The parks feature large green space and short distance from the residential area while the museums are seen favorable to carry out patriotism education and disseminate scientific knowledge, the Beijing Morning Post reported Friday.

According to the statistics, the 12 parks had a combined capacity of 22.8 million visitors last year, with a ticket revenue of 12 million yuan (some US$1.5 million).

Meanwhile, visitors of the six museums amounted to 130,000, contributing to 600,000 yuan (US$75,000). The revenue loss following the new policy would be covered by municipal and district governments to ensure regular operation and maintenance of the facilities.

Parks registered with the urban authorities total 169 in Beijing, of which 111 provide free-entry service. The participation of another 12 raises the number to 123, or 72.78 percent of the total.

Beijing has 51 museums, including two offering free admission. With another six joining, the share of the museums without entry cost reaches 15.69 percent.