The Gate of Heavenly Purity (Qianqing Men) separates the palace into the Outer and Inner Court. Behind the gate is the residential area of the palace. In front of the gate stands a pair of golden lions, a little smaller than those guarding the Gate of Supreme Harmony. The mighty lions, in the opinion of Chinese people, are extraordinary gate-guarders which frighten devils away. Beside the lions, ten huge golden vats are laid. These golden vats are not only garnitures but also hold water in case of fire. These vats weigh over 2,000 kilograms (4,409 pounds) and can hold more than 2,000 kilograms (4,409 pounds) of water.

During the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911), Emperor Kangxi, the second successor, began to hold court at this gate instead of the Gate of Supreme Harmony. Ministers used to gather outside the gate at dawn, report the state affairs to their emperor and await the emperor's decision. The Upper Study, in the east, was where princes studied in the Qing Dynasty. In the west, the smaller houses were the offices of the General Command Centre (Junji Chu), initially a military institution. Later the area saw the enaction of national decrees.

Next: Hall of Heavenly Purity