THe bus no.919 express or through takes more than an hour while the train about 69 minutes, almost the same. Since you will travel with your parents, I recommend you go there by train, for it has more space and runs more stably, thus more comfortable.

Please advise me if any tours are available in the forbidden city?

I would like to go to this historic property if possible.

Any information on what to expect and how to behave in a respectful manner would be most helpful.

Thank you and might I add that China put on the BEST Olympic event I have ever seen! China has so much to be proud of.

D. Anderson
Winnipeg Manitoba Canada

Tours in the Forbidden City? You mean only to this place or other Beijing tour packages(https://www.travelchinaguide.com/package/beijing.htm) including this place. If only to this attraction, it is okay to see it by yourself, rent a machine guide. No sepcial rules while visiting. Generally, photography is allowed on most items and places. Some room are not allowed to enter. I think this is a nice place which will take you a longer time. I spent 5-6 hours there.