How to Get to the Forbidden City

By bus: Take Bus 1, 2, 52, or 120, or Sightseeing Line 1 or 2, and get off at “Tiananmen East.” From there, it’s about a 900-meter walk to the Meridian Gate.
By subway: Take Line 1 to “Tiananmen East,” then walk roughly 900 meters to enter the Palace Museum through the Meridian Gate (the south gate).

The Forbidden City has no dedicated parking lot, and nearby public parking is limited and far. Driving is not recommended.

Tickets Can Be Hard to Get — How to Secure Them

Basic Information

Reference ticket prices: Peak season: adult 60 yuan, student 20 yuan. Off-season: adult 40 yuan, student 20 yuan.
Extra galleries: Treasure Gallery 10 yuan, Clock Gallery 10 yuan.

Half-price tickets:
· Seniors aged 60 and above (with valid ID).
· Holders of eligible local social security benefit certificates.

Free admission:
· Retired cadres with a valid retirement certificate.
· Minors (subject to current policy; reservations may still be required).
· Visitors with a valid disability certificate.

How to Buy

Use the official website or major OTA platforms. OTAs often bundle tickets with tours or guides, while the official site focuses on entry tickets only.

Useful Mini-Programs and Apps

The Palace Museum provides mini-programs and apps that make visits much easier. A good default is the official WeChat mini-program “The Palace Museum.” English interface support is available in many places.

It’s one of the best navigation tools for the complex. You can locate buildings, exhibition halls, special galleries, dining spots, shops, restrooms, information desks, medical rooms, and police stations. At some attractions, you can also play audio guides directly on your phone.

It also includes short explainers for key relics and highlights, so even if you didn’t prepare in advance, you can still have a structured visit. In many cases, this single mini-program is enough.

Following the official WeChat account “The Palace Museum” is also a good way to get the latest exhibition updates.