The authenticity perception of a heritage sporting event: a comparison between residents and non-residents

Abstract

ABSTRACT Purpose This study explored authenticity perceptions in a heritage sporting event, comparing residents and non-residents (i.e. international tourists) using consumption capital theory. Methodology Focusing on Sumo wrestling in Japan, data were collected from 845 Japanese residents through an online survey and 245 non-residents via an on-site survey at the Ground Sumo Tournament in Tokyo. Findings Mann–Whitney’s U test revealed that non-residents perceive greater authenticity than residents. Ordinary Least Square regression analyses examined different factors influencing authenticity perceptions between residents and non-residents. Residents’ prior knowledge significantly affected their perceived authenticity, displaying a U-shaped curve, while non-residents’ did not. Past experience did not impact authenticity perceptions for either group. Additionally, this study highlighted the impacts of consumer demographics on authenticity perceptions. Practical Implication Including residents in tourism commodification process of sport heritage events is stressed to prevent tourists’ misunderstanding of destinations. Research Contribution Our findings contribute to applying consumption capital theory in sport heritage tourism. The observed U-shaped relationship between residents’ prior knowledge and authenticity perception provides empirical support, aligning with suggestions for a non-linear relationship based on the law of diminishing marginal utility. Originality The results stimulate discussions on sport and tourism development within sport heritage, extending to UNESCO’s Traditional Sports and Games initiative.