The Grand Council controlled many segments of the Qing dynasty's rule. Not only did they advise the emperor in times of need, but they were also in charge of drafting all edicts, taking care of the emperor's transportation, and planning and overseeing various ceremonies and celebrations that would involve the emperor and his family. They also took many administrative responsibilities, but they maintained a degree of freedom and were not restrained by the same laws that applied to the outer circle of the palace or even the provinces.

The Jiaqing Emperor, the son of the Qianlong Emperor, was the one who made the first changes within the Grand Council. He limited the number of councilors and introduced punishments for those who made administrative errors. In 1861, during the regency of Empress Dowagers Ci'an and Cixi, the Grand Council held the most power. Since both empress dowagers had no experience in state affairs, the Grand Council made the majority of the decisions. They even issued an edict that officially granted them such power. The Grand Council lasted until 1911 when the Prince-Regent at the time, Prince Chun, abolished it in favor of an "Imperial Cabinet."