Question
Asked by boni from Macedonia | April 22,2025 15:44
About:Beijing Trips
Visiting Order of the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square
Visiting Order of the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square
Can they be visited on the same day? Do they require advance reservations?
Answers (1)
Answered by William | April 22,2025 15:44
Yes, it’s possible to visit both in one day, but strict timing and advance bookings are essential:
The Forbidden City: Requires reservations 7 days in advance via the official website/app. Entry is time-slotted (morning/afternoon), and tickets sell out quickly, especially in peak seasons (March–November).
Tiananmen Square: Needs to be booked 9 days in advance through the "Tiananmen Square Visit Reservation" WeChat mini-program. No time slots, but security checks are strict—arrive early with your passport.
Suggested Itinerary for Same-Day Visit:
Morning: Start at Tiananmen Square (open 24/7, but security lines are shorter before 8:00 AM). Visit the Monument to the People’s Heroes and Tiananmen Rostrum (if open).
Late Morning: Enter the Forbidden City via the Meridian Gate, using your pre-booked ticket and passport. Allow 4–5 hours for the tour, exiting through the Shenwu Gate to Jingshan Park for panoramic views.
Afternoon/Evening: Optional add-ons: Climb Jingshan Park, visit the Palace Museum (extra tickets), or walk to nearby Qianmen Street for dinner.
Tip: Both sites enforce strict ID checks—carry your passport at all times, and avoid bringing large bags to speed up security.