The Detailed Shopping Guide for Forbidden City Souvenirs
Written by Clementine |
The Forbidden CityĀ in BeijingĀ is a royal palace of China during the Ming and Qing dynasties, located in the center of Beijing’s central axis. It is a crystallization of ancient Chinese architecture, art and history and culture, attracting countless tourists to visit.
During yourĀ BeijingĀ tours, you can’t miss the beautiful Forbidden City souvenirs. There are some stores with the characteristics of Beijing and some goods with the characteristics of the Forbidden City. You can buy these goods as souvenirs or gifts for your friends according to your preferences.
Forbidden City Gift/SouvenirsĀ Shops
The Forbidden City Cultural Products Store
It is located in the north gate of the Forbidden City, west of the goods are a fine handmade products, especially for a variety of stone seals and snuff bottles are the most eye-catching. Here you have the opportunity to witness the store’s master artists painting snuff bottles, the exquisite art of painting is admirable!
Forbidden City Qianmen Cultural and Creative Shop
Walking in from the Zhengyangmen Gate, you will soon find a special Forbidden City souvenir store on your left hand side: the Forbidden City Qianmen Cultural and Creative Shop. This place mainly sells cultural and creative products related to the Forbidden City, which are different from the goods inside the Forbidden City. There is also a Corner House Coffee next to it, where you can shop while savoring the coffee.
Palace Museum Online Shopping Gallery
Exit the Shenwu Gate of the Forbidden City and turn left to walk along the Red Wall. When you see a couple of stone statues of imperial cats you will arrive at the store. The store has a wide range of goods, including coffee and desserts. There are also various Forbidden CityĀ souvenirs, such as bookmarks, pens, cups, school bags and so on.
The Children’s Experience StoreĀ
On your family tour in China? When you and your family are traveling in Beijing, you can visit this store with your kids.Ā The Children’s Experience Store is located at the south end of the Jinghe Gate on the east side of the Palace’s central axis. ItĀ is divided into three areas according to function: the southernmost area is mainly set up for the activities of younger children.
The center area is the āinteractive teaching areaā, mainly through the experience of the Forbidden City cultural and creative products to understand the culture of the Forbidden City. The northernmost area is a waiting area for parents, displaying Palace books and Forbidden City souvenirs.
āRecommended tour: 5 Days Beijing Family Tour (Kid-friendly)
What to Buy in the Forbidden City: Best Souvenirs
Forbidden CityĀ Fridge Stickers
With its unique design and affordable price, the refrigerator sticker of the Forbidden City is one of the star products among the cultural and creative products of the Forbidden City. Whether as a souvenir or a companion gift, it is very suitable.
Forbidden CityĀ Specialty Books
Specialty books such as Forbidden City 100Ā and Meet the Forbidden CityĀ detail the history, culture and architectural facts of the Forbidden City. These books are not only suitable for reading as cultural books, but can also be collected as precious Forbidden CityĀ souvenirs.
Forbidden City Cat Series
The Forbidden City cat series is designed based on the cats in the Forbidden City, including cell phone holders, ornaments, keychains and other styles. These items are not only adorable and cute, but also have auspicious meanings, making them perfect gifts for friends and family.
Tea at the Forbidden City
There are a number of tea rooms in the Forbidden City that serve a variety of quality teas. Visitors can buy some famous teas as Forbidden City souvenirs for their families, such as Longjing tea and Pu’er tea.
The Four Treasures of the Forbidden City
The Four Treasures of Scholar’s House is an important part of traditional Chinese culture, including pen, ink, paper and inkstone. Within the Forbidden City, there are specialized shops offering the Four Treasures of the Scholar’s Studio. Visitors have the opportunity to purchase exquisite items from this collection as unique Forbidden CityĀ souvenirs of their visit to give to their friends.
Traditional Crafts
Inside the Forbidden City, there are also stores specializing in traditional crafts, such as cloisonne, lacquerĀ ware and paper-cutting. These crafts represent the essence of traditional Chinese craftsmanship and are a very good choice for souvenirs.
Forbidden City Costumes
Inside the Forbidden City, there are some stores specializing in selling traditional costumes. Visitors can buy some exquisite traditional costumes as Forbidden City souvenirs, such as HanfuĀ and cheongsams.
Forbidden City Shopping Tips
- Plan your shopping route in advance according to your sightseeing route and time schedule. This will prevent you from missing your favorite products or stores during your visit.
- When buying the Forbidden City souvenirs, pay attention to the quality and price of the goods. Try to buy from regular stores to avoid buying counterfeit products. Also, spend rationally according to your budget and needs.
Related reading:
How to Visit the Forbidden City in Beijing
Essential Tips to Visit the Forbidden City in Beijng
