Beijing, June 14, 2025 — Visitors to the Forbidden City were treated to a breathtaking spectacle as heavy rain brought the ancient stone dragons to life. As torrents of rainwater poured over Beijing on Saturday, the mouths of 1,142 stone dragon heads at the Palace Museum gushed with water, creating a mesmerizing display that left onlookers in awe.
The stone dragon spouts, intricately carved into the base platforms of the three main halls of the Palace Museum, form an essential part of the historic complex’s ingenious drainage system. Designed centuries ago, this system has skillfully protected the Forbidden City from flooding during heavy downpours since its construction.
"It was amazing to see the dragons spouting water. It felt like the whole place came alive," said a visitor who witnessed the scene. "I’ve never seen anything like it before."
The impressive display is not just a visual marvel but also a testament to the architectural brilliance of ancient Chinese engineering. The efficient drainage system ensures that excess rainwater is swiftly channeled away, preserving the integrity of the centuries-old structures.
The Forbidden City, located in the heart of Beijing, served as the imperial palace for 24 emperors during the Ming and Qing dynasties. Today, it stands as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and houses the Palace Museum, attracting millions of visitors from around the world each year.
The heavy rain may have soaked the city, but for those at the Forbidden City, it turned into an unforgettable experience as history and nature combined to create an enchanting moment.
