Beijing's Forbidden City Just Reopened a Hidden Garden for the First Time in 100 Years

"As for what guests get to experience now, TravelHost explained the garden (which is also known as the Palace of Tranquil Longevity) is spread across four connected courtyards and punctuated by 27 structures, each designed as a personal retreat for the emperor. There are also stunning rock gardens, century-old trees, and streams providing the perfect sound effects throughout. The buildings are also full of treasures, including ornate decorations and furnishings."

"According to the World Monuments Fund, the emperor's "breathtaking palace within a palace, which has survived virtually unchanged since its construction, contains some of the most extraordinary examples of Chinese interior design in existence today." "For over two decades, our shared goal has remained the same: to restore this iconic site according to the highest international standards of conservation and to serve as a model for future preservation projects in the Forbidden City," it added."

For more than a century the Qianlong Garden in the Forbidden City remained closed to visitors. In late September the garden reopened after a 25-year restoration costing an estimated $15–$18 million, with support from the World Monuments Fund. Chinese leader Xi Jinping called the site an important symbol of Chinese civilization and urged stronger protection and restoration of cultural relics. UNESCO's Ho Puay-peng praised the lengthy restoration process. The garden spans four connected courtyards with 27 structures, rock gardens, century-old trees, streams, ornate decorations, and original furnishings that showcase extraordinary examples of Chinese interior design.

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