Forbidden City

About this attraction

Known amongst locals as Gu Gong, the Forbidden City was once the imperial palace of several emperors who ruled during the Ming dynasty to the end of the Qing dynasty. In addition to serving as the home of emperors for over 500 years, it also acted as the political centre of the Chinese government. The Forbidden City complex stretches across an area of over 180 acres and comprises nearly a thousand ancient buildings and structures. It was constructed between the years of 1406 to 1420 and presently houses the Palace Museum which features a number of fascinating artefacts and valuable treasures that are on display. The complex is also considered to be the world's largest collection of well-preserved wooden structures and it was designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1987. At present the Forbidden City is one of the most prominent attractions in Beijing and attracts masses of sight-seeing tourists around the year.

Where to pray

Though designated prayer facilities at the Forbidden City will be unavailable for Muslim travellers, there is plenty of space in the vicinity to make use of during prayer times. Travellers could also enquire for a private area to use during prayer times. It is also possible to visit some of the mosques near Forbidden City such as the Dongsi Mosque and Niujie Mosque which are the two most prominent mosques in Beijing.

Halal food

Finding Halal food near Forbidden City can be done at some of the Halal restaurants around town. Some of the most popular Halal restaurants in Beijing include The Mughal's Beijing, 1001 Nights, Dong Lai Shun Restaurant, Mughal's Restaurant, Wangdelou Muslim Restaurant and Afunti.

Must see

Treasure Gallery and the Clock and Watch Gallery

Location

No.4 Jingshanqian Street, Dongcheng District, Beijing 100009, China

Nearby

Within 5 km, nearest first.