From the Hall Of Central Harmony, we continue to the Hall of Preserving Harmony, located just behind it. It was used for banquets to entertain princes, high-ranking officials, and foreign envoys, as well as for hosting the final stage of the imperial examination.

 

Since 1789 (the 54th year of Emperor Qianlong’s reign), this hall became the venue for the Palace Examination (Diànshì)—the most important exam in selecting government officials. Additionally, Emperor Shunzhi once held his wedding ceremony here.

 

Above the throne hangs a plaque inscribed with "Huang Jian You Ji" ("Imperial Establishment Knows No Bounds") penned by Emperor Qianlong. The phrase signifies that the Son of Heaven (the emperor) establishes laws to govern the realm, emphasizing his supreme authority.

 

On New Year's Eve and the 15th day of the first lunar month (the full moon festival), emperors hosted grand banquets here, entertaining heads of state, imperial princes, and high-ranking officials of the second rank and above.