Donghuamen

Donghuamen, or the East Flowery Gate, is one of the four main gates of the Forbidden City in Beijing. It served as the imperial entry point for officials and servants during the Ming and Qing dynasties. Today, the gate itself is a majestic structure with a double-eaved roof and vermilion walls, but the area is best known for the Donghuamen Night Market, which sets up along Donghuamen Road every evening. This bustling market offers a dazzling array of street food, from scorpions and starfish on sticks to more conventional dumplings and candied fruit. The atmosphere is lively, with sizzling grills, colorful stalls, and crowds of locals and tourists. During the day, the road is quieter, allowing visitors to appreciate the gate's architecture and the nearby moat. The location is also convenient for exploring the Forbidden City's east side, the Jingshan Park, and the Wangfujing shopping district.

Don't miss

• Sample exotic street food at the night market, such as fried scorpions, silk worms, and grilled squid.
• Photograph the gate's intricate architectural details, including the golden roof tiles and painted beams.
• Walk along the moat for a scenic view of the Forbidden City's eastern wall.
• Visit the nearby Wangfujing Snack Street for more traditional Beijing fare.
• Explore the Forbidden City's east section if you have a ticket, entering through Donghuamen.

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit Donghuamen

Cheapest way inTiananmen Square - Registration Ticket4.1★ · 34 travelers1–2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$4 per personSee dates →Most bookedBeijing Hutong Walking Food and Beer Tour at Hidden Restaurants5★ · 1,379 travelers~4 hoursFree cancellationFrom$80 per personSee dates →Private & flexibleAuthentic Old Beijing Hutong Food and Beer Private Tour5★ · 49 travelers~4 hoursFree cancellationFrom$80 per personSee dates →

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Know before you go

• Come hungry! The night market offers unique snacks you won't find elsewhere.
• Bring cash, as some stalls may not accept cards or mobile payments.
• Be adventurous but cautious with exotic foods – ensure they are cooked thoroughly.
• The night market operates daily, but hours may vary by season. It's busiest on weekends.

A bit of history

Donghuamen was built in 1420 during the Ming Dynasty as part of the Forbidden City's defenses. It was used by civil and military officials entering the palace. The gate has undergone several restorations, most recently in the 20th century.