Meridian Gate

Meridian Gate, Beijing (Historic sites) — Fig. 01Meridian Gate© Stereo copyrighted by Underwood & Underwood · Public domain

§ 1

About Meridian Gate

The Wumen, also known as the Meridian Gate, forms the southern and largest entrance to the Forbidden City in Beijing. The structure was built in 1420 during the reign of Emperor Yongle and was later rebuilt twice. Architecturally, the gate stands out for its two wings, which are crowned by a total of five pavilions, known as the Five Phoenix Pavilions. Historically, the central passageway was reserved exclusively for the emperor, while his subjects had to use the side entrances. From the central pavilion, the ruler received reports from the army and proclaimed the new calendar. Today, the imposing gate stands opposite Tiananmen and serves as a striking entrance to one of China's most important cultural sites.

Based on the article “Wumen” from the German Wikipedia, summarized and rephrased by a language modelLicense CC BY-SA 4.0

§ 2

At a glance

Category: Sight › Historic sites
Rating: no reviews yet · write a review
Address: —
Beijing, China
District: Donghuamen Subdistrict
Phone: —
Website: —
Email: —
Coordinates: 39.91186° N · 116.39104° E
Data quality: confidence 0.82
Identifier: ID 5702a200-e50…

Part of the tour

The Imperial Axis on Foot: From the Meridian Gate to the Legation Quarter →

§ 3

Location & surroundings

Toggle layers

Radius

§ 4

FAQ about Meridian Gate

quick answers

What is the Meridian Gate in Beijing?

The Meridian Gate, known in Chinese as Wumen, is the southern and largest entrance to the Forbidden City in Beijing. It was built in 1420 under Emperor Yongle and later rebuilt twice. The gate sits in the Donghuamen Subdistrict, opposite Tiananmen, and today serves as a striking entrance to one of China's most important cultural sites.

What was the significance of the Meridian Gate in imperial times?

The Meridian Gate in Beijing was a site of imperial ceremonies and strictly regulated rank. The central passageway was reserved exclusively for the emperor, while his subjects had to use the side entrances. From the central pavilion, the ruler received reports from the army and proclaimed the new calendar.

What is special about the architecture of the Meridian Gate?

The Meridian Gate of the Forbidden City in Beijing stands out for its two side wings and a total of five pavilions. These structures are known as the Five Phoenix Pavilions. As the largest gate of the Forbidden City, the building looks especially imposing.

What can you see around the Meridian Gate in Beijing?

The Forbidden City begins right behind the Meridian Gate with the Palace Museum, which travelguide195 lists at a distance of about 130 meters. Nearby you'll also find the Inner Golden Water Bridge (about 115 meters), the Gate of Union and Harmony, Xiehemen (about 180 meters), and the Gate of Supreme Harmony, Taihemen (about 235 meters). The square in front of the Hall of Supreme Harmony is also among the nearby sights.

Are there tours and restaurants near the Meridian Gate in Beijing?

Yes, the Meridian Gate is part of a walking tour, and there are several restaurants in the area. travelguide195 lists the tour "Imperial Axis on Foot: From the Meridian Gate to the Legation Quarter," which starts at the Meridian Gate. Within 500 meters, travelguide195 lists about 5 restaurants.

§ 5