Imperial Palace
In today's China there are only two remaining imperial palace complexes. The most famous and important is the Forbidden City in Beijing, the other is its miniature replica: the Imperial Palace in Shenyang. Its construction was begun when Nurhachi (Nulhachi) was in power and it was completed in 1636 by his son, Huangtaiji (Huang Tai Chi), who also was the father of Shunzhi - later to become the first emperor of China's last feudal empire, the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911). Although it resembles the Forbidden City a lot in its layout, the Imperial Palace is distinctive for the Manchu style architecture blended with Han and Mongolian influences.
The main structure includes three sections: The eastern section is probably the most impressive for the octagonal Dazheng Dian, The Hall of Great Affairs, in vivid red and gold, inside which is an elaborate throne where Shunzhi was crowned. In front of the palace stands the the Shiwang Ting, The Ten Princes Pavilion, which used to be the office for the chieftains from the eight banners (Baqi). The middle section starts at Daqing Men, the Main Gate, behind which is the grand Chongzheng Dian, Hall of Supreme Administration, where Huangtaiji commanded military affairs and conducted daily business. The emperor also met diplomats from abroad and leaders of minority groups in this hall. Behind the hall, there is a route leading to the Fenghuang Lou, The Phoenix Tower, the study of Huangtaiji. It is noted as Shenyang's highest building at that time. At the rear of the middle section, is the Qingning Gong, The Palace of Pure Tranquility, the bedchamber for Huangtaiji and his mistress. The western section was added in 1782 by Emperor Qianlong (1711-1799), and its main feature is the Wenshuo Ge, The Hall of Literary Source; it contains the complete works of the Four Treasures as well as a copy with inscription of anthology of Emperor Qianlong.
Newly restored, the palace is opened to public as a grand museum, with exhibition items including furniture, military equipment and collections of paintings and musical instruments, all of which simply add to the glamour and majesty of the Imperial Palace.
How to get there: Take bus No. 213, No.222 or the circular bus to get there.

Open hours: 08:00-17:00
Cost: RMB50.