A local tourism bureau is defending a new toll on one of China's most scenic roads after drivers complained..

The tourism bureau in Zhangbei county, Hebei province, said on Tuesday that the 50 yuan ($7.70) per-person charge introduced on May 1 is both reasonable and lawful.

It said money collected from tourists driving Grass Skyline, which is known as "China's Route 66", will be used for maintenance and environmental protection.