Power Struggles in the Forbidden City
Today, let’s dive into an incredibly dramatic story: the power struggles behind the Forbidden City’s role as the imperial palace during the Ming and Qing dynasties.
First, Emperor Yongle (Zhu Di) fought hard to establish his rule.
Then, the Ming dynasty fell to the peasant uprising led by Li Zicheng.
Finally, Wu Sangui allied with the Qing leader Dorgon to overthrow the Ming.
With that, the Ming dynasty ended, and the Qing dynasty rose to power, dominating China!
Next, I’ll take you on a journey through the lives of these historical figures and their deep connections to the Forbidden City. Plus, I’ll share some must-see details of the Palace Museum that you won’t want to miss.
The Story of the Forbidden City Begins with Emperor Yongle
The tale of the Forbidden City, or the Imperial Palace, starts with Emperor Yongle (Zhu Di), the fourth son of the founding Ming Emperor Zhu Yuanzhang. Initially titled the Prince of Yan, Zhu Di rose to power through the turbulent and bloody Jingnan Campaign, ultimately seizing the throne and becoming emperor.
But Zhu Di‘s ambitions extended beyond just claiming the throne. To solidify his rule, he relocated the capital from Nanjing to Beijing, pioneering the concept of “the Son of Heaven guarding the nation’s gate.” He also embarked on the monumental task of building the majestic Forbidden City. Construction took 14 years (1406-1420) and involved a million laborers from across the nation. This is the backdrop of the Forbidden City‘s creation.
Why did Zhu Di choose Beijing as the new capital?
- Security: As the Prince of Yan, Zhu Di‘s domain was in Beiping (modern-day Beijing), located in the heart of the North China Plain. The strategic location was historically a northern stronghold, and Zhu Di had successfully defended it against northern nomadic invasions multiple times. Returning to Beijing meant returning to his power base.
- Centralized Control: Beijing’s prime location made it easy to defend and close to the Grand Canal, facilitating north-south trade. It was both a military stronghold and an economic hub. Choosing Beijing as the capital helped unify the country and strengthened control over the northern regions.
The Peasant Emperor, Li Zicheng
In 1644, during the 17th year of the Chongzhen Emperor’s reign, the Ming Dynasty fell. Li Zicheng, leading a peasant uprising, captured Beijing and the Forbidden City. Emperor Chongzhen hanged himself on a tree in Jingshan Park, near the Forbidden City. This tree, now known as the “The Grieving Willow of Chongzhen’s Demise(罪槐)” remains an important historical site commemorating the Chongzhen emperor’s death.
Though Li Zicheng seized Beijing, his lack of governance experience led to instability. The peasant army’s discipline issues and chaotic management quickly plunged the Forbidden City into turmoil. Li Zicheng‘s fleeting victory made him a short-lived ruler, with his regime lasting only 42 days before collapsing.
Insiders and Outsiders Join Forces: How the Qing Forces Seized Power
Li Zicheng had barely warmed the imperial throne when Wu Sangui‘s urgent plea for help changed everything. Historically, Wu Sangui initially leaned towards surrendering to Li Zicheng. However, upon learning that his father, Wu Xiang, and his beloved concubine, Chen Yuanyuan, were mistreated by Li Zicheng’s troops, he decided to join forces with Dorgon and the Qing army. Together, they delivered a crushing defeat to Li Zicheng’s forces at the Battle of Shanhai Pass. This pivotal event, known as the “Qing Conquest of Beijing,” marked the beginning of Qing rule.
Following this victory, the Shunzhi Emperor became the new master of the Forbidden City. Not only did he preserve the original structure of the palace, but he also infused it with Manchu architectural elements and decorations. The Forbidden City transformed into the political and cultural heart of the Qing dynasty, where emperors managed state affairs, held grand ceremonies, and solidified their power. The Qing dynasty’s reign over the Forbidden City lasted for 276 years, until the last emperor, Puyi, was forced to abdicate.
Travel Guide
Here’s your ultimate guide to exploring the Forbidden City (also known as the Imperial Palace), where the stories of power shifts during the Ming and Qing dynasties unfold. The Forbidden City isn’t just strategically located; it’s a symbol of power and culture, and remains the heart of Beijing to this day. It has witnessed the hardships of Zhu Di’s founding, Li Zicheng’s brief rule, and the Qing army’s ultimate triumph, embodying China’s dynamic history.
With this historical backdrop, you can explore the Forbidden City like an emperor:
Start from the Meridian Gate > Hall of Supreme Harmony > The Hall of Central Harmony and Hall of Preserving Harmony >Palace of Heavenly Purity > Imperial Garden > Shenwu Gate.
