Palace Museum expands area for visitors

Authorities in charge of the Palace Museum in Beijing, otherwise known as the Forbidden City, say work is underway to renovate parts of the massive complex to make it more accommodating for visitors.

The renovation work includes the dismantling of food stalls, as well as construction of new pathways and the restoration of certain natural landscapes in the imperial garden.

The living quarters for the emperors' family is also being renovated.

Museum curator Shan Jixiang.

"There were food shops beside the two sides of the Jingyun Gate. Tourists couldn't realize the historical importance of the gate when they visit it."

Shen Lixia is the deputy director of the Forbidden City administration office.

"Restoring the natural landscape of the Imperial Garden also helps widen the passageway for visitors. Now it's twice as wide as the previous one."

Officials with the Palace Museum also say the living area for the emperors' family is expected to be open to tourists by May.

The Forbidden City, built at the beginning of the Ming Dynasty in the 15th century, has been undergoing extensive renovations over the past 10-years.