Development of sustainable cultural heritage tourism in China : a comparative study of ancient towns in Lijiang and Chengdu

A comparative study of Lijiang Old Town and China’s Lane in Chengdu reveals that while China’s Lane outperforms Lijiang in sustainable cultural heritage tourism development due to stronger government guidance and segregation systems, both sites face declining cultural authenticity primarily caused by the displacement of indigenous populations and disruption of local community networks. The research underscores the need for governments to shift from dominant control to supportive guidance roles, adopt effective right segregation management, and establish comprehensive assessment mechanisms to ensure long-term sustainability. It also highlights the critical importance of preserving cultural authenticity and local community structures as foundational elements for sustainable heritage tourism.

Wang, S. Development of sustainable cultural heritage tourism in China : a comparative study of ancient towns in Lijiang and Chengdu. https://doi.org/10.5353/th_b5131735