From the Hall of Preserving Harmony, continue straight and once you reach the Gate of Heavenly Purity (Qianqing Gate), you have entered the Inner Court of the Forbidden City.

 

Immediately after passing the Qianqing Gate, on the right-hand side, is the Imperial Study (Shangshu Room), where princes and imperial descendants received their education. On the left-hand side is the Southern Study (Nan Study Room), which was once Emperor Kangxi’s private reading chamber.

 

The Inner Court served as the residence of the emperor and the imperial family, including the empress and concubines. It was also where the emperor held private meetings with high-ranking officials and managed daily state affairs.

 

Similar to the Outer Court, the Inner Court also features three main palaces at its center.