灵隐寺免票，是城市最好的投资

Core Insights - From December 1, 2025, the Lingyin Feilai Peak Scenic Area in Hangzhou will no longer charge an entrance fee, allowing visitors to access Lingyin Temple, Yongfu Temple, and Taoguang Temple for free with an online reservation, previously costing 75 yuan [1] - This decision, while appearing to forgo nearly 1 billion yuan in direct revenue, reflects a long-term strategy similar to the 2002 removal of entrance fees at West Lake, which led to a significant increase in tourism revenue from 29.4 billion yuan in 2002 to 345 billion yuan in 2024 [1] Group 1 - The removal of entrance fees is seen as a way to eliminate barriers, allowing diverse groups of people to share the same scenic resources, promoting social equity [1] - The shift from a profit-driven model to one that stimulates local consumption is highlighted, as visitors may spend their saved ticket money on local food, accommodation, and crafts [2] - The transformation of parks into consumption starting points rather than mere attractions is emphasized, with successful examples from cities like New York showcasing the value of increased foot traffic [2] Group 2 - The decision to eliminate entrance fees also poses challenges for urban management, requiring effective systems for crowd control, sanitation, and cultural preservation [2] - The modern park concept in cities worldwide has evolved to encompass ecological infrastructure that supports leisure, safety, and economic functions, moving beyond mere green spaces [2] - The current trend in Chinese cities towards park-centric urban development reflects a deeper understanding of urban planning, focusing on sustainable growth and human well-being rather than just economic metrics [3] Group 3 - The free access to parks raises fundamental questions about the purpose of urban development, emphasizing the importance of creating spaces that enhance human happiness rather than just numerical growth [3] - Young people are increasingly favoring cities with rich public spaces and cultural considerations, indicating a shift in urban desirability [3] - The removal of financial barriers to access is viewed as a significant step towards modern urban development that prioritizes human-scale experiences [3]