A Cultural Perspective on Wildlife Tourism in China

Abstract

Wildlife tourism is based on interactions between humans and wildlife. Although it is well understood that differences exist in the relationship in different cultures, existing management models are often based on a scientific approach rather than a cultural approach or an approach that integrates these perspectives. This study concentrates on the social and cultural factors affecting wildlife tourism management through a case study of Monkey Island in Hainan Province, China. Various stakeholders were interviewed about their views on conservation and tourism management. The “differential mode of association” of Chinese culture is used to understand conflicts and harmony in nature conservation and tourism development. It is shown that Chinese people are accustomed to treat wildlife in aesthetic and moral ways. A conservation model that does not take account of these cultural factors is likely to be ineffective. The research establishes and demonstrates the need and potential to study wildlife tourism from a cultural approach.