The Huangji Hall is located at the front of the central axis of the Ningshou Palace complex, aligned with the rear hall, Ningshou Palace, on a single-layer stone platform. Facing north to south, it has a width of nine bays. The central bay and the left and right secondary bays are equipped with hall doors, while the remaining secondary bays are built with parapet walls. At the rear eaves, the central and secondary bays serve as rear doors leading to Ningshou Palace, while the other bays are walled off. Inside the hall, four gold-gilded coiled dragon columns support an octagonal gilded coffered ceiling above, beneath which sits the throne, second in rank only to the Hall of Supreme Harmony. On the left side of the hall is a copper water clock, and on the right is a large self-striking clock.
Huangji Hall is built on a Xumi pedestal made of bluish-white stone, with a moon terrace extending in front. The imperial path connects directly to the Ningshou Gate via a paved walkway, surrounded by white marble balustrades. Steps are set on both sides of the moon terrace and along the walkway. On either side of the hall are hanging flower gates and screen walls, connecting to the east and west wing rooms, dividing the courtyard into front and rear sections. Doors open within the wings, with the eastern door named Ningqi Gate and the western door named Changze Gate.
On each side of the imperial path are six square Xumi pedestals, upon which stand hexagonal pavilions with double eaves. Each face of the pavilion bears three “longevity” characters in seal script. Additionally, in the 38th year of Emperor Qianlong’s reign (1773), pairs of bronze turtles, cranes, and incense burners were installed but are no longer present.
February 26, 2024, Monday, Lunar Calendar: Seventeenth Day of the First Month
Before and after the restoration of Huangji Hall, the contrast of a single door reflects different historical and cultural meanings, embodying distinct aspects of Eastern aesthetics.