China, known as Asia’s Sleeping Dragon, has finally opened its gates to the world. Stiffness and strictness are two words usually associated to the Chinese race, especially in the field of politics. But behind those issues, lies a rich colorful history yet to be unfolded.
The Forbidden City, along with the Great Wall of China, is one of the most visited tourist destinations in Beijing. During the afternoon breeze, one could see the distinct beauty of the Forbidden City from afar. Its golden roof and bright red walls magnificently reflect the symbol of China’s longstanding power and grandeur.
Beijing, as a growing social and economic power, has a number of hotels to accommodate its guest and visitors who are enthusiastic about Asian culture and dining. There are also a good number of hotels in Beijing that are situated near these destination sites, making it easier for tourist to make good use of their time while enjoying the sights and sounds of the city.
When visiting the Forbidden City of China, it is advisable to go there on weekdays to avoid crowding on weekends. It would be a nice idea to have a tourist guide during the tour for you to be able to appreciate fully the history of the place together with the one of a kind architectural design and structure of the known fortress.
Considered as the largest palace in the world, The Forbidden City, or known locally by the name Gugong or Zinjincheng, has an area that covers at total of 720,000 square meters or 0.3 square miles of land. There are four gates that connect this complex to the outside world. The Tiananmen Gate, strategically located at the southern tip of the complex, is the main gate for the palace.
Upon entering the Tiananmen Gate, there will be an added gate known as the Meridian or the Interior Gate which leads you to center of the palace. Further than the interior gate, is a huge piazza that leads to the Gate of the Supreme Harmony.
The two divisions of the Imperial Court of Harmony are the Inner Court, which serves as the quarters of the existing members of the royal family, and the Outer Court that holds the largest wooden structure of China, the Supreme Harmony Hall.
In the ancient times, the Hall of Supreme Harmony played a vital role in molding the rich culture and tradition of the Chinese people. This hall became a witness of China’s most important historic gathering like enthroning a king and celebrating marriages from the royal family.
The hall is bounded with numerous symbols that symbolize China’s magnificent culture. The dragon, being the known symbol of imperial supremacy and power, is one of the most diverse structures found in the room that would surely get ones attention. Another vital configuration which lies afar from this hall is the Midway Hall of Harmony, where the sovereign exposes himself to the common people to tackle issues that surrounds his statute.
Another hall that houses the emperor and his eunuch and concubines is the Hall of Heavenly Purity. The eunuchs are political advisers to the royal family, their testicles are said to have been cut off to ensure the emperor that his position as king will never be threatened. During the Ming Dynasty, the Hall of Heavenly Purity became exclusive only to the emperor, the Empress, separated by the Hall of Union, lived in the Palace of Earthly Tranquility.
And finally, we go to the Imperial Gardens. Home to the Palace of Tranquil Longevity and the Hall of Mental Cultivation, the Imperial Garden houses the most number of staggering artifacts and relics that are both astonishing and alluring, even the landscape itself captures China’s unique taste and passion for excellence.
China has undeniably secured its place in history; She has been pioneering the world in the field of technology and politics. Today, China offers a unique experience for foreigners and locals as well. The extraordinary blend of history, culture, and technology brings a new experience for everyone. From Beijing hotels to the Great Wall of China, this city is one place you should never miss in your lifetime.
E. Larson is a long-time resident of Beijing, China. He works with the Xijiao Beijing Hotel and many other beijing hotels. Go to his website on the Xijiao Beijing Hotel here.
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