Beijing’s Forbidden City Reopens Hidden Garden After 100 Years – The Qianlong Garden inside Beijing’s Forbidden City reopened to visitors after more than a century of closure. Built in the 1770s for Emperor Qianlong, this hidden treasure has undergone a massive 25-year restoration project, costing around $15–18 million.
The restoration was led by the World Monuments Fund along with Chinese conservation experts. Chinese President Xi Jinping called it “an important symbol of Chinese civilization” and emphasized the need to protect and preserve such cultural sites.
What visitors can see
The Qianlong Garden, or Palace of Tranquil Longevity, has four courtyards and 27 beautifully designed buildings. These were originally created as a peaceful retreat for the emperor. The garden features rock formations, old trees, and small streams, creating a calm and scenic atmosphere.
Inside the restored buildings, visitors can see ornate furniture, silk murals, jade inlays, and bamboo marquetry, all carefully restored using traditional techniques. Experts say the site is one of the best-preserved examples of Chinese interior design in history.
The restoration team spent years reviving ancient craftsmanship, ensuring historical accuracy and using modern conservation science. Experts praise the project as a strong example of Chinese-American collaboration in heritage preservation.
How to visit
To explore the reopened garden, visitors must buy tickets to The Palace Museum (Forbidden City). Tickets start at $5.60 (₹470) for adults in the low season. Book early, as crowds will form.
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