Developmental Sustainability through Heritage Preservation: Two Chinese Case Studies

Abstract

Cultural heritage is a vital part of a society’s existence. This role has particular relevance for China, with arguably one of the largest stocks of cultural assets, tangible and intangible, in the world. Recognizing the tension between cultural preservation and economic development as a general context, this paper examines the specific additional challenges China faces in its rush towards economic development. In providing both generic and China-specific contexts, this paper has as its objective to understand how Chinese policy-makers, both central and local, attempt to resolve the contest between cultural preservation and economic development, specifically rural rejuvenation. Through two case studies—of Lijiang in Yunnan province and Rizhao in Shandong province—this paper shows contrasting strategies to leverage local intangible cultural assets. Comparing these strategies reveals both the advantages and challenges inherent in each. A successful strategy captures the benefits of cultural tourism while minimizing its costs.

Exploring the Relationship of Image Formation on Tourist Satisfaction and Loyalty: Evidence From China

“…Tourism can be categorized by the motives of the tourists in the destinations. The motivation for attracting tourism may result from different cultural endorsements, natural reserves, and maritime features ( Song et al, 2020 ). The socio-cultural attributes of a country provide added value for the tourism industry ( Moscardo, 2015 ).…”

“…China is well-endowed in terms of cultural heritage, with centuries of historical background ( Song et al, 2020 ). In 1986, the Chinese government designated tourism as a broad economic activity with the explicit goal of launching the modernization program of the country.…”

“…In 2003, China was granted protection under the UNESCO International Convention for the Preservation of Intangible Cultural Heritage ( Yang et al, 2019 ). Meanwhile, the Chinese government maintained its focus on recognizing new cultural areas through legislation ( Song et al, 2020 ).…”

“…The development of tourist destinations in China may have economic and socio-cultural effects on the local communities. These effects may benefit the communities or act as a barrier to accepting tourism ( Song et al, 2020 ). Apart from economic benefits, local communities are also attracted to the commoditization of cultures from minority ethnic groups propagated through ethnic tourism ( Towoliu et al, 2020 ).…”

Evaluating the Authenticity of Naxi Music in Three Stages from the Perspective of Naxi Musicians: An Application of Lacan’s Mirror Stage Theory

“…In this paper, we examine the changes in ancient Naxi music before/after Lijiang became a popular tourist destination. We chose to examine ancient Naxi music (Naxi guyue) because it can reveal the contradictions between tourism development and cultural heritage protection that are also relevant to the sustainable tourism of many other tourist destinations in China [9,10].…”