Location Access

The East Six Palaces sit within the Forbidden City in Beijing’s Dongcheng District , tucked in the northern part of this sprawling palace complex . To reach them , enter through Meridian Gate ( the south gate ) and follow the central axis northward . Alternatively , exit near Gods of Creation and Reproduction to avoid crowds . The palaces are a 10 minute walk from Tiananmen East Station ( subway line 1 ) or a short ride from Forbidden City Station ( lines 1 and 8 ).

Natural Charm

Though the East Six Palaces are historic , their layout blends nature and architecture . Each compound hosts ancient Chinese scholar trees ( ginkgos ) and cypresses , which turn golden in autumn . Stone pathways wind through courtyards , where sunlight filters through tiled roofs , creating peaceful shadows . In winter , snow-dusted eaves and red-wall contrasts make for stunning photos .

Cultural Stories

The East Six Palaces were once home to emperors wives and concubines during the Ming and Qing dynasties . Each palace has a dramatic backstory

  • Jingren Palace Housed Empress Xiaoyi ( prototype for Shen Loop from the drama The Legend of Zhen Huan ) and later Imperial Concubine Zhen ( a favorite of the Guangxu Emperor ).
  • Chenggan Palace Linked to Imperial Consort Dong’e , the beloved wife of the Shunzhi Emperor .
  • Zhongcui Palace Long-time residence of Ci’an Empress , who ruled alongside the famous Cixi ( Empress Dowager ). Locals nicknamed her the East Palace Dowager .

Wandering through these halls feels like stepping into a historical soap opera

Facilities

Inside the Forbidden CityImagine you’ll find rest areas with chairs , clean restrooms , and shops selling palace-themed souvenirs ( think Qing Dynasty phone cases ). For snacks , try corn ice cream or munch on jianbing ( Chinese crepes ) from vendors near the eastern gates . Pro tip Bring water — hydration is key for exploring

Immersive Experience

Visiting the East Six Palaces is like unlocking a behind-the-scenes tour of royal life . Imagine walking through rooms where concubines once schemed , their bedrooms filled with carved dragon beds and gilded mirrors . Some palaces retain original throne chairs and intricate fretwork windows . At night , occasional events project light shows onto the walls , transforming courtyards into time-travel portals .

Insider Tips

  • Go early Arrive at opening ( 8 30 AM ) to beat tour groups .
  • Audio guides Rent one for deeper stories ( available in English ).
  • Dress up Many visitors wear hanfu ( traditional gowns ) for photos — it’s part of the fun

Whether you’re a history buff or a casual visitor , the East Six Palaces offer a peek into China’s royal drama — without the need for a time machine . Explore , snap photos , and let their stories transport you