Built in 1406-1420, the Imperial Palace Museum, popularly known as the Forbidden City, was the permanent residence of the emperors of the Ming (1368-1644) and Qing (1644-1911) dynasties. Over a span of more than 500 years, 24 emperors lived in it. The Palace building complex starts from the Tian'anmen, or Gate of Heavenly Peace. The main entrance is Wumen (Meridien Gate). The Imperial Palace is divided into two parts: the front part of "Outer Court" where the Emperor held important ceremonies and the rear part or "Inner Court", where the Emperor handled routine affairs and he with his empress and concubines lived or spent their leisure hours. The Imperial Palace is the largest and most complete group of ancient buildings that China has preserved to the present. In 1925, the Palace Museum was established and in 1987 it was affirmed by UNESCO as World Heritage. We are very thankful to Cui Hong and Natson, whose precious company we enjoyed during the visit.