Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the implications of free public park access in cities like Hangzhou, Chengdu, and Beijing, emphasizing the shift from revenue generation to enhancing human happiness and urban quality of life [1][5]. Group 1: Free Park Access - Starting December 1, 2025, Hangzhou's Lingyin Feilai Peak Scenic Area will no longer charge an entrance fee, allowing visitors to access Lingyin Temple, Yongfu Temple, and Taoguang Temple for free, which previously cost 75 yuan [2]. - The decision to eliminate entrance fees reflects a long-term strategy, as seen in 2002 when West Lake removed barriers, leading to a significant increase in tourism revenue from 29.4 billion yuan in 2002 to 345 billion yuan in 2024 [3]. Group 2: Social and Economic Impact - Free access to parks removes financial barriers, allowing diverse populations to share public spaces, which promotes social equity and enhances community engagement [3]. - The money saved on entrance fees is likely to be redirected towards local businesses, such as dining and accommodations, transforming parks from profit centers into catalysts for local economic activity [3]. Group 3: Urban Management Challenges - The transition to free access presents challenges for urban management, including the need for effective visitor management systems, environmental maintenance, and transportation logistics [4]. - Successful management of these challenges requires a shift in focus from merely controlling visitors to providing services that enhance the visitor experience [4]. Group 4: Global Context and Urban Planning - The article highlights global examples of urban park management, such as London’s green belts and Tokyo’s disaster preparedness parks, illustrating that modern parks serve multiple functions beyond aesthetics [4]. - The concept of "park cities" in China aims to integrate green spaces into urban planning, emphasizing their role as essential infrastructure for sustainable urban development [4].