The Palace Museum requires advance real-name reservations and does not normally sell same-day tickets. Use its official international booking route where available and enter with the passport used to reserve.
Reserve before the release window fills
Ticket procedures and release times can change. Check the Palace Museum's official notice shortly before your booking date, enter every passport detail exactly and avoid unofficial promises of guaranteed entry.
Coordinate Tian'anmen access
The Forbidden City and Tian'anmen area can involve separate reservations and security arrangements. Do not assume one ticket automatically covers every surrounding site.
Plan a one-way visit
Most visitors enter from the south and leave toward the north. Wear comfortable shoes, allow several hours and arrange the next destination around the exit rather than trying to return immediately to the entrance.
Official sources
Sources checked 13 August 2026. Reconfirm time-sensitive details before departure.
Frequently asked questions
Can I buy Forbidden City tickets at the gate?
Do not rely on same-day gate sales. Reserve in advance through the official Palace Museum channel.
Do foreigners need a passport?
Use and carry the original passport linked to the real-name reservation.