A Complete Guide to Spring Flower Viewing at the Forbidden City - Don't Miss it This Year!

The Forbidden City in spring, with red walls reflecting blooming flowers, is as beautiful as a dream that transcends time. Save this detailed flower viewing guide right away🌟 🌼Flower Season Forecast - Mid to late March: Magnolia, apricot blossoms, pear blossoms, and Yulan plum blossoms bloom successively. View magnolias at Donghua Gate and the Imperial Garden; apricot blossoms at Shoukang Gate, West Court of Kunning Palace, Yucui Pavilion in the Imperial Garden, and Zhongcui Palace; pear blossoms at Shoukang Palace and Chengqian Palace; Yulan plum blossoms in the Imperial Garden and outside Wuying Hall. - Early to mid-April: Begonia, lilac, and peach blossoms take center stage. Cloud-like begonias at Wenhua Hall, Xiehe Gate, Cining Palace Garden, Shoukang Palace, and Yihexuan (inside the Hall of Treasures); fragrant lilacs at Wuying Hall, Duanhong Bridge, Shoukang Palace, Cining Palace Garden, and Yanxi Palace; enchanting peach blossoms at East Long House. - Late April to early May: Peonies bloom magnificently in the Imperial Garden and Cining Palace Garden, displaying their royal elegance. 🎫Tickets and Reservations - Ticket prices: Peak season (April 1 - October 31) RMB 60/person, off-peak season (November 1 - March 31 next year) RMB 40/person. The Hall of Treasures and Clock Exhibition Hall require additional tickets, RMB 10/person each. - Reservation method: Make sure to book in advance through the "Palace Museum" official mini program. Bookings open 7 days ahead, and strict entry times must be followed - don't be late! 🚗Transportation Guide - Subway: Take Line 1 to Tiananmen East or Tiananmen West Station and walk from there. - Bus: Multiple bus routes available, such as routes 1, 2, 52, etc. Get off at Tiananmen East or Tiananmen West Station. 🏃‍♀️Flower Viewing Route Meridian Gate → Xiehe Gate (view begonias and take photos with palace walls) → Wenhua Hall (vast begonia grove, like stepping into a spring dream) → Duanhong Bridge (see cute lions alongside lilacs, super interesting) → Cining Palace Garden (interweaving begonias and lilacs, full of classical garden charm) → Hall of Treasures (peaceful and beautiful begonias at Yihexuan) → Imperial Garden (Yulan plum blossoms, peonies, and various flowers) → Exit through Shenwu Gate 📸Photography Tips - Outfit coordination: Wear Hanfu, qipao, or other traditional clothing for maximum atmosphere. Light colors better highlight spring freshness. - Shooting angles: Low-angle upward shots using the sky as background to avoid crowds and highlight flowers; use red walls, palace gates, and flying eaves as foreground elements to add depth. - Best times: Soft morning light is ideal for portraits; late afternoon around 3-4 PM offers excellent lighting effects. 💡Useful Tips - Avoid peak times: Skip weekends and holidays for fewer crowds and better photos. - What to bring: Comfortable shoes for extended walking; water and snacks for energy; sun hat and sunscreen - spring sun can be strong. - Follow rules: Don't pick flowers, don't cross barriers, enjoy flowers civilly. Catch the tail end of spring and come to the Forbidden City for a date with the flowers💕