Factors Influencing the Development of Food Tourism Destinations: Evidence from China

Abstract

Purpose – This study investigates the critical success factors (CSFs) for Guilin as a food tourism destination, leveraging its rich natural, social, and cultural resources. Methodology/Design/Approach – Employing a comprehensive quantitative approach, this study seeks to uncover the CSFs for the success of a food tourism destination, with Guilin as the case study. The research design incorporates the Delphi method to ensure robust and consensus-driven data collection, laying a solid foundation for empirical analysis. In the quantitative phase, data was collected from a diverse group of stakeholders, including restaurant operators, government officials, service providers, tourists, and residents. The collected data was then analyzed using multiple linear regression (MLR), enabling the identification and hierarchical ordering of the CSFs for Guilin's food tourism sector. Findings – The research unveiled that destination marketing, visitor experience, destination image, stakeholder involvement, core food products, and government support are essential CSFs for the success of a food tourism destination. A conceptual framework specific to Guilin’s food tourism was also developed, offering insights into enhancing food tourism development strategies. Practical Implications – This research distinguishes itself by dissecting Guilin’s natural and social facets through the lens of food tourism, proposing a set of CSFs that influence the success of food tourism destinations. It provides a comprehensive compilation of definitions, driving factors, and challenges in the food tourism sector, aiming to enrich the understanding and perception of the food tourism industry.