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Last Update : 2006-12-6 14:02:38

Behind the Palace of Tranquil Longevity was the retired emperor's private living area following his abdication. It consists of Yangxing Dian (Hall of Temper Cultivation) as the bedroom, Leshou Tang (Hall of Joyful Longevity) and Yihe Xuan (Hall of Maintaining Harmony).

Last Update : 2006-12-26 16:35:13

Empress Dowager Cixi lived here in her late years when she pretended to not be interfering in state affairs. At the north gate of the hall, you may observe a noteworthy jade carving which describes Yu the Great's water-control project. Yu the Great was a legendary flood control hero as well as the supposed first emperor of the Xia Dynasty (21st-16th century BC). The huge carving, weighing around 5,350 kilograms (11,795 pounds), is a masterpiece.

Last Update : 2006-12-6 14:03:16

Now, the Hall of Joyful Longevity, together with the Hall of Temper Cultivation and the Hall of Maintaining Harmony, houses many precious royal articles like clothes, ornaments, furnishings and daily utensils.