Tourism Revenue Research Articles

Environmental concerns and their impact on inbound tourism revenue: does the growth rate of the nation’s matter?

PurposeEnvironmental concerns are gaining traction with every passing day. Moreover, post Covid 19, similar to many sectors, the tourism sector is also trying to revive itself. Theoretically, the environment and tourism complement each other. However, empirical vetting is not adequate. This study is motivated to determine how the environment impacts tourism. In addition, the moderating influence of the growth rate of the nations on the impact of the nations on tourism is also investigated.Design/methodology/approachWe have gathered clear and balanced panel data on tourism and the environment for 106 nations for 10 years. The difficulty in measuring environment status is managed by estimating environment efficiency using Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA).FindingsSurprisingly, we find a significant impact of environmental efficiency on inbound tourism across the nations used in the study. Such findings are rarely observed in the earlier studies as very less studies look for the association of environmental efficiency with tourism. However, the findings are supportive of the principles of the Faro convention and ICOMOS (“International Council on Monuments and Sites”) charter to promote environmental quality for tourism attraction. The current research findings can change the future course of action regarding the environment for tourism. The findings of the study establish financial materiality for the tourism sector. These findings give a boost to the theory of sustainable tourism.Research limitations/implicationsThe study’s inconsistent outcome (as the literature finds significant association) regarding the insignificant influence of GDP growth rate is a limitation of the study. The insignificant association needs to be further investigated. This limitation can be a future scope on the topic.Originality/valueThe authors do not find many studies on the environment’s impact on inbound tourism. In addition, a few studies on the topic, which exist provide contradictory outcomes. Above all, the literature does not observe the moderation of the GDP growth rate on the environment’s impact on inbound tourism. This lack of studies in literature, to the best of our knowledge, is the unique contribution of the current study.

Analysis of the Tourism Revenue Sharing Status at the Aksu-Zhabagly Nature Reserve of Kazakhstan

Sharing tourism-generated revenues with local people has become a popular strategy for implementing sustainability in nature-based tourism destinations globally. Although the local people have received some economic gains from tourism development, there are still some limitations to fair income sharing. These limitations are evident in many underdeveloped countries and lead to a passive situation of local community participation in tourism development. The primary purpose of this article is to determine the level of tourism revenue sharing in the Aksu-Zhabagly tourist destination and, at the same time, to make appropriate recommendations on the remaining issues. To understand the status of tourism revenue sharing, we surveyed the perceptions of 44 nature reserve employees and 66 travel company workers, respectively. The survey results show that although the business operations of tourism organizers do not harm the living environment of the local population, they usually do not spend part of the income from tourism on the common good of the local population. Most residents are unsatisfied with tourism development, and their participation in tourism is also comparatively low. The results also reveal that the comparatively low level of sharing the tourism-associated revenue with local development is the leading indirect cause of residents’ dissatisfaction with the development of the tourism industry. In conclusion, we believe that the results of this study and our recommendations help local authorities understand the importance of removing constraints in the fair distribution of tourism revenues in this tourist destination.

FEATURES OF THE DEVELOPMENT OF MOUNTAIN TOURISM IN THE KYRGYZ REPUBLIC

Purpose: To create a scientific and practical proposal based on the identification of promising areas of development taking into account today's rapid changes in world tourism and the impact of key tourist regions on the development of tourism in Kyrgyzstan. Theoretical reference: Scientific and theoretical materials related to the development of mountain tourism were thoroughly studied and applied while writing the article. Method: Economic and statistical, monographic and comparative approaches were used for the research. Results and Conclusion: Although the mountainous region of the republic has a wide range of natural and recreational resources, tourism revenues have been low. To improve the situation, recommendations based on international experience and scientific research are proposed to improve the situation, which will help in the development of key areas of tourism in Kyrgyzstan. Implications of research: The results of this study can be used by government agencies to formulate policies for the development of mountain tourism, in particular to identify strategic directions and attract foreign investment in promising regional projects. Originality and value: The originality and value of the study is that the findings can be applied to the development of mountain tourism and in other mountain countries in the development of the main directions of this sphere.

Sustainable Tourism Post-Pandemic: Strategies for Reviving Local Economies Through Eco-Friendly Practices

This study explores sustainable tourism strategies for reviving local economies in the post-pandemic era, focusing on the integration of eco-friendly practices. Utilizing a qualitative research approach, the study conducts a comprehensive literature review based on existing academic sources and case studies. The research highlights how the COVID-19 pandemic significantly disrupted the global tourism industry, devastating local economies dependent on tourism revenues. As destinations reopen, the need for sustainable recovery has become a central focus, with emphasis on eco-tourism, responsible travel, and community-centered development. This study examines various strategies that tourism sectors worldwide are implementing to balance economic recovery with environmental sustainability, including promoting low-impact tourism, supporting local businesses, and encouraging tourists to adopt green travel behaviors. Furthermore, it analyzes the role of government policies, industry standards, and community involvement in fostering long-term sustainability in tourism. The findings suggest that sustainable tourism not only helps revitalize local economies but also contributes to environmental conservation and social equity. The study concludes by offering recommendations for policymakers and tourism operators on how to effectively incorporate eco-friendly practices in the recovery process, thus ensuring resilience against future crises.

