Beijing: Forbidden City

Perfectly placed in the heart of Beijing, Forbidden City is a graceful historical marvel which China proudly displays. Known as Gu Gong in Chinese, this world renowned heritage site was the majestic palace during the Ming and Qing dynasties and its 980 buildings with 8707 bays of rooms symbolize traditional Chinese architecture. This dazzling historical site has been the inspiration for many cultural and architectural developments in Asia and excels as the largest surviving palace complex in the world.

From ancient times Forbidden City has aroused awe and admiration of its visitors due to its glorious architectural splendour and historical insight. At present it houses the Palace Museum which displays a massive collection of artifacts ranging from Ceramic to Jade. The exhibits are centered on Quing imperial collection while the imperial libraries contain one of the largest preservations of historical books and documents.

The surrounding walls intensifies the magnificence of Forbidden City and serves as defensive as well as retaining walls. The one surrounding the palace is 7.9 meters high and elegantly poised at the four corners are four towers which have been the focal point for much folklore. On each side of the wall are two gates known as the Meridian and the Gate of Divine Might. In addition to these are another two gates towards the east and west referred to as the East Glorious Gate and the West Glorious Gate, all these splendidly decorated by a collection of golden door nails. In close proximity is Raffles Beijing, one of the most sought after Beijing hotels equally admired as an icon of Beijing's historical heritage providing exceptional lavish amenities to its visitors. A trip to the charming city of Beijing would not be complete without exploring the overwhelming Forbidden City and Raffles Beijing surpasses as one of the best luxury hotels in Beijing to experience the wonder of this historical city while indulging in the hotel's innumerable comforts.