For foreigners exploring Beijing, the Forbidden City stands as a magnificent gateway to China's imperial history, offering an immersive experience that showcases the grandeur of ancient architecture, the legacy of dynastic rule and the richness of the nation's enduring cultural heritage. Visiting historical landmarks provides an enriching experience, offering valuable insights into history and culture. For journalists, such explorations align with their curiosity and commitment to understanding the past and its influence on the present. A team of journalists from Bangladesh recently visited this iconic historical site, guided by their Chinese friend, Victoria (her English name), embarking on a journey of discovery to delve deeper into its rich history and cultural significance. “Thousands of tourists keep visiting this historical place every day,” Victoria told the visiting journalists. The Forbidden City, located in the centre of Beijing is the supreme model in the development of ancient Chinese palaces, providing insight into the social development of late dynastic China, especially the ritual and court culture, according to the World Heritage Convention, UNESCO. As the royal residences of the emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties from the 15th to 20th century, the Imperial Palaces of the Ming and Qing dynasties in Beijing and Shenyang were the centre of State power in late feudal China. China is expanding visa-free entry to more countries in bid to boost economy The Imperial Palace of the Ming and Qing Dynasties in Beijing known as the Forbidden City was constructed between 1406 and 1420 by the Ming emperor Zhu Di and witnessed the enthronement of 14 Ming and 10 Qing emperors over the following 505 years. The Imperial Palace of the Qing Dynasty in Shenyang was built between 1625 and 1637 by Nurgaci for the Nuzhen/Manchu forebears of the Qing Dynasty, which established itself in Beijing in 1644. Also known as Houjin Palace or Shenglin Palace, it was then used as the secondary capital and temporary residence for the royal family until 1911. The Imperial Palaces of Beijing and Shenyang were inscribed on the World Heritage List in 1987 and 2004 respectively. Seat of supreme power for over five centuries (1416-1911), the Forbidden City in Beijing, with its landscaped gardens and many buildings (whose nearly 10,000 rooms contain furniture and works of art), constitutes a priceless testimony to Chinese civilization during the Ming and Qing dynasties. The Imperial Palace of the Qing Dynasty in Shenyang consists of 114 buildings constructed between 1625–26 and 1783. It contains an important library and testifies to the foundation of the last dynasty that ruled China, before it expanded its power to the centre of the country and moved the capital to Beijing. Bangladesh welcomes investors from China in post-US election landscape This palace then became auxiliary to the Imperial Palace in Beijing. This remarkable architectural edifice offers important historical testimony to the history of the Qing Dynasty and to the cultural traditions of the Manchu and other tribes in the north of China. The Forbidden City's status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site underscores its cultural and historical importance, not just to China but to the world, said a visitor, adding that its unparalleled scale and preservation make it an extraordinary example of ancient Chinese architecture and planning. Its enduring allure and status as the largest preserved royal palace complex in the world attract millions of visitors annually, making it a must-see destination for anyone exploring China's history and culture, she said. Although it was cold this time, the journalists did not have the opportunity to see snow. Their guide, Michael (English name), citing the weather forecast one day, said that there was a possibility of snowfall in Beijing. But there was no snowfall. During his last visit to Beijing 10 years back, one of the journalists was telling Michael that almost all of the signboards and nameplates he saw on the streets were in Chinese. China wants to invest in solar panels manufacturing; deepen ties with Bangladesh “We had to find people who understood English to navigate. This time, the situation is completely different. The street signs are written in English as well as Chinese. The number of people who understand and speak English has also increased. Even those who don't understand can translate and understand and respond through mobile phone apps,” the journalist said, sharing the differences he saw in Beijing where more than 10 million people travel only by subway every day. Visitor Tips: Timing: The Forbidden City is extremely popular, so arrive early to avoid crowds. Mornings and weekdays are generally less crowded. Tickets: Tickets are available online and should be purchased in advance during peak seasons. Tour Duration: A typical visit takes 2–4 hours, but history enthusiasts might spend a full day exploring. Guide or Audio Tour: Consider hiring a guide or using an audio tour for a deeper understanding of the site's history and significance. Practical Information: Location: The Forbidden City is situated near Tiananmen Square in central Beijing. Access: It is easily accessible by subway (Line 1, Tiananmen East or Tiananmen West stations). Facilities: The site is well-equipped with rest areas, gift shops, and eateries. Nearby Attractions: Tiananmen Square: A short walk away, it's a major historical and political landmark. Jingshan Park: Located directly north, it offers a panoramic view of the Forbidden City from the top of its hill.