[2025 Beijing Attraction] Travel Guide for Imperial Garden (Updated Jul)

🫕 Day 1 Begin at the Forbidden City (故宫) — a vast palace complex that once housed emperors for nearly 500 years. As you walk from the Meridian Gate to the Imperial Garden, you’ll pass through grand ceremonial halls, hidden courtyards, and ancient relics that bring dynastic China to life. Afterward, exit through the northern gate and climb Jingshan Park (景山公园). The hill here was made from earth dug for the palace moat, and from its top, you get an unmatched panoramic view of the entire Forbidden City — especially stunning at sunset. 🏺 Day 2 Take a day trip to Badaling Great Wall (八达岭长城) — one of the most iconic and well-preserved sections of the Great Wall. Though it’s a popular spot, it's also very accessible and well-restored, with dramatic mountain scenery and sturdy stone walkways that snake across the ridges. Wear good shoes, as even with the cable car, some climbing is required. If you're early and have a driver or join a tour, you could also stop at the nearby Ming Tombs (明十三陵) or the Sacred Way (神道) — a road flanked by stone guardian statues that leads to the imperial mausoleums. 🫖 Day 3 In the morning, explore Lama Temple (雍和宫) — Beijing’s most famous Tibetan Buddhist temple. Marvel at the intricate architecture and the giant 18-meter Maitreya Buddha carved from a single piece of sandalwood. Just a short walk away is the Confucius Temple (孔庙) and Imperial College (国子监) — both calm, scholarly spaces shaded by ancient cypress trees and lined with stone stelae. These sites celebrate Confucian learning and imperial education, and the tranquil courtyards offer a nice break from the bustle. After lunch, head to Nanluoguxiang (南锣鼓巷) — a lively hutong street known for its mix of old Beijing style and youthful creativity. You’ll find souvenir shops, cafes, traditional snacks, and art everywhere. Qianmen Street (前门大街) and Dazhalan (大栅栏). These pedestrian avenues have been revitalized to reflect old Beijing, featuring traditional architecture, time-honored brands, and local snacks. You’ll find tea shops, silk stores, and snack stalls alongside stylish boutiques. It’s also a great spot for your first dinner in the city — try the famous Peking duck at Quanjude (全聚德) or sijiminfu (四季民福) (Will continue in the next post_ !)

Amazing Place

don’t forget to look up when traveling — you never know what you might see :) do you see a dragon looking back at you from the ceiling of this pavilion in the imperial garden of the forbidden palace museum? such beautiful architecture here! it was such a hot day in beijing today, but we got to enjoy some shade under the pavilion. I wish I had more time to enjoy the garden!

Visited Imperial palace, garden and a wonderful place to visit

I visited the Forbidden City Museum in Beijing during the May holidays. As expected during Golden Week, there was a long queue at the entrance gate, and the interior was extremely crowded! However, once inside, I was deeply impressed by the vast grounds and the overwhelming scale of history. The contrast between the red walls and golden roofs is absolutely stunning for photos. Highly recommended spots include the main buildings along the central axis (Hall of Supreme Harmony, Hall of Central Harmony, and Hall of Preserving Harmony) and the Imperial Garden located at the back. Especially in the afternoon light, the buildings exude an even more majestic atmosphere. ⚠️ Some tips to keep in mind: - On holidays, visiting early in the morning or just before closing time tends to be less crowded (though still busy). - Bring water and sun protection. - Advance ticket reservations are mandatory (foreign visitors can book via the official website, while Chinese visitors can use WeChat). The grandeur of this UNESCO World Heritage site is so breathtaking that it makes you forget the crowds! Next time, I’d love to visit during the off-season for a more leisurely experience. ✨

