"The [historical and cultural] research institutes and administrative offices in the east and west sections will be relocated to the west corner of the Forbidden City in one year, enlarging the available space," Shan was quoted as saying by the Beijing Daily. Ticket prices will not change.

It was crucial to limit the flow of visitors to these historical buildings, said the chairman of the China Association for Preservation of Ethnic Minorities' Relics surnamed Yu.

Precious and priceless relics inside the Forbidden City will still be guarded from public view.

Yu explained that during exhibitions great care must be taken as changes in light intensity, humidity and air quality can damage ancient items.