"The Forbidden City is too tired and overwhelmed. The ancient buildings, historical relics, security facilities and staff members are 'working despite sickness'."

Shan Jixiang, curator of the Palace Museum, or the Forbidden City, explained why the palace will close on Monday afternoons from January to March. He said the Forbidden City received an average of more than 40,000 visitors a day in 2012.

(China Daily 01/08/2013 page2)