China’s Forbidden City: our favorite intrigues and facts

Boasting ancient architecture, intricate statues, and over a million artifacts, the Forbidden City of China is a time capsule of the nation’s rich history. Built between 1406 and 1420, the imperial complex housed 24 Chinese emperors from the Ming and Qing dynasties for over 500 years.

Today, the imperial city is UNESCO-listed and serves as a must-visit museum complex. It is close to two other attractions: the Great Hall of the People—where legislative meetings are held, and Tiananmen Square—a marker of modern Chinese politics due to large-scale protests.

While we live in a modern world, not much has changed in terms of activities in the Forbidden City and its surroundings. Sitting in the heart of Beijing, it was a realm of absolute power, where secrets, rivalries, and officials jostling for positions shape the fate of a nation.

As homage to these centuries-old exercises in China’s most politically active imperial palace, we’ve put together a list of fun facts and things to know about visiting the Forbidden City in Beijing.

13 facts about the Chinese Forbidden City

From the facades of the Hall of Supreme Harmony to the lush blooms of the Imperial Garden and the gilded bronze lions guarding the palace complex, there’s plenty to see. But how much do you really know about the Forbidden City’s history—and, by extension, China’s history?

Here are some of the most interesting facts about the Forbidden City in China for more insight.

1. Gang Bing performed an act of self-castration to show loyalty

Gang Bing was a trusted general under Emperor Yongle, the third emperor of the Ming Dynasty. When the emperor left the Forbidden City on a hunting trip, Gang Bing feared his rivals might accuse him of misconduct with the emperor’s 72 concubines—a crime punishable by death.

To protect himself from false accusations, he castrated himself and placed his severed organs in a bag beneath the emperor’s saddle. When the emperor returned and heard the accusations, Gang Bing directed him to check the saddle—proving his innocence in a shocking yet effective way. This act earned him unshakable trust, plenty of gifts, sanctification, and a place in history.

2. Heshen and the Qianlong Emperor’s guilt that led to corruption

The tale goes—as a young man, the Qing Prince Qianlong accidentally startled an imperial concubine. In her panic, she struck him—an unforgivable breach of etiquette. Stripped of her title and unable to bear the shame, she died by suicide, leaving the prince wracked with guilt.

Years later, as emperor, Qianlong spotted Heshen stationed at the gates of the Imperial City—a young guard who resembled the concubine. Moved by guilt, he rapidly promoted him through the ranks. Over time, he became the most corrupt official in Chinese history, controlling imperial revenue and appointing his own allies to key posts.

Heshen tightened his grip on the Qing Emperor when his son married the ruler’s 10th and favorite daughter, Hexiao. His network of corruption weakened the empire and consequently contributed to the Qing Dynasty’s decline.

Read more: China’s historical highlights

3. Empress Dowager Cixi went from concubine to a shadow ruler

A few figures in Chinese history wielded as much power as Empress Dowager Cixi. Originally a concubine to Emperor Xianfeng, she became the true ruler of China after their five-year-old son, Zaichun, or Emperor Muzong, inherited the throne following the ninth Qing Emperor’s death.

Using political cunning, she outmaneuvered eight regents and controlled the empire for 47 years. When her son died, she placed her young nephew, Guangxu, on the throne. Despite his efforts to reform the empire, under modern principles such as the Hundred Days’ Reforms of 1898, she kept him under strict control—eventually imprisoning and allegedly poisoning him.

Knowing about her imminent death, one of Cixi’s final actions was to install her two-year-old nephew, Puyi, as Emperor—commonly known as “The Last Qing Emperor”. She died a day after Guangxu’s death, and the Qing Dynasty and Imperial China collapsed a few years later.

4. The Forbidden City has 9,999 rooms (allegedly)

The Forbidden City is a masterpiece of architectural symbolism, with 9,999 rooms. It’s just one short of the 10,000 rooms believed to exist in heaven to avoid upsetting the God of Heaven. This design reflected the belief that the emperor was the Son of Heaven, a divine ruler on Earth. Yet, he is still human and imperfect, falling short of celestial perfection—hence the number 9,999.

