Beijing Forbidden City & Tiananmen Square Intensive Tour (Korean-speaking Guide)
- Stories of the Forbidden City told by an expert
- The Forbidden City, a historical masterpiece recognized by the world
- The essence of traditional Chinese architecture including the Gate of Supreme Harmony, Hall of Supreme Harmony, Hall of Central Harmony, and Hall of Preserving Harmony... The Forbidden City!
Sightseeing Tours
| Tour Type | Shared tour |
| Transportation method | Get there on your own |
| Minimum participant requirement | 4 travelers |
| Tour types | Guided tour |
| Sightseeing type | Historic site tour |
| Transport | Walking |
Product Info
Civilizations are formed around rivers. All cities in the world are also built around rivers (water).
But what about Beijing? Beijing is a place where it rarely rains. Plus, there is yellow dust!!
Beijing is not a suitable city to be a capital. Then, why did Beijing become the capital?
From the Liao Dynasty established by the Khitan, to the Qing Dynasty of the Manchus, to the current People's Republic of China...
For about 1,000 years, Beijing has continued to function as the center of China and a core region for northern ethnic groups.
We will examine Tiananmen Square, focusing on the 'Forbidden City', which can be called a massive architectural museum, a representative historical museum of China, and a comprehensive cultural space.
📍Course
1. Tiananmen Square: 1 hour duration
It is the square from 'Qianmen', the main gate of the inner city of Beijing, to 'Tiananmen', the main gate of the imperial city, which was once surrounded by walls. After the fall of the Qing Dynasty, the inner city walls were destroyed, resulting in its current appearance.
For the Chinese people, it is the place where the tomb of 'Mao Zedong', who opened a new world, is located, and it is crowded with many pilgrims every day.
For about 1,000 years, Beijing has continued to function as the center of China and a core region for northern ethnic groups.
We will examine Tiananmen Square, focusing on the 'Forbidden City', which can be called a massive architectural museum, a representative historical museum of China, and a comprehensive cultural space.
2. The story of the Forbidden City as seen by Yeonam (Outer Three Halls): 1 hour 30 minutes duration
- Meridian Gate - City wall walk and overview of the Forbidden City - Donghuamen Exhibition Hall - Wenyuange Pavilion at the Hall of Literary Glory - Outer Three Halls area (so-called 'Hall')
- Understanding the architecture (differences between Ming/Qing, understanding of accessories and differences from Joseon)
- What is the story behind Wenyuange Pavilion? Sad memories viewed by Yeonam.
- Depending on the museum's circumstances, only one of the Hall of Literary Glory or the Hall of Martial Valor will be open.
- Areas Yeonam could not visit (Inner Three Palaces & Eastern/Western Six Palaces): 1 hour 30 minutes duration
The Inner Three Palaces were the emperor's private space, where the entry of men other than the emperor was strictly restricted.
Where did Empress Dowager Cixi stay when she first entered the palace and received favor? And we will hear the behind-the-scenes stories hidden there on-site.
Purchase Notice
- When heading to Tiananmen Square, security checks are extremely thorough, so we recommend going empty-handed if possible. (Lighters, e-cigarettes, aerosol sprays, books, medicine, highlighters, selfie sticks, and other items will all be confiscated.)
- There will be security checks upon entering the Forbidden City, but they are not severe. Just be careful of selfie sticks, lighters, and e-cigarettes.
- The Palace Museum is closed every Monday.
- Advance reservations for the Jade Castle are 100% online reservation payments and are non-refundable.
- After applying, please use the chat window to send a copy of your passport. -> Your passport will be your admission ticket.
- Please wear comfortable clothing, but sneakers are recommended. The fort is quite large.
Reminders
A minimum of 4 traveler(s) are required for the tour to depart. If the number of participants does not reach the minimum requirement, the tour will be canceled. An email regarding tour cancellation will be sent 3 day(s) before the departure date
Please arrive at the designated location 10 minute(s) before the scheduled departure time, as the tour will depart on time
FAQs
1. Why is the Forbidden City called Forbidden?
The Forbidden City earned its name because, for nearly 500 years, it was the imperial palace of China, serving as the home of emperors and their households, as well as the ceremonial and political center of Chinese government. It was strictly off-limits to ordinary citizens, and entry required imperial permission, making it a truly 'forbidden' realm for the common people.
2. Can visitors still access and explore the Forbidden City today?
Yes, the Forbidden City is now open to the public as the Palace Museum. Visitors can explore its vast courtyards, halls, and gardens. It is a major historical site, and it is highly recommended to plan your visit in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure a smooth experience and appreciate its grandeur.
3. What is the architectural significance of the Forbidden City's design and symbolic room count?
The Forbidden City's architecture embodies traditional Chinese imperial style, emphasizing symmetry, hierarchy, and harmony. While often rumored to have 9,999 rooms, representing the emperor's closeness to heaven (which has 10,000 rooms according to legend), it actually contains around 9,000 rooms. Its design features, like the yellow glazed roof tiles and red walls, symbolize imperial power and prosperity.
4. Who currently resides or works within the Forbidden City complex?
No one resides in the Forbidden City in a traditional sense anymore. It functions as the Palace Museum, a major cultural institution. Therefore, the people working within the complex are primarily museum staff, curators, researchers, conservationists, security personnel, and administrative employees dedicated to preserving and managing this UNESCO World Heritage site.
5. What is the best route to walk from Tiananmen Square to the Forbidden City's entrance?
The most direct and common route is to walk north from Tiananmen Square. You will pass through Tiananmen Gate, then Duanmen Gate, and finally reach the Meridian Gate (Wumen), which is the main entrance to the Forbidden City. This walk offers a direct approach and iconic views, typically taking about 15-20 minutes, depending on crowds.
6. Which Beijing metro line provides direct access to the Forbidden City?
To reach the Forbidden City, you can take Beijing Metro Line 1 to Tiananmen East Station or Tiananmen West Station. From either station, it's a short walk through Tiananmen Square to the Meridian Gate (Wumen), the primary entrance of the Forbidden City. Both stations offer convenient access to the historical site.
7. What are the recommended strategies for an optimal viewing experience at the Forbidden City?
For an optimal experience, consider visiting early in the morning right after opening or later in the afternoon to avoid peak crowds. Focus on key halls like the Hall of Supreme Harmony and the Imperial Garden. Exploring the east and west side palaces can offer quieter, more intimate views of imperial life. Utilizing audio guides can also enhance your understanding of its rich history.
8. How can international travelers conveniently reach the Forbidden City from Beijing Capital International Airport?
From Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK), travelers can take the Airport Express train to Dongzhimen Station, then transfer to Metro Line 2 and ride to Qianmen Station. From there, it's a pleasant walk north through Tiananmen Square to the Forbidden City. Alternatively, official airport taxis or ride-sharing services offer direct transportation.
