Forbidden City Audio Guide
Explore Forbidden City with Stanza's GPS-triggered offline audio guide.
About the Tour
The Forbidden City is a Chinese imperial palace located in Beijing. It served as the ceremonial and political center of Chinese government for nearly 500 years.
What you will hear
Hall of Central Harmony
A smaller, square hall where the Emperor would rest and receive officials before major ceremonies.
Hall of Central Harmony
This smaller, square building served as a private sanctuary where the Emperor prepared himself for the grand ceremonies held in the neighboring halls.
Hall of Union
Located between the residences of the Emperor and Empress, it symbolized the union of heaven and earth.
The Caisson Ceiling
Suspended directly above your head is an architectural marvel known as a caisson ceiling, featuring a golden dragon that seems to spiral into the heavens.
Yanxi Palace (The Unfinished Crystal Palace)
Known for its unique Western-style 'Crystal Palace' structure, which was left unfinished after the fall of the Qing dynasty.
Yanxi Palace
Amidst the traditional wooden halls of the palace, these stone and iron ruins tell the story of a bold, unfinished attempt to modernize the imperial residence.
Palace of Tranquil Longevity (Treasure Gallery)
Built for the retirement of the Qianlong Emperor, this complex now houses the Forbidden City's most precious treasures.
珍宝馆
The delicate blue of these imperial crowns comes not from paint or gems, but from the iridescent feathers of the kingfisher bird, woven into gold and pearls.
Gate of Divine Might
The northern exit of the Forbidden City, once used by the imperial family for everyday travel.
Gate of Divine Might
Marking the northern boundary of the Forbidden City, this massive gate hides a linguistic secret involving a powerful emperor and a sacred mythical creature.
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