The number 9 is considered a sign of good luck, eternity, and wholeness, particularly in Chinese culture, which adds more meaning to the imperial palace. Its architecture followed the principles of Feng Shui, and each room served a purpose. Whether for ceremonial rituals, imperial affairs, or private quarters, they represented the magnitude of imperial supremacy.

5. The Hall of Supreme Harmony is the largest wooden structure in China

At the heart of the Forbidden City lies the Hall of Supreme Harmony—the largest wooden structure in China. This grand hall was the setting for imperial ceremonies such as coronations, imperial weddings, and other official state functions.

Its design reflects the cosmic order, with towering columns and gilded decorations. Every element—from the curved roof to the phoenix carvings—symbolized the emperor’s divine right to rule. The interiors are just as impressive, with an elaborate throne showing imperial power.

6. The Forbidden City shaped East Asian architecture

The Forbidden City’s architectural grandeur didn’t just define imperial China—it also influenced palace designs throughout East Asia. Its symmetrical layout, emphasis on hierarchy, and use of symbolic colors became a blueprint for other royal complexes throughout the region.

In Japan, the Kyoto Imperial Palace mirrors the Forbidden City’s use of large courtyards, wooden pavilions, and ornamental gates, reflecting a shared appreciation for order and balance. In Korea, Gyeongbokgung Palace in Seoul echoes similar design principles with its throne hall, grand entrance gates, and careful attention to geomancy (Feng Shui).

Even in Vietnam, Hue’s Imperial City draws on the Forbidden City’s structure—an inner sanctum for the emperor, surrounded by layers of walls and ceremonial halls.

7. Colors in the Forbidden City have special meanings

The Forbidden City’s vibrant color palette held profound meanings. Red walls symbolized joy and prosperity, while yellow roof tiles signified imperial authority—exclusive to the emperor. Yellow was exclusively reserved for the imperial family during the Ming and Qing dynasties.

The Forbidden City structures and their design are also symbolic. The outer and inner courts are arranged in groups of three, representing the Qian trigram (Heaven). On the other hand, the residences of the inner court are in clusters of six, representing the Kun trigram (Earth).

8. The Imperial Garden was a private paradise

Tucked away at the northern end of the Forbidden City, right behind the Palace of Earthly Tranquility, the Imperial Garden was a private paradise the royal family used for reprieve.

Built in the 18th year of Ming Dynasty rule, the garden blends natural beauty with careful design. It features ancient pines, ornamental rocks, and elegant pavilions—offering a tranquil escape from the Imperial Court and its politics. The garden was a place for emperors to relax, meditate, keep fit, host sacrificial rituals in solitude, and as a home of the Imperial collections of books.

9. The Nine-Dragon screen guards against evil

In Chinese mythology, dragons represent power and protection. The Nine-Dragon screen within the Forbidden City was believed to ward off evil spirits and safeguard the emperor’s reign. The symbolism behind the dragons represents balance, transformations, and harmony.

Crafted from glazed tiles, this vibrant artwork depicts nine dragons in swirling clouds—a number linked to imperial majesty. Each dragon is unique, with personality and posture dancing through the clouds and waves. It’s undeniably one of the palace’s most iconic and striking features.

Read more: Animal symbolism in China: a traveler’s guide

10. The Forbidden City’s Palace Museum holds over 1.8 million artifacts

The Forbidden City is now home to the Palace Museum, boasting about 1.8 million artifacts spanning over 5,000 years of Chinese history. It showcases the imperial family’s artistic achievements and their lifestyle, with traces of Western cultural influences and exchanges.

The National Palace Museum boasts a treasure of artifacts, like imperial robes, calligraphy, jade carvings, and ceramics, offering a glimpse into the grandeur of China’s dynasties. Established in 1925 by the People’s Republic of China’s government, the museum is a haven for artistic skill.

11. Only the Emperor could use the Meridian Gate

The Meridian Gate (or Wumen) is the grand southern entrance to the Forbidden City. Its central passage was reserved exclusively for the emperor—reinforcing his unmatched authority.

Officials and visitors had to enter through smaller side gates, a clear reminder of the hierarchy that governed life in the Forbidden City. As the largest gate to China’s imperial palace, Wumen is the entryway you’ll use, so remember that you’re walking where emperors once walked.

