Beijing attraction reservations without guesswork
Reserve high-demand attractions through their official channel before building the rest of the day. Use the same passport details and carry the original passport to enter.
Palace Museum
The Palace Museum requires real-name advance booking and does not sell same-day tickets. Its official page says international visitors can use a passport, must bring the original document and enter through Meridian Gate.
Tian'anmen area
Separate sites around Tian'anmen can have separate reservation rules. Check the official page for the exact place you want to enter rather than assuming one booking covers every site.
Build a resilient day
Make the hardest reservation first, then add nearby flexible stops. Recheck closures and entry instructions the evening before, especially around public holidays or major events.