Treasure Gallery and Clock Gallery: whether they are worth the extra cost

Both are optional add-ons, booked and paid for separately from admission. The Treasure Gallery shows imperial artifacts and is smaller and more detailed than the main palace. The Clock Gallery displays mechanical clocks from the Qing dynasty. Both are worth seeing if you have time and interest in the details.

These galleries are separate from your main ticket and cost extra. They are well-curated spaces with explanatory signage in English and Mandarin. If you have already spent three hours on the central axis and you want to go deeper, either gallery adds another hour and costs ¥10.

The Treasure Gallery shows thrones, ceremonial robes, weapons, books and the objects of imperial life up close. The Clock Gallery is specifically for mechanical clocks, which is more specialized. If you are interested in the mechanical engineering and the history of the clocks themselves, it is worthwhile. If you just want to see more gold, the Treasure Gallery is more broadly interesting.

You can skip both and still see the main palace. Most visitors do. But if you find yourself energized at the end of the central axis and have time before closing, either one is worth the ¥10.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to buy the gallery tickets in advance?

You can buy them when you book your main ticket online, or you can buy them at kiosks inside the palace. Availability is usually not an issue; the galleries do not have the same daily cap as the main palace.

Which gallery is better, Treasure or Clock?

Depends on your interest. The Treasure Gallery is more general history and imperial objects. The Clock Gallery is specialized and requires interest in mechanical clocks. If you only have time for one, do the Treasure Gallery.

Can I photograph inside the galleries?

Yes. The galleries allow photography, unlike most of the main hall interiors.