Tourist attraction

Meridian Gate

Step through the Meridian Gate, the majestic ceremonial entrance to the Forbidden City, where emperors once passed. This iconic gateway offers a profound glimpse into imperial China's grandeur and history, setting the stage for your exploration of the vast palace complex.

Beijing, China

Rating: 4.5(543)
Duration: 15-30 minutes
Best time: Spring (April-May) and Autumn (September-October) offer pleasant weather.
Status: Open now

Visit website Directions Google Maps

Roamo insight

Imperial Grandeur at the Forbidden City's Threshold

The Meridian Gate is not just an entrance; it's a monumental structure that historically symbolized the emperor's power and the transition into the sacred imperial realm. Its architecture and historical significance make it a compelling starting point for understanding the Forbidden City's vastness and importance.

History buffsPhotographersFirst-time visitors

The verdict

“An essential, awe-inspiring gateway to the Forbidden City, rich with imperial history.”

Worth it if

Must-visit for anyone exploring the Forbidden City, offering a powerful sense of history and scale.

Skip if

You're only interested in modern Beijing or have limited time and prefer to head straight into the main palace courtyards.

What to expect

You'll enter through a massive, imposing stone gatehouse with multiple archways. Inside, you'll find large courtyards and halls. It's a spacious area, often bustling with visitors, serving as the primary access point to the Forbidden City's inner courtyards and palaces.

Highlights

Impressive imperial architecture
Historical significance
Grand entrance to Forbidden City

How to fit it into your trip

This is your mandatory entry point to the Forbidden City. Plan to spend time here at the beginning of your Forbidden City visit.

Nearby plan

Combine with a full exploration of the Forbidden City, followed by a visit to Jingshan Park for panoramic views.

Forbidden City Jingshan Park

Location & stays

Get directions or compare hotel bases around this spot.

Stay nearby

Find a better hotel base near Meridian Gate

Compare live hotel options around Beijing, China and choose a base that fits the way you want to move through the city.

Browse nearby hotels Directions

Plan with Roamo

Build your Beijing trip
around Meridian Gate.

A personalized itinerary in seconds — AI handles the pacing, the route, and your time.

Plan a trip to Beijing Explore more in Beijing

Hours

Open now

Today · 8:30 AM–5 PM

Sunday: 8:30 AM–5 PM
Monday: Closed
Tuesday: 8:30 AM–5 PM
Wednesday: 8:30 AM–5 PM
Thursday: 8:30 AM–5 PM
Friday: 8:30 AM–5 PM
Saturday: 8:30 AM–5 PM

Directions

Imperial Grandeur at the Forbidden City's Threshold

Imperial Grandeur at the Forbidden City's Threshold

What to expect

Highlights

How to fit it into your trip

Nearby plan

Location & stays

Find a better hotel base near Meridian Gate

Build your Beijing trip around Meridian Gate.

Hours

Imperial Grandeur at the Forbidden City's Threshold

What to expect

Highlights

How to fit it into your trip

Nearby plan

Location & stays

Find a better hotel base near Meridian Gate

Build your Beijing trip around Meridian Gate.

Hours

Build your Beijing trip
around Meridian Gate.

Build your Beijing trip
around Meridian Gate.