Gate of Heavenly Purity

The Gate of Heavenly Purity (Qianqingmen) is a significant landmark inside the Palace Museum (Forbidden City) in Beijing, located in the Dongcheng District. It served as the formal entrance to the Inner Court, the private residence of the emperor and his family. The gate is a majestic structure with a double-eaved roof covered in yellow glazed tiles, symbolizing imperial authority. Visitors pass through this gate to explore the Hall of Heavenly Purity and the rest of the inner palace complex. The gate itself is adorned with intricate carvings and large bronze cauldrons, and it offers a glimpse into the strict hierarchy of the Ming and Qing dynasties. Its strategic position makes it a must-see for anyone touring the Forbidden City, providing a transition from the grand ceremonial halls to the more intimate living quarters.

Don't miss

• Admire the traditional Chinese architecture and yellow glazed tiles
• See the large bronze cauldrons used for fire prevention
• Walk through the gate to enter the Inner Court
• Observe the intricate stone carvings and imperial motifs

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit Gate of Heavenly Purity

Cheapest way inForbidden City/ Palace Museum & Tiananmen Sq. Ticket Booking4.7★ · 162 travelers2-4 hoursFree cancellationFrom$3 per personSee dates →Best full dayBeijing Essential Full-Day Tour including Great Wall at Badaling, Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square4.6★ · 751 travelers~9 hoursFree cancellationFrom$99 per personSee dates →Private & flexiblePrivate Day Tour Forbidden City Lama Temple and Temple of Heaven5★ · 29 travelers~8 hoursFree cancellationFrom$7 per personSee dates →

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Getting there

Know before you go

• Bring your passport; tickets are often issued on real-name basis.
• Photography is allowed, but no flash near artifacts.
• Wear comfortable shoes; the Forbidden City is vast.
• Bring sun protection and water, especially in summer.

A bit of history

Built in 1420 during the Ming dynasty, the Gate of Heavenly Purity was the main entrance to the emperor's private court. It was rebuilt after a fire in the late 18th century and has been a key part of the Forbidden City's layout.