阅读理解
Situated in the heart of Beijing, the
Forbidden City-now
called the Palace Museum-covers
an area of 1,120,000 square meters. During nearly six hundred years, the palace
served as the residence and court of twenty-four emperors. It consists of
various structures built in accordance with the traditional Chinese
architectural hierarchy(层次、结构)and
designed to reflect imperial power and authority.
Entering from the south, visitors will see
a succession of halls and palaces spreading out on either side of the central
axis. The magnificent architectural complex and the vast holdings of paintings,
calligraphy, ceramics, and antiquities of the imperial collections make it one
of the most prestigious museums in China and the world. In 1987 it was listed
as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The Palace Museum can be approached through
the Gate of Heavenly Peace. Immediately to the north of the Palace Museum is
Prospect Hill, while on the east and west are the Wangfujing and Zhongnanhai
neighborhoods. Visitors will be excited to find various historic sites, scenic
parks, shopping malls, museums, and theatres in the vicinity of the Forbidden
City. Conveniently located bus stops and subway stations provide easy access to
transportation.
Free admission for children under 1.2 meters in height.
Concessions (减价票) for elementary, middle school, and undergraduate students on production of valid student I.D. or certified letter from the school administrator (excluding graduate and adult or continuing education students): 20 yuan.
50% discount on concessions for seniors 60 years old and older with valid certificate or proof of age (passport, etc.)
Women's Day: Half-price admission for female visitors.
Children's Day: Free admission for children 14 years old and younger; 50% discount on admission for one accompanying parent, legal guardian, or adult.
Regulations & Suggestions:
The online booking system (http://gugong.228.com.cn) allows visitors to purchase tickets 10 days beforehand.
Receipts will be available for pickup at a designated office in the quadrangle (四方形院)between the Gate of Correct Deportment and the Meridian Gate(午门) within thirty days from the date of intended visit (including date of visit).
Photography is permitted for private, non-commercial use outdoors throughout the Forbidden City, except for sites or areas with "No Photography" signs. For special photography, please contact the Director's Office (Fax: (8610)8500-7415, gugong@dpm.org.cn).