. Tickets are real-name, released seven days ahead at 20:00 Beijing time, and there are none at the gate. Passport number required. Closed Mondays.
Which Great Wall section should I visit?+
Mutianyu for most visitors — restored, scenic, cable car access, and a third of Badaling’s crowd. Jinshanling for hiking, Badaling only if time or mobility is limited.
How do I book Terracotta Army tickets?+
Through the official WeChat mini-program with your passport number, ¥120 including the internal shuttle. Book 2–3 days ahead in peak season.
Do I need a reservation for Tiananmen Square?+
Yes, a separate free reservation in advance, in addition to the Forbidden City ticket.
Is Zhangjiajie worth four days?+
Three days for the national park and one for Tianmen Mountain. The four-day ticket makes three days of park access the sensible minimum.
What is the best time to visit the Great Wall?+
The first cable car at 08:00, any season. In autumn the ridge lines are clearest; in winter it is empty and dramatic.
Are attractions closed on Mondays?+
Many museums are, including the Forbidden City and most national museums. Plan around it — Mondays are for parks, hutongs and markets.
Do I need my passport at attractions?+
Yes for anything real-name: the Forbidden City, Terracotta Army, major museums, and train stations. Carry it always.
Can I buy tickets at the gate?+
For most major sights now, no. Timed-entry and real-name systems mean online booking with a passport is mandatory.
What should I do if tickets show as sold out?+
Check again 48 and 24 hours before — quotas are released in stages. For trains, join the official waiting list. For attractions, early morning on the day sometimes releases cancellations.
Private, not packaged
Have a local handle the details.
Tell us your dates and what you actually want to see. A guide who lives there replies within 24 hours — with a plan and one clear total.