Perceived Authenticity and Place Attachment: New Findings from Chinese World Heritage Sites

A groundbreaking study challenges prior assumptions by revealing that perceived authenticity significantly influences place attachment, with distinct effects on its components. Conducted at two UNESCO World Heritage Sites—Kaiping Diaolou and Villages, and the Old Town of Lijiang—this research demonstrates that tourists' perceptions of architectural or intangible heritage authenticity vary in their impact on place attachment. Furthermore, it establishes a strong link between place attachment and loyalty, with place attachment acting as a mediator between perceived authenticity and loyalty. These findings refine our understanding of the dynamics between authenticity and place attachment while offering actionable insights for heritage management and marketing strategies.

Yi, X., Fu, X., So, K. K. F., & Zheng, C. (2021). Perceived Authenticity and Place Attachment: New Findings from Chinese World Heritage Sites. Journal of Hospitality & Tourism Research, 47(5), 800–826. https://doi.org/10.1177/10963480211027629