For hundreds of years, access to the Forbidden City, the residence of the Chinese Emperor and his regime, was strictly “forbidden.” Only “approved” individuals were allowed within the walls, and their visits were carefully controlled.
Now, however, all has changed. The once-Forbidden City is now open to visitors, both Chinese and foreign (as long as you are willing to pay the prescribed admission). To me, this was an exciting experience — to enter a previously “verboten” area is a sign that much has changed in China.
Here are some pictures from our visit to this fascinating place.
Inside the walls are a number of pavilions and gates.
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We even had access to the Emperor’s private gardens
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