#Forbidden City #Imperial City Photography #Historical Sedimentation #Beijing #Cultural Check-in ◾ Best time to shoot: morning light and dusk ▸ 7:30-8:30 in the morning (first wave of admission when the door opens, avoid the crowds and capture the silence of the morning mist) ▸ 1 hour before sunset (the setting sun penetrates the eaves, the golden tiles are shining, and the solemn feeling is full) ◾ 5 majestic camera positions to capture the emperor’s aura 1️⃣ The steps of the Hall of Supreme Harmony (shoot the stairs from above to highlight the sense of authority, and bring in the cloud dragon relief in the composition) 2️⃣ The main gate of the Palace of Heavenly Purity (symmetrical composition, red gate and golden nails, showing the majesty of the deep palace) 3️⃣ Wumen Tower (wide-angle shot to highlight the magnificent and oppressive feeling of the building) 4️⃣ Red Wall Alley (the long corridor on the west side of Cining Palace, where light and shadow cut out the loneliness of history) 5️⃣ Silhouette of the corner tower (photographed after snow in winter, in black and white, as quiet as an ink painting) ◾ Post-production color grading: movie-level gloomy tones ▹ Tone: Reduce saturation (red walls turn dark red, the sky turns blue-gray) ▹ Contrast: +10 (strengthens architectural lines) ▹ Vignette: slightly added (focus on the subject and create a sense of historical depth) "The majesty of the Forbidden City lies not in its noise but in its six hundred years of silence." #BeijingIn-depthTour #ArchitecturalAesthetics #HistoricalPhotography #BeijingFeatures #BeijingTravel #AprilGoodPlaces2025

#HawaiiAirlineEvent While walking on the road to the Forbidden City, I constantly recalled the years that had passed and the stories hidden within it. The road from Tiananmen Square to the Forbidden City was longer than I thought, and as I walked along the road, I began to realize the greatness of the Forbidden City more and more. The stone patterns carved on the floor and the wonderful scenery created by the old buildings made me realize that this place is not just a tourist attraction, but living history. Especially when the red walls and golden roofs of the Forbidden City came into view, I was overwhelmed by their size and beauty and took a moment to catch my breath. As I walked along the wall, I felt as if I was walking with the emperors of the past. When I stood in front of the gate, I realized once again how large and magnificent the gate was, and at that moment, I felt like I had stepped into history. It was not just passing through the gate of a tourist attraction, but experiencing the countless history and stories contained within it. The road to the Forbidden City was not simply a road to a destination, but a special journey in itself. Location: Entrance of the Forbidden City, Beijing, China

#HawaiiAirlineEvent While walking towards the Forbidden City, I felt like I was going deep into history just by walking. As I passed Tiananmen, the huge walls of the Forbidden City gradually came closer, and I could feel the ancient atmosphere at every moment. There were tourists among the people passing by, but their every step seemed to contain respect for this historical place. At first, the Forbidden City with its red walls and golden roofs seemed so big that I couldn't capture it all. As I got closer, I was amazed by its size, and I could imagine how many people must have passed through here historically. As I approached the gate, I became more curious about what kind of history was hidden inside, and I could immediately realize why this place is considered one of the most important historical sites in the world. I was just walking down the street, but the emotions I felt on the street were so deep that words could not express them. Location: Forbidden City Main Gate, Beijing, China

#HawaiiAirlineEvent While walking towards the Forbidden City, I felt like I was going deep into history just by walking. As I passed Tiananmen, the huge walls of the Forbidden City gradually came closer, and I could feel the ancient atmosphere at every moment. There were tourists among the people passing by, but their every step seemed to contain respect for this historical place. At first, the Forbidden City with its red walls and golden roofs seemed so big that I couldn't capture it all. As I got closer, I was amazed by its size, and I could imagine how many people must have passed through here historically. As I approached the gate, I became more curious about what kind of history was hidden inside, and I could immediately realize why this place is considered one of the most important historical sites in the world. I was just walking down the street, but the emotions I felt on the street were so deep that words could not express them. Location: Forbidden City Main Gate, Beijing, China

#HawaiiAirlineEvent The road to the Forbidden City was like a trip back in time. The overwhelming size and grandeur felt as I passed through Tiananmen Square left a strong impression on me. As I walked along the road, I couldn’t help but notice the red walls and golden roofs of the Forbidden City from afar, like a work of art. The expressions of the people passing by seemed to share the historical scene, and I felt like I was melting into it. When I reached the gate, I was overwhelmed by its size and grandeur. The size of the Forbidden City seen right in front of me was so much bigger than I could imagine that I couldn’t help but be amazed, and as I walked along the road, I felt like I had briefly gone back in time. The experience of walking through a historical site was more than just seeing the place, it gave me the feeling of hearing the many stories contained within it. Walking along this road allowed me to feel a deeper sense of awe for the Forbidden City, and I could truly understand why it is considered a world heritage site. Location: Forbidden City Entrance, Beijing, China

