Forbidden City Tickets

Question

Good afternoon,

I'm visiting Beijing in 3 weeks. I'm aware it's possible to buy the tickets for the Forbidden City 7 days before the date of the visit, at 8 PM Beijing time. For example. If one plans to visit on 8 April, tickets will be available on 1 April at 8 PM (Beijing time).

However, I've read that some people did not manage to buy the tickets online. Can someone confirm if it's still possible for foreigners to buy the tickets on site on the day of the visit? If so, they can be bought only early morning or throughout the day?

Many thanks

Answer

The Forbidden City, also known as the Palace Museum, is one of Beijing’s most popular attractions, and ticketing has become increasingly strict to manage the large number of visitors. You are correct that tickets are released online 7 days in advance at 8 PM Beijing time, and this is often the best way to secure entry, especially during weekends and holiday periods.

Regarding on-site ticket purchases for foreigners:

Currently, foreigners can still buy tickets on-site, but availability is not guaranteed, especially during peak tourist periods. The Palace Museum limits the total number of daily visitors to about 80,000, so tickets can sell out quickly.
On-site tickets are generally available at the ticket counters near the main entrances. It is recommended to arrive early in the morning, as the museum opens at 8:30 AM. Tickets are often sold until the daily quota is reached, which can be a few hours after opening on busy days.
Some foreign visitors have reported difficulties buying tickets on-site because the online booking system prioritizes advance purchases, and the remaining tickets may be limited. Therefore, arriving very early is key if you plan to purchase tickets in person.

Additional tips for visiting the Forbidden City:

Consider using the official online booking system to secure tickets in advance. This is the most reliable way to guarantee entry on your desired date.
If you are unable to book online, plan to arrive at the ticket counters as soon as they open. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends or holidays.
Bring your passport, as it is required for ticket purchase and entry for foreigners.
Tickets are timed entry, so make sure you arrive within your allocated time window once the ticket is purchased.
For added convenience, some tour operators or hotels in Beijing can assist in booking tickets for foreigners, which may help avoid uncertainty.

In summary, while it is still possible for foreigners to buy tickets on-site for the Forbidden City, it carries the risk of limited availability. The safest approach is to book online exactly 7 days in advance at 8 PM Beijing time. If you choose to buy tickets on the day, arrive as early as possible at the ticket counters, ideally right when the museum opens, and have your passport ready for purchase and entry.

Forbidden City Tickets

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