A favorite classical music venue hosting world-class musicians, this is one of Beijing’s grandest concert halls, preferred by visiting dignitaries. After undergoing extensive renovations, the Forbidden City Concert Hall reopened to the public in 1999 as the home of the Beijing Symphony Orchestra. It has a 600-person capacity and fabulous acoustics. The venue is a mainstay of the annual Nine Gates Jazz festival and the Beijing Music Festival as well as a host of family-friendly events. The walk through the Zhongshuan Park, full of pine and cypress trees, just west of the Imperial Palace to reach the hall is also a treat.