Beijing - Forbidden City & Dongcheng Central (PDF Chapter)

This is the Forbidden City & Dōngchéng Central chapter from Lonely Planet’s Beijing guidebook.

The most historically significant part of Běijīng, Dōng­chéng Central comprises much of what was once the Imperial City, at the heart of which lay the Forbidden City, from where emperors ruled China for more than 500 years.

• marvel at the might and splendour of the Forbidden City, the world’s largest palace complex and the place 24 consecutive emperors of China called home
• maps
• place yourself at the symbolic heart of the Chinese universe with a visit to Tiān’ānmén Square
• transport
• enjoy a show or just stare open-mouthed at the sci-fi architecture of the National Centre for the Performing Arts
• restaurants & bars

Coverage includes: Neighbourhood Top Five, Local Life, Getting There & Away, Sights, Eating, Drinking & Nightlife, Entertainment, Shopping, Sports & Activities.