Palace of Heavenly Purity

Standing in the inner court of the former imperial residence, this hall served for centuries as the emperor's principal bedchamber and later as a place for handling documents and receiving foreign envoys. A tablet above the throne, inscribed with a motto on just rule, famously concealed the sealed name of the chosen heir during part of the Qing dynasty. Its warm interior, red pillars, and gilded screen contrast with the grander ceremonial halls to the south. Bronze firefighting vats flank its terrace.