Hall of Mental Cultivation, Imperial residence in Forbidden City, China
The Hall of Mental Cultivation is an imperial residence within the Forbidden City featuring multiple interconnected rooms with intricately carved wooden walls and traditional Chinese furnishings. The ceilings display elaborate painted decorations that reflect imperial aesthetics and craftsmanship.
From 1722 onward, eight Qing emperors conducted their daily administrative work in this space. Later, imperial dowagers exercised power from behind silk screens, making crucial decisions that governed the realm.
This building served as the working center where imperial decisions shaped the empire's daily life. Visitors can see the spaces where power was exercised and understand how the ruler's presence made this hall one of the most important rooms in the palace.
A visit requires advance registration through the Palace Museum website before arriving. Plan your visit during the warmer months when the hall is open to the public.
This was the first building in the Forbidden City to feature glass windows, installed to bring more natural light into the imperial workspace. This innovation allowed rulers to work more efficiently without relying solely on oil lamps.
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