On my trip to Beijing, I visited the best and largest ancient imperial palace in the world. Beijing Tours include a trip to the Forbidden City, imperial palace located in the center of Beijing. For five hundred years, emperors and their family members have lived in this palace. It has provided a place called home from the Ming Dynasty to the Qing Dynasty. The Forbidden City is one of the most popular tourist spots to visit in Beijing next to the Great Wall. Try China travel today, and do not miss the chance at seeing the biggest palace in the world.

The palace was constructed from 1406 to 1420. It consists of nine hundred and eighty buildings with eight thousand seven hundred and seven bays of rooms. It serves as a representation of traditional Chinese palatial architecture, and has been an influence of cultural and architectural development in Asia. In 1987, it was pronounced the World Heritage Site, and classified as the largest collection of ancient wooden structure in the world.

The name Forbidden City, originated from the Chinese translation Zijin Cheng. Zi, means North Star and Jin means Forbidden. Cheng means a walled city. It was the residence for terrestrial emperors. The term “Forbidden” explained why no one was allowed to either enter or leave the palace without the emperor’s consent.

Forbidden city is an important site in Beijing. Located on the south of the palace is Tiananmen Square, the ceremonial centre of the people’s republic of China. Tiananmen Square is also the largest square in the world. Several cultural events were held in this Square, this makes it known for its great cultural significance. Tiananmen gate leading to the Forbidden City was also built in 1415 during the Ming dynasty era.

Forbidden City is divided in two sections known as the Inner Court and the Outer Court. The Outer Court is the front section of the palace, which was used for ceremonial purposes. The Inner Court is the back section, used for daily activities of the state. The Outer consists of the Meridian Gate, Gate of Divine Might, West Glorious Gate, East Glorious Gate, Corner Towers, gate of supreme Harmony and Hall of Supreme Harmony. The Inner Court on the other hand includes the Hall of Military Eminence, The Hall of Literary Glory, Southern Three Places, Palace of Heavenly Purity, Imperial Garden, Hall of Mental Cultivation and Palace of Tranquil Longevity.

Taking a trip to visit the popular Forbidden City is one of the most exciting things I have ever done. I am happy to know that I have visited the oldest, largest Palace still in existence in the world today. My favorite part was being at the top of the palace and seeing the beautiful view of the entire Palace. Next to visiting the Great wall, I will highly recommend any one taking a trip to China to visit the Forbidden City, as well as other historical locations like the Temple of Heaven and the Summer Palace. If you are considering traveling to China, try Beijing Tours and get the best experience you deserve on your trip.