Exploring the Spatial Distribution of ICH by Geographic Information System (GIS)

Abstract

Exploring the spatial distribution of intangible cultural heritage (ICH) by geographic information system (GIS) is a new perspective. It can help to identify the laws and characteristics of the formation and evolution of ICH to further support the development of protection. This paper takes Shaanxi Province as the research area to analyse and identify the spatial distribution characteristics by mathematical statistics using the nearest neighbour index (NNI) and kernel density estimation (KDE). The results show 1699 ICH items of Shaanxi distributed with obvious geographic characteristics: the geospatial distribution is not uniform; the aggregate spatial distribution pattern demonstrates that ICH has strong spatial dependence; all the high-density core areas and sub-high-density core areas are centralized around Guanzhong area; and the ICH items are relatively dense in specific geographical conditions (plain and mountainous areas with an elevation between 160 m and 800 m; plains and valleys at the confluence of rivers or areas within 10 km of the river; and semi-humid climate regions). We can conclude that the geographic environment is the most fundamental and important factor affecting ICH, indirectly affecting its generation, inheritance, and distribution through regional history, culture, and humanity for a long time.