Spatial Distribution and Determinants of Convalescence Climate Tourist Attraions in Sichuan, China

Abstract

This study analyses the distribution pattern, directionality, and regional aggregation characteristics of W-CCR, S-CCR, and Y-CCR in Sichuan Province, using POI (Point of Interest) data from 538 Convalescent Climate Resorts (CCR) and daily data from 156 national meteorological stations from 1991 to 2020. The factors that influence the spatial distribution of CCR are discussed from the perspectives of climate, natural environment, and human society. The data suggests that CCR is concentrated along the southern edge of the basin, the eastern side of the Hengduan Mountains at the border of the basin and plateau, and the Anning River Valley in the Panxi region, following a northwest-southeast orientation. However, the degree and pattern of aggregation vary among different types of CCR. The CCRs that avoid cold have the highest centrality and are mainly located in the Panxi region, which is a rare convalescent climate resource in Sichuan. The CCRs that avoid heat and those for general convalescence have a wider distribution range and strong directionality. Their hotspots are distributed in the northeastern, southwestern, and southern parts of the basin, as well as most regions of the Panxi area. The development of CCR is influenced by various factors, including convalescent climate resources, urbanization, economic development levels, population size, and policy guidance. This study aims to explore local climate resources and promote the transformation of climate resource advantages into tourism economic development advantages.