Cultural heritage tourism development in Panyu District, Guangzhou: community perspectives on pride and preservation, and concerns for the future

Abstract

ABSTRACT This exploratory study observed local resident views on cultural heritage tourism (CHT) development in the Panyu District of Guangzhou, a setting synonymous with Lingnan cultural heritage sites. Using semi-structured interviews with Panyu residents between November 2018 and February 2019, it was reported that many were in support of CHT growth and believed that it had yielded positive social impacts despite an absence of formal community involvement in the genesis of CHT. The most cited benefits included a heightened sense of community pride and an increased awareness of the need to preserve Lingnan culture. However, whilst most residents exhibited supportive attitudes, others suggested that emergent negative impacts were now apparent, including increasing volumes of tourists and the ‘mobility paradox’ of traffic congestion they presented during ‘Golden Week’ holidays. Several participants suggested that these issues could eventually lead to local community opposition and a demand for engagement with local government authorities. Thus, this study underscores the importance of engaging local residents in situ due to rapid tourism growth and the implications of Golden Weeks on local communities that neighbour CHT sites. These findings will be of value to policymakers and other tourism stakeholders involved in developing and managing growing CHT attractions.