There are three ways to access the areas that are off-limits.
The first is to participate in official special events; the Forbidden City occasionally hosts academic seminars, cultural exchanges, craftsmanship experiences, etc., and some activities allow entry into restricted areas.
However, the timing of such events is uncertain.
Li Younan checked the Forbidden City's official website, and the next event of this kind is likely to be in the first half of next year.
The second way is through academic research and cooperation, requiring researchers in history, archaeology, architecture, and related fields to enter under academic pretenses, with collaborating units or institutions negotiating with the Forbidden City's management.
And the last way is through media interviews and filming; proper media can enter for news reporting and documentary filming by submitting an application detailing the filming theme and content. If approved, they can enter.