The Meridian Gate
The Meridian Gate, also known as the Gate of Five Phoenixes(五凤楼), serves as the main entrance to the Forbidden City in Beijing. It’s not just a vital passage for emperors but also a venue for significant ceremonies such as issuing imperial edicts, receiving foreign envoys, and conducting ritual sacrifices. The name ‘Five Phoenixes’ stems from its auspicious symbolism in Chinese tradition. Dating back to the Han Dynasty, it’s said that the main building of the Meridian Gate was flanked by two drum towers resembling a phoenix spreading its wings. In ancient China, the phoenix symbolized auspiciousness and was revered as a manifestation of the mythical bird.
The Meridian Gate features five archways. The central archway was exclusively for the emperor’s use; during his wedding, the empress could pass through once. After the imperial examination, the top three scholars could exit through this archway once the results were announced. The side archways on the east were for civil and military officials, while those on the west were for royal family members and nobles. The outermost gates, known as the side gates, typically remained closed and were only opened during large-scale events.
Hall of Supreme Harmony
This is the famous Hall of Supreme Harmony often seen in movies and talked about in folklore! It’s the largest and most magnificent palace within the Forbidden City, where emperors held grand ceremonies like coronations and New Year celebrations.
Why is it called the Hall of Supreme Harmony?
Primarily, it symbolizes nobility and imperial authority. In ancient Chinese literature, ‘Supreme Harmony‘ often describes the splendor and dignity of imperial palaces. Additionally, ‘Supreme’ refers to the ornamental decorations on imperial carriages, symbolizing supreme authority. Inside the Hall of Supreme Harmony, the throne known as the ‘Dragon Throne’ features golden dragons and is adorned with ‘Supreme Harmony‘ decorations. These golden embellishments elevate its majesty, hence the name.
The Hall of Central Harmony and Hall of Preserving Harmony
The Hall of Central Harmony and Hall of Preserving Harmony, situated adjacent to the Hall of Supreme Harmony, serve as vital venues for imperial gatherings and banquets.
During the Ming and Qing dynasties, the Baohe Hall had different uses. Before major ceremonies in the Ming dynasty, emperors would change attire here. In the Qing dynasty, annual celebrations such as the New Year’s Eve and the fifteenth day of the first lunar month saw royal feasts with princes and high-ranking officials. Additionally, the palace examinations were conducted here for each academic discipline.
The Palace of Heavenly Purity
This was where emperors lived and conducted governmental affairs on a daily basis. Many intriguing stories and historical events unfolded here, such as:
- The Red Pill Incident and the Palace Relocation: During the late Ming Dynasty, Emperor Tai Chang (Zhu Changluo) tragically passed away after taking the so-called “Red Pill Elixir,” known as the “Red Pill Incident.” Following his death, some ministers forced his favorite consort, Lady Li Xuanzhi, to move out of the Forbidden City, known as the “Palace Relocation Incident.”
- Kangxi’s Removal of Ao Bai: Emperor Kangxi, in his youth, orchestrated the successful removal of the powerful minister Ao Bai from the Southern Study of the Forbidden City, thereby consolidating his own imperial authority.
- The Secret Message Behind the “Zheng Da Guang Ming” Plaque: Legend has it that Emperor Kangxi’s abdication decree was hidden behind the plaque “Zheng Da Guang Ming.” There are also stories about how Prince Yinzhen (later Emperor Yongzheng) sent people to alter the decree, although these remain folklore, they add a mysterious aura to the Forbidden City.
Imperial Garden
Originally designed as a retreat and leisure area for imperial concubines, the Imperial Garden also served purposes such as ceremonies, self-cultivation, book storage, and reading, making it an integral part of royal life.
At the heart of the garden stands a tree known as the ‘Entwined Cypress,’ formed naturally by two ancient cypresses intertwining their upper parts. Legend has it that these trees were planted during the Qianlong Emperor’s reign, symbolizing steadfast love. Today, these cypresses are also classified as second-level protected ancient trees.
Moreover, the garden’s pathways are meticulously paved with multicolored pebbles, forming over 900 different patterns depicting figures, flowers, scenery, dramas, and anecdotes. Each step unveils endless delights.
Lastly
Discover more before you visit the Forbidden City! Check out my ‘5 Handy Tips for a Stress-Free Visit‘ to ensure your trip is packed with insights and zero wasted moments!
I’m Laura! I hope you’ve enjoyed the stories and anecdotes I’ve shared about the Forbidden City’s rich history. It’s been a pleasure guiding you through this journey into a landmark with over 600 years of captivating tales. Let’s keep exploring together!
