Is the Yuyuan Lantern Festival still worth it now that it charges an entrance fee?

🌟 I visited the Yuyuan Lantern Festival the other day, just like I do every year. This year, they started charging an entrance fee of CNY 50 per person, which isn't cheap. Since I go every year, I didn't pay the fee. 🏮 If you go before 4 pm, it's still free. This year, there are security guards and metal detectors at the entrance. There are just as many people as in previous years. 🌸 Look up, or you'll miss the pink flowers. The lanterns are just as beautiful during the day. 🌳 The big tree is quite impressive. 🐍 The big snake is kind of cute. 🔮 There are the most lanterns on the way to the Nine-turn Bridge, but it's blocked off. Maybe you have to pay to see it after the lanterns are lit. 🐲 I don't think it's any better than last year's dragon. There are definitely fewer people now that it costs money, but some people still waited half an hour on the Nine-turn Bridge. Didn't I go on a weekday last year? 👉🏻 So if you haven't been before, there's no need to go now. 💸 If money's no object, ignore me!