#HawaiiAirlineEvent As I walked toward the Forbidden City, the noise of the city gradually faded away and only the historical scenery remained. The time I spent walking from Tiananmen Square to the Forbidden City entrance in front of me was not just a simple movement, but a ceremony to enter the world of the emperor. In particular, each stone on the floor felt like it had aged, and the ancient buildings and flags spread out on both sides made the atmosphere even stronger. When I stood in front of the gate, I was speechless at the grandeur created by the huge red gate and gold decorations, and I naturally imagined the emperors and ministers who had passed through this gate in the past. Just walking was an experience that made my heart heavy, and even before entering the Forbidden City, I could already feel overwhelmed by its size and history. Location: In front of the main gate of the Forbidden City (after passing through Tiananmen), Beijing, China

#AprilGoodDestinations2025 Travel through time and space to explore the Imperial Garden of the Forbidden City | The royal secrets under the red walls and golden tiles🌸 Family members! The Imperial Garden of the Forbidden City, a must-visit when visiting Beijing, hides the romance and elegance of the royal families of the Ming and Qing dynasties. It is not only the first of the three major gardens of the Forbidden City, but also a "royal emerald" that has spanned 600 years! Take this super detailed guide and immerse yourself in the beauty of ancient style~ Traffic Guide 🚇 • Subway: the most convenient! Take Metro Line 1 to Tiananmen East Station, Exit C, walk through Tiananmen Square and Meridian Gate to enter the park; or take Metro Line 2 to Qianmen Station, Exit B, and walk about 15 minutes. • Bus: Take bus No. 1, No. 52 or other routes to Tiananmen East Station. Just follow the crowd after getting off. • Note: There is no parking lot in the Forbidden City. Self-driving parties are advised to park their cars in nearby shopping malls to avoid trouble! Must-visit attractions📸 • Qin'an Hall: the center of the Imperial Garden! The mysterious temple dedicated to Xuantian God has ancient and vigorous cypresses in front of the temple and blue glazed tiles that look super photogenic in the sun! 📷 • Duixiu Mountain: the highest point in the park! The Royal View Pavilion on the top of the mountain is a great location to overlook the entire garden, with red walls, golden tiles and green trees, and an ancient style blockbuster can be easily captured~🌳 • Jiangxuexuan: Kangxi’s favorite flower-viewing spot! The 5 crabapple trees in front of the temple are in full bloom, like snowfall. Now it is a cultural and creative coffee shop. It is very pleasant to drink a cup of "Forbidden City Special" ☕ • Wanchun Pavilion & Qianqiu Pavilion: The symmetrical twin pavilions are breathtakingly beautiful! The yellow tiles, double eaves, and colorful carvings make it look like something out of an ancient painting from every angle. Visiting Tips💡 • Tickets: Make a reservation at the “National Palace Museum” 7 days in advance! 60 yuan/person in peak season, half price for students, no tickets sold on site! 🎫 • Opening hours: 8:30-17:00 (admission stops at 16:10). It is recommended to enter the park in the morning when there are fewer people and the lighting is better! • Photography tips: Wear light-colored ancient-style clothing for better photos! Using flower windows, red walls, and Taihu stones as the foreground, any photo you take will be a blockbuster~ • Guide to avoid pitfalls: The Imperial Garden is in the second half of the Forbidden City. It is recommended to visit the central axis first, otherwise you may easily break your legs! 🚶♀️ Wandering around the Imperial Garden, you’ll see hundreds of years old bluestone slabs under your feet and carved beams and painted buildings above your head. Every ancient tree is telling a story of history. Whether you’re taking photos or just meditating, this place will take you back to the Forbidden City in an instant! Next time you come to the Forbidden City, don’t miss this "Royal Secret Realm"~🌟

