Meridian Gate

Meridian Gate Beijing: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Complete Guide to Historical Sites

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

The Meridian Gate (午门, Wǔmén) is the grand southern entrance to Beijing’s Forbidden City—an enduring symbol of imperial authority and Chinese architectural mastery. Constructed between 1417 and 1420 during the Ming dynasty, the gate not only serves as the physical threshold between the outer city and the sacred imperial precinct but also embodies profound cultural and cosmological significance. Today, it stands as both a monumental historical landmark and a vibrant venue for exhibitions, welcoming millions of visitors each year and offering a rich blend of heritage, design, and modern amenities (Asian Studies; Google Arts & Culture).

Meridian Gate of the Forbidden City in Beijing China

Meridian Gate of the Forbidden City with traditional Chinese architecture

Meridian Gate entrance of the Forbidden City in Beijing

Meridian Gate in the Forbidden City Beijing China

Aerial view of the Forbidden City in Beijing, China

Aerial view of the Forbidden City in Beijing, China, showcasing its historic traditional Chinese architecture and expansive palace grounds

Historical Background and Cultural Significance

Origins and Construction

Commissioned by the Yongle Emperor, the Meridian Gate was built as the principal southern gateway to the Forbidden City, employing over one million workers and 100,000 craftsmen. Its construction involved immense logistical feats, such as floating timber down rivers and transporting marble slabs on ice roads (Asian Studies). The imposing gate comprises five passageways, with the central arch reserved for the emperor, set within massive 33-foot-high walls and protected by a 170-foot-wide moat.

Symbolism and Cosmology

Axial Alignment and Imperial Authority:
The Meridian Gate marks the start of the Forbidden City’s central north-south axis, reinforcing the emperor’s role as the “Son of Heaven” and the intermediary between celestial and earthly realms.

Numerology and Yin-Yang Philosophy:
The gate’s five passageways represent the five elements and cardinal directions, aligning with Chinese cosmological theories. Odd numbers, linked to yang and imperial power, appear throughout the design, with the number nine—emblematic of the emperor—featured in decorative elements like the nine rows of golden studs on its doors (Asian Studies).

Ceremonial Functions

Historically, the Meridian Gate was the site of grand imperial ceremonies, announcements, and rituals. Only the emperor entered through the central passage, while officials and other dignitaries passed through side gates. It also served as a location for formal proclamations and, on rare occasions, imperial punishments, underscoring its importance as a symbol of state power (Asian Studies).

Architectural Features

The Meridian Gate’s vibrant red walls symbolize power and happiness, while glazed yellow roof tiles denote imperial authority. Gold, green, and blue accents further enhance its visual impact. The Five-Phoenix Tower (五凤楼) crowns the structure, symbolizing virtue, grace, and the harmonious order of the cosmos (Google Arts & Culture).

Architectural Layout and Defensive Design

The gate rises to about 35 meters, with a distinctive U-shaped layout that allowed defenders to target invaders from multiple angles. The red abutment wall at its base stands 12 meters high, emphasizing defensive and visual prominence (China Beijing Private Tour; Google Arts & Culture). This structure reflects ancient Chinese military strategies and the importance placed on palace security.

Ritual and Hierarchical Design

The five passageways embody strict social order: the central arch was exclusively for the emperor, while side gates were designated for officials, family members, and palace staff (China Beijing Private Tour). This hierarchy reinforced the Forbidden City’s rigid protocols.

Visiting the Meridian Gate: Essential Information

Location and Access

Address: No. 4 Jingshanqian Street, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100009. The Meridian Gate is just north of Tiananmen Square and Tiananmen Tower (BeijingWalking; ChinaDiscovery).
By Subway: Line 1 to Tiananmen East or West; use Exit B at Tiananmen East for direct access.
By Bus: Multiple city routes stop near Tiananmen Square.
By Taxi: Request “天安门广场” (Tiananmen Square).

Entry and Exit

Entrance: All visitors enter via the Meridian Gate (south gate) (DragonTrail).
Exit: Visitors leave through the Gate of Divine Prowess (Shenwu Men) at the Forbidden City’s north end (Tour-Beijing).

Tickets and Reservations

Online Booking is Mandatory: All tickets must be booked in advance. On-site ticket sales are not available (DragonTrail; BeijingWalking).
For International Visitors: Email [email protected] with your full name, passport number, and visit date. Each visitor can reserve one ticket per day (BeijingWalking).
Ticket Prices (2025):
- April–October: CNY 60
- November–March: CNY 40
- Additional charges for special exhibitions (BeijingWalking).
Opening Hours:
- April–October: 8:30 am – 5:00 pm (last entry 4:00 pm)
- November–March: 8:30 am – 4:30 pm (last entry 3:30 pm)
- Closed Mondays, except national holidays (BeijingWalking).

