The contribution of national parks to human health and well-being: Visitors' perceived benefits of Wuyishan National Park

Abstract

The impact of the park's natural landscape, ecological services, and available activities and facilities had a positive effect on participants' physical health, mental well-being, and social relationships. A questionnaire survey was conducted to evaluate how national parks affect visitor health and well-being in China's Wuyishan National Park. Six park features that significantly influenced participants' perceptions of their park visit, namely 1) refreshing aromatic notes of natural and floral scents (smell); 2) transcendent horizons yielding sunrises, sunsets, and starry skies (sight); 3) pleasing light patterns and sun-dappled areas (sight); 4) a comfortable cool and temperate climate (feel); 5) stimulating recreational facilities that promote physical activities (activity); and 6) convenient outdoor amenities that enhance moments of leisure (relaxation). Among the participants' responses, “convenient outdoor amenities that enhance moments of leisure” had the most significant impact on physical and mental health recovery. “Stimulating recreational facilities that promote physical activities” had the greatest impact on the improvement of participants' social relationships. Impact varied according to the age and occupation of the respondents. Groups of urban residents that had spent 2–3 days in the park also had positive responses to the park experience.