More seasons of National Treasure are planned, and some treasures from the show are to be featured in a touring exhibition soon after the first season ends.

Luo Jing, director of museums at the State Administration of Cultural Heritage, said: "This attempt is like cooperation between 'national teams' of the media and protectors of cultural relics. Such a cultural treat can help nurture the public's consciousness and better promote our traditions."

Yan Jingming, the vice-chairman of the China Writers Association, said National Treasure is highly praised because of its mixture of traditional and modern culture.

"Knowledge, entertainment, taste and an accessible approach have been put together in one show," Yan said.

"Cultural relics are given unique characteristics in the stories. That's how we revitalize cultural heritage and begin a dialogue between the past and today.

"Our cultural self-confidence does not fade away," he said. "A show like this fuels people's pride in their heritage."