The interior of Shoukang Palace. [Photo by Jiang Dong/asianewsphoto.com]

The western section of the Imperial Palace compound will be opened to the public on Oct 10, the first time in 90 years.

This area used to be the place where empresses lived. The large western part includes the renowned Cining Palace where the Empress Dowager Cixi lived as well as Shoukang Palace.

For the opening, the area has been displayed as an exhibition hall where spectators can view some 1,200 pieces on display.

The 600-square-meter Shoukang Palace has been restored to resemble what it was during the time of Emperor Qianlong, from 1735-1796.