Gate of Devine Might

The Gate of Devine Might (Shenwu Gate) is the north gate of the Beijing Forbidden City. It was first built in the Ming Yongle 18 Year (1420) and was called Xunwu Gate during that period. Xuanwu is one of the four ancient mythical creatures, speaking from orientation, the Green Dragon was on left, the White Tiger was on right, the Vermilion Bird was in the front, and the Xuanwu was in the back. Xuanwu represents the north, hence, most of the north gate of the imperial palaces were named "Xuanwu". The gate was built in Qing Emperor Kangxi period, and was renamed "Shenwu Gate".

Architectural Features
The gate has a total height of 31m and is rectangle. The base for the gate is white marble xumizuo, and there are three door openings under the gate tower. The building is surrounded by white marble stone balustrade, and built with double eaves hip roof which is decorated with colour paintings. On the upper eave, there is hanging a board with blue and gilt bronze Chinese word "Shenwu Men". The roof of the building is covered by yellow glazed tiles. The top of the inner building is decorated with golden grass ceiling and the ground is paved with gold bricks.

Institution of Choosing "Xiu Nv"
"Xiu Nv" means the women chosen for the emperor who would likely be the imperial concubine or queen in the future. The selection of "Xiu Nv" was held every three year by the supervisor of the Ministry of Revenue in feudal China. The Qing Emperor founded his own characteristics Institution of Choosing "Xiu Nv". The Shenwu Gate was the must passing imperial gate for the women who were waiting for the emperor's selection.