It was announced on Monday that the Imperial Palace, also known as the Forbidden City, will offer three discount packages: free open days, an annual pass and a floating price in a bid to reduce the number of visitors hitting the museum during peak tourism seasons.

The annual pass, which costs 300 yuan per adult and 150 yuan for seniors and students, gives the holder 10 admissions per year. The 2015 annual passes go on sale this October.

Meanwhile, the palace museum will launch free-admission days during the off-season on the first Wednesday of each month between November 2014 and April 2015, targeting one specific demographic each time. Free admission applies to teachers, medical staff, volunteers, soldiers, public security officers and college students, respectively.

Additionally, the Imperial Palace will adopt a single-day floating price on a trial basis between September 12 and 14 of this year. Those visiting the Imperial Museum after 2 p.m. will only be charged 30 yuan to enter, half of the full price of admission.