If we’re heading to Beijing, the Forbidden City is definitely a must-see spot. And the easiest way to get there? The subway! Let’s take a look at the simplest route we can follow to reach this historical gem.
Subway Directions to the Forbidden City
To start, we’ll take Line 1 of the Beijing Subway. The closest station to the Forbidden City is Tiananmen East Station (天安门东). Here’s the route:
1.First, we get off at Tiananmen East Station (Line 1) and walk about 180 meters west along Dongchang’an Street (东长安街).
2.At the end of this stretch, we turn right onto East Square Road (广场东侧路) and walk another 20 meters.
3.Next, we take a right and walk 40 meters before turning left into an underground passage that crosses the street.
4.After crossing, we continue walking straight through another underground tunnel. Then, we take another right and walk 20 meters.
5.Turn right again and walk for 130 meters. After that, we turn left, walk 470 meters, and make another left.
6.Walk another 30 meters, and we’ll find ourselves on Xihuamen Street (西华门大街).
7.Walk for 80 meters on Xihuamen Street, take a right, and walk 20 meters more to reach the entrance of the Forbidden City.
This may sound like a lot, but the walk is clear and easy to follow, leading us directly to one of the most iconic landmarks in China.
Alternative Bus Routes
For those who prefer the bus, there are a few options to consider. Buses like No.1, No.2, No.52, and No.59 stop at Tiananmen East Station, just a short walk to the Forbidden City’s Wumen entrance.
Alternatively, buses such as No.1, No.5, No.52, and No.99 stop at Tiananmen West Station, which is also within walking distance of the Wumen entrance. These bus routes can offer a more direct or comfortable option depending on what we prefer.
Travel guide to the Forbidden City | Beijing travel guide | Beijing travel | China travel
Video by Taste China
Best Time to Visit and Tips
The Forbidden City can get crowded, especially on weekends and public holidays. To avoid the crowds, we recommend visiting early in the morning or during weekdays. The best time to visit is generally from 8:30 AM to 10:00 AM, before the crowds arrive. Tickets cost around 60 RMB, and it’s a good idea to buy them in advance online to skip long lines.
The Forbidden City closes at 5:00 PM, but the last entry is at 4:10 PM, so plan to arrive before then to make the most of your time exploring.
Ready for the Adventure?
Reaching the Forbidden City by subway is an easy and affordable way to enjoy this incredible historical site. With just a few simple steps, we can walk straight into the heart of Beijing’s ancient wonders. So, what are we waiting for, Lykkers? Let’s get ready for this unforgettable adventure!
