Top 10 China tours 2024/2025 for first visits and returns: embark on a lifetime experience. Learn more
Palace of Heavenly Purity(Qianqing Gong)

Palace of Heavenly Purity(Qianqing Gong)

Written by Kelly PangUpdated Feb. 2, 2023

Palace of Heavely Purity is the largest building of the three rear palaces. It was the palace where the Emperor slept. During the reigns of Emperor Shunzhi and Emperor Kangxi, this building functioned as an audience chamber for foreign envoys and high-ranking governmental officials.

On such important occasions as the New Years Day, Lantern Festivals, Duanwu Festival, Mid-autumn Festival, Chongyang Festival, Winter Solstice and the birthday of the Emperor, he would be present here to receive the congratulations from his officials and provide a great feast in return.

Palace of Heavenly Purity, Palace MuseumPalace of Heavenly Purity

According to historical documents, two elaborate banquets were held here by the emperors. One was held to express their gratitude to their subjects for their support and great contributions to the nation. The second one was organized by Emperor Qianlong and over 3,000 old men over 65 years old from all walks of life were granted the privilege to present.

The hall was also used as a place for the Emperor's body to lie in State after his death. During the Qing Dynasty, no matter where the emperor died, his coffin was carried to the capital and placed in the hall for several days for memorial ceremonies.

Behind the plaque hanging in the middle of the hall lays an important box, which could shape the destiny of the crown prince. From the time of the Emperor Yongzheng, the name of the Crown prince who had been chosen to succeed the Emperor would be written in duplicate documents. One copy was kept by the Emperor while the other one was sealed in the box and placed behind the plaque.

If the names on each copy were the same, the designated prince could ascend to the throne. Hiding the crown prince's name was supposed to avoid the usurpation of the throne and the idea seemingly worked. The fierce scramble for the throne declined to a minimum during the later Qing times.

Behind the Palace of Heavenly Peace is Palace of Union and Peace(Jiao Tai Dian), where the imperial seals were stored.

More Forbidden City Related Articles

Tour the Forbidden City with Us

Forbidden CityPanoramic View of the Forbidden City

Discover more of China’s history with our expert guides and tour planners. All our tours can be customized. We can create the ideal China trip for you based on your group size, time, budget, interests, preferences, and other requirements. Contact us.

Start planning your tailor-made tour with 1-1 help from our travel advisors. Create Your Trip

Sign up to Our Newsletter

Be the first to receive exciting updates, exclusive promotions, and valuable travel tips from our team of experts.

Why China Highlights

Save Your Time

Save Your Time

  • Less research, more enjoyment!
  • Real-time 1V1 expert planning.
  • Seamless coordination
Maximize Your Flexibility

Maximize Your Flexibility

  • Your own personal guide and ride.
  • Explore at your own pace.
  • Unparalleled flexibility, impossible on a group tour.
Ensure Your Satisfaction

Ensure Your Satisfaction

  • Well-trained elite 20% of guides.
  • 20% vacancy on vehicles.
  • 24/7 emergency support.
Live Your China Story

Live Your China Story

  • Authentic local culture and lifestyles.
  • Understand the culture by living it.
  • Uncover fascinating histories and witness New China.
Rated 5 out of 5 | 98.8% Excellence
China Highlights International
Travel Service Co., LTD
Featured on
China Highlights was featured on these medias.

Address: Building 6, Chuangyi Business Park, 70 Qilidian Road, Guilin, Guangxi, 541004, China