Core Viewpoint - The introduction of a 50 yuan maintenance fee for entering Lijiang Ancient Town has sparked significant public interest and debate, particularly due to changes in enforcement and payment requirements [1][2]. Group 1: Maintenance Fee Implementation - The Lijiang government announced a 50 yuan per person maintenance fee effective from August 1, with a validity period extended to 365 days [1]. - Previously, the maintenance fee was collected since 2001, but enforcement was lax, allowing individual tourists to enter without payment, while group tourists were required to pay through their travel agencies [1][2]. - The new regulation mandates that tourists who do not pay the fee will be compelled to do so by the Lijiang Ancient Town Protection Management Authority, indicating a shift towards stricter enforcement [1]. Group 2: Historical Context and Regulatory Framework - The maintenance fee is based on the "Lijiang Ancient Town Protection Regulations" and has been approved by local government departments, intended for the preservation of the UNESCO World Heritage site [2]. - For over two decades, the fee collection process has been inconsistent, with only one scenic area, Black Dragon Pool Park, actively enforcing fee checks [2]. - The historical leniency in fee collection has raised questions about the actual allocation of funds for the preservation of the ancient town [2]. Group 3: Economic Implications and Visitor Experience - The debate continues on whether ancient towns should focus on ticket revenue or consumer spending, with Lijiang's recent shift towards mandatory fees potentially impacting visitor numbers and local economic activity [3][4]. - Other ancient towns have adopted more visitor-friendly policies, such as free entry and incentives for tourists, which may enhance local economic vitality through increased consumer spending [4]. - The long-standing informal approach to fee collection in Lijiang has contributed to its popularity, and the recent changes may alter public perception and market reputation [4].

Core Viewpoint - From August 1, 2023, visitors to Lijiang Ancient Town will be required to pay a maintenance fee of 50 yuan for entry into the core protection area, valid for one year [1][8]. Group 1: Policy Changes - The new maintenance fee is a revision of the 2007 policy, not a new regulation [7]. - The fee has been reduced from 80 yuan to 50 yuan, and the exemption range has been expanded [10]. - The fee will apply to visitors entering major areas including Dajian Ancient Town, Shuhe Ancient Town, and Baisha Ancient Town starting August 1, 2025 [8]. Group 2: Public Reaction - The announcement sparked significant public debate, with some mocking the fee and others expressing understanding if the funds are used for maintenance [3][4][5]. - Many tourists have previously paid maintenance fees indirectly through travel agencies, leading to a lack of awareness about the charges [11][13]. Group 3: Broader Context - The trend of charging maintenance fees is becoming common in tourist cities facing environmental pressures from high visitor numbers [15]. - Examples include Paris charging 5 euros for entry to Notre-Dame and Venice implementing a 5 euro entry fee for day-trippers [16][17]. - The key challenge for Lijiang is whether the visitor experience can justify the fee, as tourists are increasingly cautious about spending [19][21].