China's Forbidden City offers a glimpse into the nation's imperial past. For Guobuluo Runqi the nation's most popular tourist attraction also offers a glimpse into a very unique childhood. Guobuluo became part of the imperial household at the age of seven, when his sister married China's last emperor, Pu Yi, in the early 20s. There he remained until 1924, when the newly-minted nationalist government pulled up the drawbridge on centuries of imperial rule. Now aged 86, Guobuluo's imperial upbringing has taken a back-seat, as he attempts to open a clinic for the practice of traditional Chinese medicine. It may not be playing in the Forbidden City with Pu Yi, but Guobuluo insists that now "is the best time" of an incredible life story.

Produced by ABC Australia