Working People's Cultural Palace (Imperial Ancestral Temple)北京市劳动人民文化宫
The Working People's Cultural Palace was formerly the Imperial Ancestral Temple (Taimiao) of the Ming and Qing dynasties, where emperors offered sacrifices to their ancestors. Converted to a cultural palace in 1950 and opened free to the public, its grounds hold towering ancient cypresses and solemn halls — one of the most important historic sites around the Forbidden City.
Beijing · Visitor Guide2026-10-18
Quick Answer
Is Working People's Cultural Palace (Imperial Ancestral Temple) worth visiting?
Site of the former Imperial Ancestral Temple southeast of the Forbidden City, with about 140,000 sqm of ancient cypress woods, many Ming-era trees; free with reservation, 6:00-20:00.
Quick facts
| Ticket | Free; advance reservation required |
|---|---|
| Hours | 6:00-20:00 (gates); exhibition halls 8:30-17:00 |
| Recommended duration | 1-2 hours |
| Best time to visit | Spring flowers; autumn foliage |
| How to get there | Metro Line 1 to Tiananmen East, Exit B, then walk through Duanmen |
| English signage | Partial |
| Wheelchair accessible | Partial |
| Original name | Taimiao (Imperial Ancestral Temple) |
| Built | 1420 (Ming Yongle 18th year) |
| Area | ~140,000 sqm |
| Historic role | Imperial ancestral worship site of the Ming and Qing |
| Ancient cypresses | Hundreds, most planted in the Ming dynasty |
| Became cultural palace |
What to expect
Taimiao was the sacred site where Ming and Qing emperors sacrificed to their ancestors, facing the National Museum across the east side of Tiananmen Square. The complex survives almost intact — the Xiangdian (Worship Hall), the Sleeping Hall and the Tiaomiao (Remote Ancestors Hall) — with glazed-tile roofs, gilded columns and vermilion gates in solemn grandeur.
Ancient cypresses tower across the grounds, many over 500 years old, traditionally said to be Ming-era "tree walls" planted by hand. Their gnarled, deep-green boughs against red walls and golden tiles make this a favourite of photographers.
In 1950 Taimiao became the Working People's Cultural Palace, a venue for workers' cultural activities. Concerts and exhibitions are still held among the old buildings. Crabapple blossoms fill the courtyards in spring and the ginkgos turn gold in autumn.
How to get there
Metro Line 1 to Tiananmen East, Exit B; walk north past the Tiananmen Gate tower and Duanmen, or along the east palace wall
Best photo spots
- The pailou gate at the main entrance
- Panorama of the Xiangdian hall
- The cypress-lined avenue
- Locals doing morning exercise
Tips
- Come early in the morning — fewer tourists, and you can watch morning exercisers
- The entrance sits next to the Forbidden City's; easy to mix them up
- Benches inside make a good rest stop between photos
- Free, but you must reserve ahead
Scams to avoid
- Don't believe offers of a "special fast lane"
- Watch out for fake staff
Frequently asked questions
What is the relationship between Taimiao and the Working People's Cultural Palace?
Both names coexist today — Taimiao is the historic name, the Working People's Cultural Palace is the current use
Is it part of the Forbidden City's ticket?
No, but they are adjacent and pair well in one visit
Do I need a reservation?
Yes, free advance reservation through the official WeChat account
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