12. The Forbidden City and Beijing reflect the political legacy of three dynasties

The Forbidden City symbolizes the political influence of three dynasties—Yuan, Ming, and Qing. The Yuan Dynasty (1271–1368), under Kublai Khan, first built a palace on the site, establishing Beijing as China’s capital, which he named “Dadu”. The Ming Dynasty (1368–1644) constructed the Forbidden City in 1406, enforcing Han Chinese rule and Confucian bureaucracy.

The Qing Dynasty (1644–1912) adopted Ming traditions while using the Eight Banner system to maintain Manchu authority. After the Qing’s fall in 1912, the Forbidden City became a symbol of China’s imperial past, reflecting centuries of power and governance.

13. The Golden Water River was both beautiful and practical

The Golden Water River winds through the palace complex like a giant serpent for about 1.3 miles (2 km). The river flows from the northwest corner of the West Glorious Gate. It continues past the Western Palaces through the main courtyard, where it takes the shape of a bow-shaped arc at the Meridian Gate. The river passes the Eastern Palaces, ending at the East Glorious Gate.

Beyond its beauty, it acted as a firebreak, protecting the palace’s structures from devastating blazes. Its meandering course reflects the belief that flowing water brings prosperity and peace.

Best tours to see the Forbidden City, China

Exploring China’s rich heritage is best experienced through curated tours, crafted by locally-based agents, that delve into iconic landmarks like the Forbidden City. Here are some of our best trip ideas with standout itineraries to consider:

16-day off-the-beaten-path China tour

This 16-day journey begins in Beijing, where you’ll explore the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, and the Summer Palace. Beyond the capital, the tour includes:

• A hike along the Great Wall’s Jiankou section.
• Visits to the Yungang Grottoes in Datong.
• The Terracotta Army in Xi’an.
• Witnessing the landscape of Rainbow Mountains.
• Exploring the enchanting caves and temples of Zhangye.

12-day China tour off the beaten track

Designed for travelers seeking unique experiences, this 12-day tour features:

• Beijing’s Forbidden City and Temple of Heaven.
• A visit to the less-touristy Huanghuacheng section of the Great Wall.
• Xi’an’s ancient city wall and Muslim Quarter.
• Chengdu’s culinary delights and tea culture.
• The picturesque Longji Rice Terraces.

12-day authentic China expedition trip

This 12-day expedition offers an immersive cultural experience, including:

• Beijing’s Forbidden City and Summer Palace.
• A visit to the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall.
• Xi’an’s Big Wild Goose Pagoda and the Terracotta Warriors.
• Chengdu’s Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding.
• A Li River cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo.

Read more: Interview with a local expert in China

FAQs about the Forbidden City of China

This guide has covered quite a lot, but you might still have some lingering questions. Here are a few answers to the most commonly asked questions about the Forbidden City in China.

When is the best time to visit the Forbidden City in China?

The best time to tour the Forbidden City is during the spring season (April – May) and fall (September – October) when weather conditions are comfortable. The crowds are smaller, and you can enjoy the beautiful spring blossoms or fall foliage. Avoid visiting during the hot and crowded summer season (June – August) as well as major Chinese national holidays like the Golden Week in October.

How did the Forbidden City get its name?

The name “Forbidden City” shows its exclusivity during imperial times. Commoners were forbidden from entering without permission, and even officials were restricted to specific areas.

How much is the entrance fee to the Forbidden City?

The entrance fee to the Forbidden City varies by season:

• April to October (Peak Season): CN¥60 ($8 USD) per person
• November to March (Off-Peak Season): CN¥40 (approximately $5 USD) per person

Tickets can sell out quickly, especially during holidays, so advance booking is recommended for a smooth visit. A great way to secure your tickets is by booking a custom tour with us.

Is it worth going inside the Forbidden City?

Absolutely. Stepping inside the Forbidden City is like walking through 500 years of history. The architecture is breathtaking, and the Palace Museum holds over a million priceless artifacts.

Make it happen

The Forbidden City can easily be included in any of our China itineraries. All tours created by our local travel experts are 100% bespoke and unique to you, so get in touch with them to start planning your trip today.