I visited the heart of Beijing — Tiananmen Square and the legendary Forbidden City. Tiananmen Square is truly impressive with its enormous open space, surrounded by some of the most important monuments of Chinese history and culture. The atmosphere feels incredibly grand and symbolic — you can really sense the weight of history here. The Forbidden City is a whole different experience. Walking through its ancient palaces and gardens, you can almost imagine the lives of emperors and their courts. The scale, the attention to detail, the golden rooftops and red walls — everything leaves a deep impression. If you want to explore the main halls properly, you’ll need at least 3–4 hours, but if you want to take your time and really dive into the history, plan for a full day. I highly recommend getting an audio guide or joining a tour — it makes the visit much more meaningful.

🍎Jingren Palace: Long-haired cats represented by "Aobai" often appear here. They are docile and suitable for close observation. 🍑Imperial Garden: The vegetation is dense, and cats like to bask in the sun or hide here, especially near the rockery and corridor. 😺Jianting Square: There are fewer people, and cats are often seen here before closing in the evening. Viewing time 😸There are fewer visitors in the early morning when the museum opens or in the evening before closing, so cats are more likely to show up to look for food or take a walk. 😻Most of the cats in the Forbidden City are free-range, and some of them have aloof personalities. Do not forcefully pet or chase them. 😺Feeding is prohibited: cat food is managed by staff, and bringing your own food may affect your health. -😺Historical origin: Most of the cats in the Forbidden City are descendants of the imperial cats of the Ming and Qing dynasties. In the Ming Dynasty, a "cat room" was set up for management. Emperors of the Qing Dynasty, such as Qianlong and Cixi, were cat lovers. Their duties are symbolized by being called cat security guards. They patrol at night to prevent rats and guard wooden buildings and cultural relics. Dean Shan Jixiang praised them as "living cultural relics." 😺Cultural and creative peripherals: The Palace Museum Taobao store launches Royal Cat themed dolls. You can take the "Royal Cat" home.

#discoverchina Nestled at the northern end of the Forbidden City, the Imperial Garden is a serene contrast to the grandeur of the palace halls. Designed for royal leisure, this classical Chinese garden features ancient cypress trees, intricate pavilions, and symbolic rock formations. The harmonious layout blends nature and architecture, offering a glimpse into the tranquil moments of the emperors’ lives. It’s the perfect finale to a Palace Museum visit—peaceful, elegant, and deeply rooted in tradition. #thingstodo #citydaytours #familytravel #myitinerary

