Opened on January 17, 2019, the Gallery of Clocks is a must-visit space located in the southern part of the Forbidden City, near the Hall for Ancestral Worship.
This unique gallery showcases a collection of 82 timepieces from the Palace Museum’s archives. Among these, 21 pieces were crafted within China, while the remaining 61 were sourced from international manufacturers.
A highlight of the exhibition is that 20 of these timepieces have never been displayed to the public before. Divided into two distinct exhibition areas, the gallery places a particular emphasis on timepieces from the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911), offering an insight into both Chinese and global clock-making history.
Ticket Information and Pricing
Visitors wishing to explore the Gallery of Clocks will need to purchase separate tickets, as access to this space is not included with the general admission to the Forbidden City.
- Forbidden City Tickets
- High Season (April 1st – October 31st): CNY 60
- Low Season (November 1st – March 31st): CNY 40
- Gallery of Clocks Tickets: CNY 10
It is important to note that the tickets for the Gallery of Clocks are an additional cost and are sold separately from the Forbidden City entrance tickets.
For more details about booking tickets and visiting the Forbidden City, check the official website.
Operating Hours
The Gallery of Clocks is open from Tuesday to Sunday and remains closed on Mondays, except during statutory holidays. The visiting hours are as follows:
- April 1st – October 31st: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM (last admission at 4:10 PM)
- November 1st – March 31st: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM (last admission at 3:40 PM)
Visitors are encouraged to plan their visits accordingly to ensure they have ample time to explore the exhibits.
The History Behind the Clocks
Before the Qing Dynasty, Chinese timekeeping was mainly based on traditional methods such as the sundial. However, during the late Ming and early Qing Dynasties, Western mechanical clocks began to make their way into China.
These timepieces, particularly those from countries such as the United Kingdom, France, and Switzerland, quickly gained popularity at the Qing imperial court. The court made extensive use of these clocks during the 18th century, with many pieces being purchased through Guangdong Customs or directly through foreign merchants who paid tribute to the imperial palace.
Additionally, domestic workshops in places such as Guangzhou and Suzhou began to produce clocks, many of which were also sent as tributes to the imperial court. These domestic timepieces reflect the fusion of traditional Chinese craftsmanship with Western mechanical techniques, highlighting the blend of cultures that defined this era.
The Art of Clockmaking in the Forbidden City
In addition to their practical use as timekeepers, the clocks in the Forbidden City served as decorative masterpieces. The court established clock-making workshops where skilled artisans created timepieces that were not only accurate but also featured intricate designs. These clocks often included mechanical elements such as moving birds, animals, and flowers, all designed to entertain and delight the emperor.
The combination of precise timekeeping, elegant design, and mechanical animation made these clocks highly prized as both functional and decorative objects.
European and Chinese Clocks on Display
The Gallery of Clocks expertly showcases a variety of timepieces from both Western and Chinese origins. On display, visitors can see beautifully crafted timepieces from countries such as England, France, and Switzerland, alongside exceptional pieces produced within China. The gallery’s new design allows for a better appreciation of the intricate craftsmanship and aesthetic value of these clocks.
Notable pieces include a gilded-copper clock featuring a mechanical figure writing in Chinese and another adorned with an elephant pulling a carriage. These clocks not only serve as valuable historical artifacts but also demonstrate the high level of artistic skill achieved in clock-making during the Qing Dynasty.
Exploring the Forbidden City and Its Surroundings
To fully experience the rich history and cultural significance of the Forbidden City, visitors should set aside at least three to four days to explore its numerous exhibitions and architectural wonders. In addition to the Forbidden City, there are many other highlights in Beijing, such as the Great Wall, Temple of Heaven, and Summer Palace, all of which can be visited during a multi-day itinerary.
For those interested in exploring more of China, Beijing serves as a central transportation hub, making it easy to reach other popular destinations such as Xian, Shanghai, and Chengdu. With a variety of tour packages available, visitors can customize their journey to suit their interests and discover hidden gems across the country.
The Gallery of Clocks within the Forbidden City offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of timekeeping, showcasing both the technical and artistic achievements of clockmakers from China and abroad. Whether a history enthusiast or an admirer of fine craftsmanship, this gallery is a remarkable stop for anyone looking to explore Beijing’s cultural heritage.
