Forbidden City - Inner Golden Water River

Right after entering the Meridian Gate is the Inner Golden Water River. The water runs from the northern Palace Moat, through the northern wall of the Forbidden City. It then runs along the west side of the palace and eventually across the front of the Gate of Supreme Harmony. The river serves as a decoration and a means of fire control. The background of this picture is one of the two Lofty Towers on either side of the Gate of Supreme Harmony.