#discoverchina The Imperial Gardens of China are among the most magnificent expressions of traditional Chinese horticulture and landscape design. These gardens, primarily constructed for the enjoyment of emperors and the imperial family, reflect the profound philosophical and aesthetic principles of Chinese culture, integrating nature, architecture, and symbolism into harmonious compositions. Imperial gardens date back to ancient dynasties, with their earliest forms appearing as royal hunting parks during the Zhou Dynasty (11th century BC). By the Qin and Han dynasties, these spaces evolved into refined retreats for imperial leisure. However, their golden age arrived during the Ming (1368–1644) and Qing (1644–1912) dynasties, when emperors expanded and embellished gardens to symbolize their divine authority. One of the most famous examples is the Imperial Garden (御花园) within the Forbidden City, designed for the emperor's personal relaxation. Meanwhile, the Summer Palace and the Old Summer Palace (Yuanmingyuan) represented grander imperial estates, blending natural scenery with poetic architecture. Key Features of Imperial Gardens (A) Harmonious Layout Unlike Western geometric gardens, Chinese imperial gardens follow asymmetrical, naturalistic designs, mimicking the beauty of untouched landscapes. Key characteristics include: Artificial hills and ponds – Symbolize mythical mountains and rivers. Winding pathways – Encourage contemplative walks. Strategic vistas – Frame picturesque views, often incorporating distant natural scenery. (B) Architectural Elements Imperial gardens feature pavilions, bridges, and corridors, designed with intricate wooden structures and decorated with symbolic motifs such as dragons and phoenixes. Key structures include: Halls for meditation and leisure (e.g., the Hall of Imperial Peace in the Forbidden City’s garden). Moon gates and zigzag bridges to slow movement and enhance contemplation. (C) Symbolic Plants and Colors Pine, bamboo, and plum blossoms represent resilience and nobility. Lotus ponds symbolize purity and enlightenment. Dominant colors: Red (happiness, prosperity) and yellow (imperial authority). Chinese imperial gardens embody Daoist and Confucian ideals—balancing human intervention with nature's spontaneity. They serve as: -A microcosm of the universe, reflecting the emperor’s role as the mediator between heaven and earth. -Spiritual retreats, offering solitude and philosophical reflection. -Political statements, showcasing imperial power through their scale and sophistication. Notable Imperial Gardens Among the finest examples are: The Forbidden City’s Imperial Garden (御花园) – A serene, compact garden with ancient cypress trees and ornate pavilions. Summer Palace (颐和园) – A vast UNESCO-listed garden incorporating Kunming Lake and Longevity Hill, famed for its Marble Boat and Long Corridor. Chengde Mountain Resort (避暑山庄) – A Qing Dynasty retreat blending Han, Tibetan, and Mongolian architectural styles. Today, these gardens are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, attracting millions of visitors yearly. They remain treasured not just for their beauty but for their enduring cultural legacy—teaching the world about balance, artistry, and imperial grandeur. The Imperial Gardens of China are living museums, where every rock, pond, and tree tells a story of imperial luxury, philosophical depth, and artistic mastery. They stand as timeless reminders of China’s majestic past and its profound connection to nature.

#discoverchina Tucked behind the Forbidden City’s stern halls, this walled Eden breathes with quiet majesty. I lingered beneath 400-year-old scholar pines, their gnarled branches pruned to frame the sky like living ink paintings. Delicate pebble mosaics crunched underfoot—hidden bats and flowers woven into the paths by long-gone artisans. Near the Pavilion of Floating Jade. I caught the scent of ancient cypress mixing with blooming tree peonies, just as it might have for Emperor Yongle. The garden’s genius lies in its controlled wildness—every rock from Lake Tai, every twisted juniper placed to compose perfect harmony. When afternoon light filtered through the Qingyun Pavilion’s lattice, casting dragon-shaped shadows on weathered bricks, time seemed to pause. This isn’t just a garden—it’s a philosopher’s retreat, where stone, water and wood whisper secrets of balance.

Tokyo has a way of blending tradition and modernity like no other city. From waking up to a glimpse of Mount Fuji in the distance, to strolling through the serene Imperial Gardens, every moment feels cinematic. 🌸 📍 Senso-ji Temple – Step into Tokyo’s spiritual heart. With incense in the air and the iconic Kaminarimon gate welcoming you, this ancient temple offers a powerful contrast to the city's neon energy. 🛕 📍 Odaiba – This futuristic island offers unbeatable skyline views, seaside walks, and a giant Gundam that feels straight out of an anime. 📍 Imperial Garden – A peaceful oasis in the heart of the city, where centuries-old trees and moats reflect Japan’s imperial history. 📍 Tokyo Skytree – Touch the clouds at one of the tallest towers in the world. Sunset from the top? Unreal. 🌇 📍 Grand Hyatt Tokyo – The perfect luxury base to recharge after a day of exploring, with sleek design and top-tier hospitality. (TIP: The film Lost in Translation was shot here) 🏔 Mount Fuji – A clear-day blessing. Spotting it from the city always feels like a small miracle. From ancient temples to futuristic towers, this trip captured every shade of Tokyo. Would you start your day with a shrine visit or end it in the clouds?👇✨ #tokyo #sensoji #mountfuji #skytree #imperialgarden #odaiba #grandhyatttokyo #japantravel #filmphotography #travel #japan #tokyo #fuji #odaiba #hyatt

