Question

Asked by Mr.Aj from australia | Jun. 03, 2009 04:55

About:Six Eastern Palaces

Why are there 9999 rooms in Forbidden city?

is their any "must-see" art or symbolism?

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Answers (3)

Answered by Mr.Cage | Jun. 04, 2009 01:21

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Hi,Aj.You have a good question here. The saying that the forbidden city has 9999 and a half room was popular among people. reportedly, Ming Emperor Zhu Di was intented to build 10000 room, but he had a dream on night, in which he was told by the Jade Emperor that the room number is the same as the heaven palace. So, one of his minister suggested build a hald less. Other saying is affected by traditional Chinese philosophy. In ancient China, 9 is regarded as the biggest, representing the king, and 10000 is the utmost, meaning zenith. To be unobtrusive, the emperor had 9999 rooms built.

However, the most reliable one is according to the historians. In fact, there are more than 10000 rooms here. As the time passes, some were getting old and broken. As estimated in 1973, there are some 8000 room in it. To be noticed, one room is not a house or a palace, it is just the space among two pillars in a hall. Take the Hall of Superme Harmony for example, it equles to 55 rooms. So, the City has 980 houses (some 90 courtyards). As to the half room, you can find in Wenyuan Pavilion. The space bwtween the two pillars in the west is half the normal length. Very interesting!

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Answered by Mr.Aj | Jun. 04, 2009 02:57

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Thanks Mr cage!
Have u been there?
I'd like to go.

do u know any good websites I could use?

Thanks again!

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Answered by Mr.Aj | Jun. 04, 2009 03:02

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R there any myths/legends about the city?

I like writing and waz wondering if u think someone could construct a story based on an unusal myth or something?!

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