MY TRAVEL INFO: THE FORBIDDEN CITY, BEIJING, CHINA

FORBIDDEN CITY (2001)

FORBIDDEN CITY (2016)

The Forbidden City (known in Chinese as the Palace Museum, or Gugong) is one of the world's most significant historical and architectural landmarks.It was a key tourist destination in Beijing, China. 

Here is a brief overview of its history, significance, and architecture:

Historical Significance:

• Imperial Center: It served as the imperial palace and political center of China for over 500 years, from the Ming Dynasty (starting with the Yongle Emperor in 1420) to the end of the Qing Dynasty in 1912.
• Home to Emperors: It was the residence of 24 emperors (14 of the Ming Dynasty and 10 of the Qing Dynasty) and their households.
• The Name: The English name, "Forbidden City," is a translation of Zijin Cheng (Purple Forbidden City). "Purple" (Zi) refers to the Pole Star (believed to be the residence of the Celestial Emperor), making the earthly palace its counterpart. "Forbidden" (Jin) meant that ordinary people could not enter without special permission.
• Constructed from 1406 to 1420, the imperial palace and winter residence of the Emperor of China from Ming Dynasty to Qing Dynasty. 
• Modern Era: In 1925, it was converted into the Palace Museum and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987,. 

Architectural Highlights:

The Forbidden City is the largest and best-preserved imperial palace complex in the world, covering approximately 72 hectares (180 acres).

Design and Layout: The entire complex is a supreme example of traditional Chinese palatial architecture, designed in strict accordance with feng shui principle

• It is aligned perfectly on the main south-north axis of Beijing, symbolizing the Emperor's role as the "Son of Heaven" at the center of the world.
• The complex is divided into two main parts: the Outer Court and the Inner Court.

The Outer Court (Southern Section): Used for state affairs and grand ceremonies.

• The Three Great Halls: The Hall of Supreme Harmony (Taihedian), Hall of Central Harmony, and Hall of Preserving Harmony. The Hall of Supreme Harmony is the most important and largest structure, where coronations and imperial weddings took place.

The Inner Court (Northern Section): Served as the private residential area for the Emperor, Empress, and concubines.

• Includes the Palace of Heavenly Purity and the Palace of Earthly Tranquility.

Key Features:

• Surrounded by a 10-meter-high wall and a 52-meter-wide moat for defense.
• The architecture features a dominant color scheme of yellow (for the glazed roof tiles, symbolizing imperial power), red (for the walls and columns, symbolizing good fortune), and white marble bases.
• It is recognized as the world's largest collection of preserved ancient wooden structures.

Visiting the Forbidden City

• Location: Located in the center of Beijing, just north of Tiananmen Square.
• Entry/Exit: Visitors typically enter through the Meridian Gate (Wumen) in the south and exit through the Gate of Divine Prowess (Shenwumen) in the north.
• Tickets: Tickets must be booked in advance online as there is a daily visitor limit (e.g., 80,000). You will need your passport for booking and entry.

Location for famous movie includes:

• The Last Emperor in the year 1987 - the first Western film granted permission to do so. 
• Shanghai Noon in the year 2000 - Starring Jackie Chan and Owen Wilson .
• Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon (2000) : Starring Chow Yun Fat, Michelle Yeoh, Zhang Ziyi and Chang Chen. 
• The Amazing Race (2001) 

Reference:

1. Wikipedia : Forbidden City

Compiled by:

Hj Zulheimy Maamor

Lembah Keramat, K.L

16/12/2025: 1.10 a.m