#travelinginchina **Things to Do:** Explore the serene Imperial Garden, a beautiful oasis within the larger Forbidden City complex. Wander through meticulously landscaped pathways, admire the intricate pavilions, and enjoy the serene ponds and ancient trees that provide a peaceful escape from the bustling city. **Tips:** Visit in the early morning or late afternoon for a quieter experience and softer lighting for photography. Take your time to appreciate the artistic details of the architecture and the natural beauty of the garden. **Directions:** The Imperial Garden is easily accessible from the Forbidden City entrance. Simply follow the signs once you enter the complex. It’s a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the beauty of Beijing’s historical treasures! #travelinginchina #couplestrip #myitinerary

🗺️Destination Overview 👉Day 1: From Daxing airport to hotel at Qianman street, check-in and left for Summer Palace. ✈️Transportation: Took Metro according to Amap guide. 🏖️Must-Visit Attractions: Qianman food street and Qianman. Summer Palace is breath takingly beautiful. The only regret is there is the willow trees only have skeleon during my visit, I wish I could come in May or June. 🥘Food: Qianman street has several Micheline restaurants. 🏠Accommodation 1.Yiting Zhenshe Hotel (Beijing Qianmen Pedestrian Street) 👉Day 2: 🧭Route Tianman Square ➡️ Palace Museum ( Forbidden city) ➡️ Temple of Heaven ✈️Transportation: Metro according to Amap 🏖️Must-Visit Attractions: Tianman square and the obelisks, Mao's Mausoleum , National Museum of China, Monument to the People's Heroes, the great hall of people. Palace museum, so many Pavilions and there are Museum of time pieces and Treasure Hall,as well as Imperial Garden. Temple of heaven park, Temple of heaven, Mound Alter, Fasting palace. 🥘Food: The best roasted duck in town Hongyunlou Roast Duck Restaurant (Nanwei Road) 🏠Accommodation 1.Yiting Zhenshe Hotel (Beijing Qianmen Pedestrian Street) 👉Day 3: The Great Wall (Badaling) and Olympic park (Bird's nest and Ice Cube) ✈️Transportation We booked Busda tour from Trip.com and it was very smooth. 🏖️Must-Visit Attractions: The Great Wall and we took cable car to The Seventh gate and climp up to eight gate and then to nineth nd tenth and back to eight to ride back cable car to the bus stop. On our way back we took off at the Olympic park. I was worth to stroll around for awhile till they lit the lights up, it is so beautiful. Then we took metro to famous Wanfujing street. 🥘Food: there are a lot of nice restaurants around Wanfujing street. 🏠Accommodation 1.Yiting Zhenshe Hotel (Beijing Qianmen Pedestrian Street) There are still many interesting places I would like to go and see but as I have only got limited holidays I can only spend 4 days and 3 nights at Beijing.

#travelinginchina 1 Day in Beijing itinerary for those who are limited in time and have already been to Beijing and seen the main attractions: [Must-Visit Attractions] 1. Beijing Zhongshan Park Thousand of beautiful flowers depending on the season. Spring is the best option. The park is so lolorful and peaceful. 2. Palace of Heavenly Purity The hall was the principal residency of the emperor, highly recommended for history lovers 3. Wangfujing street Enjoy Chinese street food and atmosphere [Must-Try Food] 1. Wangfujing street + Must-Try Dish: local bakery 2. Nancheng cafe + Must-Try Dish: Hot Pot [Accommodation ] Recommended Area for Accommodation if you are staying for more than 1 day is downtown or close to subway at least. As for us, the next day we had a next flight so we stayed at Beijing Daxing International airport Hotel Name: Aerotel Beijing Daxing Internatuonal