ID and Security: Bring your passport for entry. Security checks are required at Tiananmen Square and the Meridian Gate. Allow extra time for these procedures.

Accessibility

Wheelchair Access: Ramps and pathways are available, though some areas may have uneven surfaces. Wheelchairs can be rented at the entrance (ChinaHighlights).
Service Animals: Permitted throughout the site.
Restrooms and Facilities: Modern restrooms, snack kiosks, vending machines, and gift shops are available on the main route (BeijingWalking).

Visitor Flow and Recommended Routes

Navigating the Gate: Enter via the Meridian Gate, move north to the Gate and Hall of Supreme Harmony, then explore the central halls and inner court before exiting at the Gate of Divine Prowess (TravelChinaGuide).
Classic Two-Hour Tour: Meridian Gate → Gate of Supreme Harmony → Hall of Supreme Harmony → Hall of Central Harmony → Hall of Preserving Harmony → Inner Court → Imperial Garden → Exit (Tour-Beijing).
Half-Day Tour: Add stops at Hall of Martial Valor, Clock Gallery, and the Six Eastern/Western Palaces.

Special Exhibitions and Events

The Meridian Gate frequently hosts major exhibitions and cultural events:

“Rejoicing in Woods and Springs: A Journey through Garden Cultures in China and the Wider World”
April 1 – June 29, 2025. Features over 200 artifacts, including calligraphy, Qing furniture, Western and Japanese art, and Persian miniatures (Palace Museum Official Site).
“When the Great Way Prevails: Special Exhibition of Confucian Culture”
October 1, 2024 – January 5, 2025. Showcases 380 artifacts from 30 museums (VisitBeijing).
“Beyond Boundaries: Cartier and The Palace Museum Craftsmanship and Restoration Exhibition”
Opens late May 2025, featuring 830+ artifacts highlighting East-West craftsmanship.

Note: Most special exhibitions require a separate reservation via the Palace Museum mini-program (VisitBeijing).

Best Times to Visit

Peak Hours: 10:00 am – 1:00 pm (especially for tour groups).
Recommended: Arrive before 8:30 am or after 1:30 pm for fewer crowds (BeijingWalking).
Best Seasons: Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) for mild weather (Asia Odyssey Travel).
Avoid: Weekends and public holidays due to heavy crowds (Tour-Beijing).

Audio Guides and Guided Tours

Audio Guides: Available in multiple languages for a fee at the entrance (ChinaHighlights).
Guided Tours: Official museum guides and private tours can be booked for deeper insight (ChinaHighlights).

Photography and Panoramic Views

Photography: Permitted in most outdoor areas; flash and tripods are not allowed inside exhibition halls.
Best Panoramic Spot: After exiting, visit Jingshan Park’s Wanchun Pavilion for a panoramic view of the entire Forbidden City, especially at sunrise or sunset (Asia Odyssey Travel; ChinaDiscovery).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the Meridian Gate’s opening hours?
A: 8:30 am–5:00 pm (April–October), 8:30 am–4:30 pm (November–March). Closed Mondays except public holidays.

Q: How do I buy tickets?
A: Tickets must be booked online in advance—no on-site sales. International visitors can book by email.

Q: Is the Meridian Gate wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, accessible routes and wheelchairs are available.

Q: Are guided tours and audio guides available?
A: Yes, both can be booked at the entrance.

Q: Can I take photos?
A: Yes, in most outdoor areas. No flash or tripods in exhibitions.

Q: Are there nearby attractions?
A: Yes—Tiananmen Square, Jingshan Park, and the National Museum of China are all within walking distance.

Tips for a Smooth Visit

Plan for security checks at Tiananmen Square and the Meridian Gate.
Wear comfortable shoes; the Forbidden City covers 72 hectares.
Bring your own water and dress for the weather.
Respect posted rules regarding photography and conduct.
Combine your visit with nearby landmarks for a full day’s cultural experience (ChinaDiscovery).

Emergency and Contact Information

Lost and Found: Visit the Meridian Gate info desk.
Medical Assistance: First aid stations are on site.
Contact: [email protected] (BeijingWalking).

Summary and Invitation

The Meridian Gate is a monumental gateway linking visitors to centuries of Chinese imperial history, architectural brilliance, and cultural splendor. Its design, symbolism, and function reflect the values and order of dynastic China. With well-organized access, accessibility accommodations, engaging tours, and vibrant exhibitions, the Meridian Gate remains a living landmark at the heart of Beijing (Asian Studies; Palace Museum Official Site). Plan your visit in advance for a seamless and enriching experience, and explore nearby attractions to fully immerse yourself in Beijing’s imperial legacy.

Download the Audiala app for audio guides, virtual tours, and up-to-date visitor information. For official updates, visit the Palace Museum Official Site and related resources below.