门票经济 (menpiao jingji): Ticket economy

According to media reports, since the beginning of the year more than 20 domestic scenic spots in seven regions have raised their entry ticket prices, with some of them violating the regulations covering such price adjustments. Additionally, in some places the ticket revenues haven't been used to maintain the scenic spots, but rather spent on local government projects not related to the tourist attractions.

High ticket prices are common for China's scenic spots. According to a study by the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, the average ticket price of all 186 5A scenic spots in China is about 112 yuan ($18), and in peak season some scenic spots charge more than 200 yuan for admission.

Many places with sightseeing resources are highly dependant on ticket revenues, while some local governments charge high entry ticket prices for their scenic spots due to the uniqueness of scenic resources.

High ticket prices are not only against the interests of tourists, but also local economies, because they restrict tourists' consumption. Tourists that pay a high price for tickets to enter scenic spots will naturally reduce their consumption in other areas, which is not conducive to the development of local tourism industries.