#February Good Places 2025 When you come to Beijing, in addition to tasting the authentic Beijing roast duck here, as a member of the Chinese nation, of course you should explore the magnificent and solemn historical buildings behind this ancient capital of many dynasties! Today we come to the Forbidden City and re-trace the footsteps of the emperors. At about 8am, I first took a taxi from the hotel to West Changan Avenue near Tiananmen Square. However, we who have never entered the palace do not know that to enter the palace and it is the main palace of Taihe Hall, it is not easy. From Tiananmen, you have to pass through the Duanmen, the Meridian Gate, and then cross the Inner Golden Water Bridge and the Taihe Gate to reach the Taihe Hall. Mothers and children should take care of themselves and take pictures while walking, as if they have become spoiled palace maids! Finally came to the Hall of Supreme Harmony, when I saw the plaque of "Upright and Bright", scenes of the court drama surfaced in front of me, I was imagining how the emperor sat on the dragon throne to review the memorial! In addition, we also visited the Qianqing Palace, Ci Palace and so on. Finally, we came to the emperor's imperial garden. I believe the emperors will leave a lot of footprints here too! Visit the bonsai rockery in the palace courtyard, and in the environment of birds singing and flowers fragrant, we step out of the Forbidden City to complete this historical journey. 🗓️Itinerary arrangement: half a day 💞Reason for recommendation: irreplaceable historical buildings, precious, grand! Tip🔔: Due to the large number of people visiting the Forbidden City every day, visiting the Forbidden City now needs to make an appointment on the official WeChat account. Friends who want to visit the Forbidden City remember to make an appointment in advance! #Historic Architecture #Forbidden City #Searching for the Emperor's Footprints

Of course you can't go to the Forbidden City when you come to Beijing City! #Forbidden City Museum You will really see the emperor when you go to the Forbidden City! Here’s some useful information when you’re planning your trip to the Palace Museum (Forbidden City) in Beijing: 🕰️Opening Hours: 1. **Online Booking**: Visit the official website of the Palace Museum or download the official app to make a reservation. Many visitors need to make reservations days or weeks in advance. 2. **Ticket Type**: You can choose ordinary tickets, student tickets, etc., according to your needs. 🏖️ Environment/Facilities: 1. **Metro**: You can take Beijing Metro Line 1, get off at Tiananmen East Station or Tiananmen West Station, and walk to the Forbidden City. 2. **Bus**: Several bus lines can reach the Forbidden City, including but not limited to 1, 2 and 82. 3. **Taxi**: Taking a taxi to the Forbidden City in the city is also a convenient option. 💰Average Consumption per Person: 1. **Ticket Price**: Typical adult tickets are about RMB 60, with ticket prices subject to increase during peak season (April 1 to October 31). 2. **Offers**: Discounts may be available for students, seniors and military personnel, etc. It is recommended to check the official website for specific discount policies. I hope you have a pleasant trip to the Forbidden City! Any other questions, feel free to ask me!

#chinatransit Landing at Beijing Daxing International Airport, I was immediately impressed by its futuristic design. Nicknamed the “Starfish”, the massive terminal made transit seamless, and within no time, I was on the Daxing Airport Express heading toward the city center. Arriving in the heart of Beijing, I made my way to the iconic Forbidden City. Stepping through the Meridian Gate, I was transported into China’s imperial past. The vast courtyards, golden rooftops, and intricate red walls reflected centuries of history. Climbing up Jingshan Park, I took in a breathtaking panoramic view of the entire palace complex, a sight that made the journey even more rewarding. From the world’s most advanced airport to China’s grandest imperial palace, this transit was more than just a layover—it was a seamless blend of modern efficiency and timeless history.

#chinaattractions A Walk Through Jingshan Park and a Glimpse of the Forbidden City Climbing to the top of Jingshan Park felt like stepping above time. The path wound gently upward, lined with ancient cypress trees that whispered stories of centuries past. Reaching the Wanchun Pavilion, I was greeted by a breathtaking view: the vast, golden rooftops of the Forbidden City stretching out beneath me. The symmetry and grandeur of the palace complex looked even more magnificent from this vantage point, especially as the afternoon sun bathed the glazed tiles in a warm, golden light. From the hilltop, I caught sight of a quiet corner of the Forbidden City—a serene courtyard framed by red walls and sloping roofs. The contrast of the vibrant red against the deep green trees was striking. Standing there, I imagined the countless stories hidden within those walls—of emperors, concubines, and officials who once walked the same grounds. Jingshan Park and the Forbidden City, with their timeless elegance, offer a perfect blend of natural beauty and historical splendor. In that peaceful moment, I felt connected to Beijing’s imperial past and the enduring charm of its cultural heritage.

