The Hall of Dispelling Clouds (Paiyundian) is a splendid structure with red columns and a roof covered with golden yellow tiles. It is built on a platform which is framed by white marble balusters and adorned with bronze dragons, phoenixes and vessels. Inside the hall sits a throne, flanked by a screen, incense burners and fans. The screen is ancient and elegant with exquisite enamelwork embedded in a red backing. Also on display are some precious gifts presented by ministers to Empress Dowager Cixi on her seventieth birthday. The hall together with the adjoining wing halls has 21 rooms, all of which are connected by cloisters.

Such a hall of great luxury was used only once a year for a ceremony to celebrate Cixi's birthday. During the ceremony, Cixi sat on the throne inside the hall while Emperor Guangxu and the other ministers came to show their respect and honor to her. The hall is located in the middle of the front hill and the Tower of Buddhist Incense, a symbol of theocracy, lies at its back. The tower embodies the divine right of the king.

Next: Tower of Buddhist Incense