The Forbidden City is a world-famous ancient architectural complex, with convenient transportation. However, due to the large number of visitors, it is recommended to choose the appropriate entrance based on your starting point. From the Meridian Gate (South Gate), the Wenshu Gate (West Gate), the Donghua Gate (East Gate), and the Xihua Gate (West Gate), each entrance has its own transportation options and opening hours. Planning your route in advance can help avoid long queues at the entrance and make your visit more efficient.
Meridian Gate (South Gate)
The Meridian Gate is the main southern entrance of the Forbidden City. Since July 2, 2011, it has only been open for visitor entry. Visitors can reach it by walking along the eastern and western canals from the Donghua Gate or Xihua Gate. If starting from the Tiananmen Square, you need to pass through the Chendu Gate to enter the Meridian Gate, which is open from 8:00 to 16:00, Tuesday to Sunday. It is closed on Monday. The actual opening hours may vary, so please check the on-site announcements.
There are two bus stops near the Meridian Gate: Tiananmen East and Tiananmen West. You can take bus lines 1, 120, 2, 52, 82, night bus 1, and tourist buses 1 and 2, as well as the No. 1 subway line.
Wenshu Gate (West Gate)
The Wenshu Gate is the northern entrance of the Forbidden City. Since July 2, 2011, it has only been open for visitor exit. It is opposite the Jingshan Park. Visitors can enter through the Wenshu Gate or the Jingshan East Gate. There are two bus stops near the Wenshu Gate: Wenshu Gate and Jingshan East Gate. You can take the 101, 103, 109, and 124 bus routes, as well as buses 58, night bus 13, tourist bus 1, and tourist bus 2.
Donghua Gate (East Gate)
The Donghua Gate is the eastern entrance of the Forbidden City and is currently used as a visitor exit. It can be reached by walking west along the Dong'anmen Street from the Wangfujing commercial street for 800 meters. There are two bus stops near the Donghua Gate: Donghua Gate and the East Gate of the Forbidden City. You can take bus lines 2, 82, night bus 2, and tourist bus 2.
Xihua Gate (West Gate)
The Xihua Gate is the western entrance of the Forbidden City. It is usually used as a staff entrance. You can reach it by walking north along the Nanchang Street from Chang'an Street for 600 meters, or by walking south along the Beilang Street from the Beihai Park for 600 meters. There are two bus stops near the Xihua Gate: Xihua Gate and the West Gate of the Forbidden City. You can take bus line 5, tourist bus 1, and tourist bus 2.
There are many transportation options to reach the Forbidden City. You can choose the most convenient entrance based on your location. It is recommended to check the opening hours and bus routes in advance to avoid any transportation issues that may affect your visit.
