A 2014 file photo shows the lanterns during the Lunar New Year lantern festival in Shanghai.[Photo/IC]

The guidelines also provide specific measures to control tourist flow. Tourists are encouraged to book tickets in advance so that managers of these scenic spots have a general estimate of the number of visitors on any given day. Tourists who buy tickets in advance can also enjoy a discount.

The guideline stresses that once the number of visitors reaches 80 percent of the maximum carrying capacity of a particular place, steps should be taken to control crowds and slow the pace of admitting new people.

Once the tourist number approaches the maximum carrying capacity, authorities in the scenic spots should make the visitors aware of this fact and even alert local government officials so that emergency control plans are on standby mode.

Once the tourist number reaches the maximum carrying capacity, authorities in the scenic spots should stop selling tickets.

Moreover, the new guidelines call for emergency control plans to be prepared for mega events as well as other festivities.

The new guidelines will take effect on April 1, 2015.