Beijing

Beijing and its many temples

"The Imperial Garden" is located at the northern end of the Forbidden City in Beijing, near the Shenwu Gate. It was established in the 18th year of the Yongle period of the Ming Dynasty (1420), originally called the Palace Rear Garden. During the Qing Dynasty, it was renamed "The Imperial Garden" and served as a place of entertainment and leisure for the emperors, empresses, and concubines of the Ming and Qing dynasties. Centered around the Qinan Hall, the garden's architecture is symmetrically flanked by nearly 20 different structures. There are more than 160 ancient trees still standing in the garden today. The paths within the garden are all paved with colorful stones, forming over 900 patterns. Various colored rocks and bonsai are placed throughout, with verdant pines, cypresses, and bamboos interspersed among the rocks, creating an evergreen garden landscape that endures through all seasons.

Chasing flowers in Beijing! You definitely can’t miss the Palace Museum, which has a very complete collection of flowers! And it's very beautiful. Each one is worth checking in, with detailed locations attached. 🔸 ✅Magnolia There are purple and white magnolias in the Forbidden City. The magnolias at Donghuamen are among the earliest to bloom in Beijing. In previous years, the flowers would bloom around March 12th. ⚠️Time: From early March to April 📍Location: Outside Donghuamen, Imperial Garden 🔸 ✅Apricot Blossoms The small apricot blossoms, paired with the tall red walls, are perfect for taking photos. The apricot blossoms in the Forbidden City are my obsession, because they are so hard to catch, the flowering period is not long, and if there is a strong wind, everything will be gone. The apricot blossoms in the Imperial Garden bloom earlier and for a shorter period of time. Photographed on March 28th. ⚠️Time: Recommended end of March 📍Location: Begonia forest at the entrance of Cultural Hall, west side of Kunning Palace, in front of Shoukang Palace, northwest corner of Imperial Garden 🔸 ✅Begonia flowers Begonia flowers rain, so beautiful. The crabapples in the Forbidden City are mainly crabapples of the Western Cape, with red buds that look even cuter when paired with green leaves. ⚠️Time: mid-April (I took the photo on April 14) 📍Location: Xiehe Gate, Wenhua Hall, Cining Palace Garden, Shoukang Palace 🔸 ✅Lilac Purple lilac, white lilac, the lilac in the Forbidden City matches the ancient buildings, making it particularly photogenic, with white jade railings, red walls and orange tiles. ⚠️Time: mid-April, I took the photo on April 14th 📍Location: west of Xihe Gate, next to Wuying Hall, back garden of Cining Palace 🔸 ✅Prunus mume Pink prune is also very pretty. There are parks of all sizes in Beijing, and the Forbidden City is no exception. ⚠️Time: mid-April (April 14) 📍Location: Imperial Garden, next to Wuying Hall 🔸 ✅Peony Flowers are blooming in the Forbidden City. The peonies in the Forbidden City are very, very beautiful. You must go! ⚠️Time: late April to early May 📍Location: Imperial Garden, Cining Palace Back Garden 🔸 ✅Wisteria There are not many wisterias, but they are also very beautiful. Time: Late April to early May Location: Imperial Garden 🔸 👇Other tips 📍Address: Palace Museum . 🚃Travel: Public transportation is recommended, self-driving is not recommended, it is inconvenient. When taking a taxi, please locate Dongxihuamen. . ⏰Recommended playing time: one day. 🔥Please note that the Forbidden City is now divided into afternoon and afternoon sessions. You must enter the museum according to the reservation time. It is recommended to make a reservation for the afternoon session, and you can enter the museum at 11:30. If it is the morning session, you will not be allowed to enter after 12:00. . 🔜Recommendations for visiting the Forbidden City: stamping (I haven’t tried it, but I want to), eating popsicles (the cultural and creative popsicles are ok at 10 yuan each), and visiting exhibitions (there are free exhibitions, remember to make reservations in advance) . ❌Notes for visiting: bring your own dry food, the prices in the Forbidden City are a bit expensive. Although there are not many choices, self-heating rice is a good choice. . 💰Tickets: 40 yuan in off-season, 60 yuan in peak season, free annual pass, reservations are also required.