Mobile Toilets in the Forbidden City
In ancient times, the Forbidden City used mobile chamber pots called 'guanfang' to address toilet needs, while today it has public toilets and continuously upgrades them to meet the demands of visitors.
Mobile Toilets in Ancient Forbidden City - Guanfang
In ancient times, the Forbidden City had no fixed toilets but instead used mobile chamber pots known as 'guanfang'. The materials and designs of guanfang varied according to the status of the users. The guanfang used by the emperor, empress, and high-ranking concubines were extremely exquisite, often crafted from precious golden nanmu and sandalwood, with fine carvings and excellent sealing properties. The interiors were pre-lined with thick layers of aloeswood ash and fragrant wood shavings, which instantly wrapped and absorbed excrement, locking in odors. The chamber pots used by ordinary palace staff were much simpler, mostly made of wood, pottery, or metal.
The usage process of guanfang was also highly particular. For daily urination, the emperor used a small and delicate 'huzi'. For defecation, his personal eunuchs would bring out the imperial guanfang. Each concubine's private chamber in the palace had a secluded toilet area screened by curtains, where a maid would bring a clean guanfang and lay down fragrant herbs. At night, chamber pots were placed in the corners of the bedchambers, screened by folding screens, with night attendants on standby. After use, the chamber pots were immediately removed and cleaned.
Toilet Situation in Today's Forbidden City
Today, there are 14 public toilets along the open routes of the Forbidden City Museum, all managed by dedicated staff, which can basically meet the daily needs of visitors. To address issues such as toilet queues caused by the increasing number of visitors, the Forbidden City Museum has carried out toilet renovation and upgrading work. The western restroom in the Imperial Garden and the eastern restroom near the Forbidden City Academy were selected as pilot projects for design and renovation. Subsequently, the remaining restrooms in the open areas will be gradually upgraded to provide visitors with a more comfortable and convenient toilet environment.
