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How to Get There

The Forbidden City is located in the heart of Beijing. Use our guide to find the most efficient way to reach the imperial palace by public transport or private vehicle.

Subway Guide

The Fastest Way: Beijing Subway

The subway is the easiest and most reliable way to reach the Forbidden City. Please note that the complex is only accessible via the Meridian Gate (Wumen) at the south.

Subway Line 1 (Red Line)

This is the most direct line to the entrance. Exit at either:

  • Tiananmen East Station: Use Exit A. It's a 10-minute walk to the Meridian Gate.
  • Tiananmen West Station: Use Exit B. Approximately a 10-12 minute walk to the entrance.

Other Nearby Lines

  • Line 2: Exit at Qianmen Station (Exit A), then walk north through Tiananmen Square.
  • Line 8: Exit at Jinyu Hutong or National Art Museum and walk towards the northern areas if you are starting with other attractions.
Entrance Warning

One-Way Entry Only

Important Arrival Tip

The Forbidden City implements a South-to-North one-way itinerary. You MUST enter through the Meridian Gate (Wumen) at the south end of the palace. You cannot enter through the northern Gate of Divine Prowess.

Bus Routes

Numerous bus lines stop near Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City:

  • Tiananmen East: Buses 1, 2, 52, 59, 82, 120, Sightseeing Line 1, Sightseeing Line 2.
  • Tiananmen West: Buses 1, 5, 52, 99, Sightseeing Line 1, Sightseeing Line 2.

Buses are a great way to see the city surface, but subway is generally faster due to traffic.

Private Transport

Taxi and Private Transfers

Taxi & Ride-Hailing (Didi)

Taxis and Didi cars cannot drive directly into the Forbidden City or even directly to the Meridian Gate. They will drop you off at the closest possible point, usually near Donghuamen (East Glory Gate) or Xihuamen (West Glory Gate).

From these drop-off points, you will need to walk 10-15 minutes to reach the main ticket entrance at the Meridian Gate.

Arriving from Beijing International Airports

  • Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK): Take the Airport Express to Dongzhimen, then transfer to Subway Line 2 to Jianguomen, and finally Subway Line 1 to Tiananmen East (approximately 1.5 hours).
  • Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX): Take the Daxing Airport Express to Caoqiao Station, transfer to Line 19 to Xingong, then Line 4 to Xuanwumen, and finally Line 1 to Tiananmen West (approximately 1.25 hours).

Arriving from High-Speed Railway Stations

  • Beijing South Station: Take Subway Line 4 to Xuanwumen, then transfer to Line 1 to Tiananmen East.
  • Beijing Railway Station: Take Subway Line 2 to Jianguomen, then transfer to Line 1 to Tiananmen East.
Plan Your Visit

Related Information

Opening Hours

Check opening times and schedules

Entrances & Layout

Gate locations and visitor routes

Book Tickets

Secure your entry in advance

Best Time to Visit

Seasonal and weather guidance