Cultural communication and diversity along the Grand Canal of China: a case study of folk songs in intangible cultural heritage

Research on the Grand Canal reveals that folk songs along its route exhibit a distinct spatial distribution pattern characterized by 'distribution along the river, two cores and two belts.' This pattern is influenced significantly by natural factors such as water systems and landforms, as well as regional cultural elements. Unlike mountainous areas in western China, the Grand Canal basin's economic development and population mobility contribute to a diversified yet unified musical culture. The study, combining musicology, geography, sociology, and spatial analysis, underscores the importance of integrating folk songs into local social and economic activities for their preservation and development.

Li, L. (2023). Cultural communication and diversity along the Grand Canal of China: a case study of folk songs in intangible cultural heritage. Heritage Science, 11(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s40494-023-00911-w