The Palace Museum (formerly known as the Forbidden City) in Beijing was the imperial palace of the Ming (1368-1644) and Qing (1616-1911) dynasties. In 1961, it was approved as a major historical and cultural site protected at the national level by the State Council of China. In 1987, it was included in the World Heritage List by UNESCO./Since July 2, 2011, the Palace Museum has implemented a one-way, south-to-north visiting route: the Meridian Gate (Wu men), the south gate of the Palace Museum, serves solely as the only entrance for visitors, and the Gate of Divine Prowess (Shenwu men) in the north serves solely as an exit. Visitors may leave the Palace Museum either through the Gate of Divine Prowess or the East Prosperity Gate (Donghua men), the east gate of the Palace Museum, at the end of their visit.
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The Palace Museum is the largest existing wooden palace complex in the world. It has experienced multiple fires. Even a lit cigarette butt could endanger this invaluable historical and cultural heritage. Therefore, smoking is strictly prohibited throughout the Palace Museum. Please do not smoke while visiting the Palace Museum, and kindly remind others not to smoke as well!
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Please respect and protect cultural heritage during your visit. Do not scribble on ancient building or etch on ancient trees. Let’s work together to discourage uncivilized behavior!
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To avoid disturbing other visitors, flash photography and camera tripods are not allowed in exhibition halls. Please do not take photos in exhibition spaces or gift shops where photography is explicitly prohibited. Also, please follow the instructions of the staff.
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The Palace Museum is a public open space. For the sake of your personal safety, please follow the instructions of the staff and visit in an orderly manner when it is crowded. Do not jostle each other. As the closing time approaches, please pay attention to broadcast announcements and notices from the staff, and conclude your visit as soon as possible.
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Please take care of your personal belongings during your visit and beware of pickpockets. Do not trust or accept any advertisements or products distributed or sold by strangers. Stay alert to scams, and feel free to report any suspicious activity. Palace Museum Police Station phone number: 86-10-6513 1882.
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If you encounter an emergency or difficulty during your visit, please stay calm and seek assistance from the nearest staff member of the museum. If you are separated from your companions, you may go to the broadcasting station at the southwest corner inside the Gate of Good Fortune (Jingyun men) to request a broadcast announcement. Information hotline: 400-950-1925.