### Beijing Palace Museum Travel Guide
#### I. Introduction
The Palace Museum, also known as the Forbidden City, was the imperial palace of the Ming and Qing dynasties in China. Located in the heart of Beijing, its construction began in 1406, the fourth year of the Yongle reign of the Ming Dynasty, and took 14 years to complete. It is the largest and best-preserved ancient wooden structure complex in the world. It is not only a cultural treasure of China but also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
II. Opening Hours
- **Peak Season (April 1st - October 31st):** 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM, ticket sales stop at 4:10 PM, last admission at 4:30 PM.
- **Off-Season (November 1st - March 31st):** 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM, ticket sales stop at 3:40 PM, last admission at 4:00 PM.
- **Closed every Monday** (except statutory holidays).
III. Ticket Information
- **Adult Ticket**: 60 RMB (peak season), 40 RMB (off-season).
- **Student Ticket**: 20 RMB (with valid student ID).
- **Senior Ticket**: 30 yuan (over 60 with valid ID).
- **Free Policy**: Children under 1.2 meters in height, persons with disabilities, and active military personnel are free with valid ID.
**It is recommended to book tickets in advance on the official website or WeChat official account to avoid long lines. **
IV. Tour Routes
The Forbidden City covers a vast area, so it is recommended to plan your route in advance. The following is a classic tour route:
1. **Wu Men** (Entrance): The main entrance to the Forbidden City.
2. **Hall of Supreme Harmony**: The core building of the Forbidden City, where the emperor held grand ceremonies.
3. **Hall of Central Harmony**: Where the emperor rested before grand ceremonies.
4. **Baohedian Hall**: Where the emperor held banquets and held palace examinations.
5. **Qianqing Palace**: The emperor's bedroom, the residence of the Ming and Qing emperors.
6. **Jiaotai Hall**: Where the empress held ceremonies.
7. **Kunning Palace**: The empress's bedroom.
8. **Imperial Garden**: The Forbidden City's rear garden, offering beautiful scenery and perfect for resting and taking photos.
9. **Shenwu Gate** (Exit): The Forbidden City's north gate, exit from here after your tour.
V. Notes
1. **Dress comfortably**: The Forbidden City is large, so comfortable shoes are recommended.
2.**Sunscreen and Cold Protection**: Please protect yourself from the sun in summer and keep warm in winter.
3.**Bring Your ID**: You must present your ID card to purchase tickets and enter the Forbidden City.
4.**No Smoking**: Smoking is strictly prohibited inside the Forbidden City.
5.**Protect Cultural Relics**: Please do not touch cultural relics or ancient buildings.
6.**Keep Quiet**: Please remain quiet and respect other visitors during your visit.
VI. Transportation
-**Subway**: Take Metro Line 1 to Tiananmen East Station or Tiananmen West Station, and walk to the Forbidden City.
-**Bus**: Take Bus No. 1, 2, 52, 59, etc. to Tiananmen East Station or Tiananmen West Station, and walk to the Forbidden City.
- **Self-driving**: Parking is limited around the Forbidden City, so public transportation is recommended.
VII. Nearby Attractions
- **Tiananmen Square**: The world's largest city square, located south of the Forbidden City.
- **Jingshan Park**: Located north of the Forbidden City, offering a panoramic view of the Forbidden City.
- **Beihai Park**: Located northwest of the Forbidden City, it is one of China's oldest existing imperial gardens.
VIII. Dining Recommendations
- **Forbidden City Icehouse Restaurant**: Located inside the Forbidden City, offering simple Chinese meals and drinks.
- **Wangfujing Snack Street**: Not far from the Forbidden City, it features a variety of Beijing snacks.
IX. Shopping Recommendations
- **Forbidden City Cultural and Creative Store**: Located inside the Forbidden City, it sells a variety of Forbidden City-themed cultural and creative products.
- **Wangfujing Street**: A famous commercial street in Beijing, offering a wide variety of shopping options.
X. Summary
The Forbidden City in Beijing is a symbol of Chinese history and culture. Visiting it not only allows you to experience the splendor of ancient imperial power but also provides a deeper understanding of Chinese history and culture. I hope this guide helps you better plan your visit to the Forbidden City. I wish you a pleasant trip!
**Warm Tip**: The Forbidden City is crowded with tourists, so it is recommended to avoid holidays and weekends and visit on weekdays for a better experience.
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