The two most important areas in the Forbidden City are the Outer Court, also known as the Front Court, located in the south, and the Inner Court, also called the Rear Palace, in the north.

 

When entering the Forbidden City from the south, you will first visit the Outer Court. This is where grand imperial ceremonies took place and served as the central administrative area of the Forbidden City.

 

In the Outer Court, there are three main halls aligned along a north-south axis, connecting to the Inner Court. These halls are collectively known as the "Three Front Halls" (Qian San Dian).

 

All three halls are firmly built on a three-tiered terrace, standing 6 meters high, resembling the Chinese character "土" (meaning "earth" or "land"). This design symbolizes the supreme central authority, signifying the emperor’s firm rule and the nation's stability against all challenges. This terrace is also the highest point in the Forbidden City.

 

The three main halls, along with the Wenhua Hall to the east and the Wuying Hall to the west form the expansive Outer Court area.

 

All three halls feature thrones, with the largest throne located in the Hall of Supreme Harmony. A distinctive aspect of the Outer Court is the absence of trees. This design choice serves to enhance the solemnity and grandeur of the palaces, underscore the emperor's authority, just like in heaven where there are no trees. Besides that, in Chinese, the character tree 木 inside an enclosure 囗 (like walls) results in the character 困 , which means trap. The emperors didn’t want to feel trapped, so trees are not allowed here. Practically, the lack of trees also prevents potential hiding places for assassins, as well as deter birds and insects.