MARKETING FACTORS OF COMPETITIVENESS MEDITERRANEAN MARKET OF TOURIST SERVICES

The article analyzes the system of marketing factors of the competitiveness of the Mediterranean leisure industry since the promotion of tourist services today becomes impossible without the use of modern technologies. It is noted that the digitalization of marketing communications allows for the formation of unique competitive advantages of the Mediterranean tourism industry through the use of an integrated approach to the most effective combination of classical marketing provisions and the potential of modern technologies in the competitive environment of the tourism industry. Classical marketing techniques and digital technologies offer enormous potential for maximizing tourism revenues, increasing tourism demand, improving the quality of supply and facilitating communication. The influence of marketing elements on the competitiveness of the tourism industry of the Mediterranean countries is evaluated. It has been proven that this influence is uneven and differs according to the destination and the stage of creation and provision and implementation of the tour service. This influence is observed most in the sphere of pricing in Spain and least - in the sphere of tourism product promotion in such European countries as Albania and African countries - Morocco, Algeria and Tunisia. Directions for the analysis of the competitiveness of destinations in the Mediterranean region are proposed, which can be carried out according to different criteria and through different perspectives, such as: customer expectations, tourist satisfaction and service value, tourist and destination motivations, branding, destination attractiveness, destination sustainability and destination value. It is emphasized that, in contrast to classical marketing, modified tourism marketing was formed as a mix that includes seven elements: tourism product, tourism product pricing, distribution of tourism services, tourism promotion, human potential, service provision process and customer service, and which to varying degrees provide competitive advantages of the countries of the Mediterranean basin. It is shown that the competitiveness of the Mediterranean tourism industry has a double structure. Its first element is the process of positioning tourist products on the market of leisure services, the second is the efficiency of the operational activities of tour operators. It has been confirmed that the drivers of the main changes in the market of tourist services of the Mediterranean that have occurred recently are the intensive introduction of information technologies in marketing activities, where the main trends in the development of the leisure industry have become the globalization of the tourist business and the dominance of Internet technologies in the system of promoting tourist services.

Analysis on the relationship between coastal tourism and marine pollution: an empirical analysis of China’s 11 coastal regions

IntroductionCoastal tourism has become an important pillar of economic growth in China's coastal regions, yet no quantitative research has analyzed the relationship between coastal tourism and marine pollution.MethodsThis study, within a multivariate framework, comprehensively examines the impact of coastal tourism on marine pollution by employing various econometric techniques and focusing on four different types of marine pollutant discharges: chemical oxygen demand (COD), petroleum (PET), ammonia nitrogen (NHN), and total phosphorus (TP).Results and discussionPanel cointegration tests confirm a long-term relationship between coastal tourism and these four types of marine pollutant discharges. In the long run, coastal tourism has a significantly negative impact on COD, NHN, and TP. The results of Pooled Mean Group (PMG), Fully Modified Ordinary Least Squares (FMOLS), and Dynamic Ordinary Least Squares (DOLS) estimators show that for every 1% increase in coastal tourism revenue (TOUR), COD decreases by 0.734%, 0.536%, and 0.952% respectively; NHN decreases by 0.746%, 0.340%, and 1.633%; and TP decreases by 5.169%, 0.899%, and 0.334% respectively. However, the impact of coastal tourism on PET is not significant. The Dumitrescu-Hurlin (D-H) panel causality test results indicate different causality patterns between coastal tourism and various marine pollutant discharges. Specifically, there is a bidirectional causality between coastal tourism and COD, NHN, and a unidirectional causality between coastal tourism and PET, TP. Moreover, heterogeneity analysis reveals that coastal tourism does not significantly reduce all marine pollutant discharges in low-and middle-income coastal regions. Furthermore, compared to the central and southern coastal regions, the coastal tourism of northern regions has not significantly reduced marine pollution. This study can provide policymakers with references for developing coastal tourism and reducing marine pollutant discharges.

Enhancing Secondary City Tourism in Thailand: Exploring Revenue Generation, Sustainable Practices, and the Role of Brand Identity

Tourism is a significant contributor to economic development, particularly in countries like Thailand, where primary cities dominate tourism revenue. However, secondary cities, despite their rich cultural, natural, and historical assets, remain underexplored. This study addresses the need to promote secondary city tourism in Thailand by exploring the key factors influencing tourist decision-making and satisfaction. Using a mixed-methods approach, including qualitative and quantitative research, the study investigates elements such as perceived value, cultural and natural attractions, and brand identity that shape tourist preferences and behaviors. Findings indicate that strategic promotion and infrastructure development in secondary cities, along with a well-defined brand identity, can enhance tourist satisfaction and revisit intentions. The research highlights the significance of regional-level attributes, suggesting that region-specific marketing strategies could play a pivotal role in promoting secondary city tourism. This study aims to provide actionable insights to stakeholders for sustainable tourism development, community revenue generation, and equitable distribution of tourism benefits across Thailand’s diverse regions.

Utilizing Static Pricing to Boost Room Revenue in Archipelago International Indonesia Hotels Group

Purpose: This research examines the implementation of static rates to increase room revenue at Archipelago International Indonesia Hotels Group. While the majority of Archipelago International management considers that dynamic rates are more effective at increasing room revenue, the impact of global economic events such as the Covid-19 pandemic, wars, and earthquakes (force majeure) has been underestimated. Static rates can be used to respond to economic downturns induced by these occurrences, which reduce demand. Research methods: This research uses qualitative research methodologies to assess current practices and offer ideal static rate models. It is supported by three concepts and theories: static rates, room revenue, and hotel management. This research also uses tourism economy and revenue management as theoretical foundations. Results and discussion: The findings highlight suboptimal implementation challenges and propose two models at Archipelago International Indonesia Hotels Group: (1) Static Rates Stand Alone: managed by the channel manager for a minimum two-night stay, beneficial for remote or pre-opening hotels, during low occupancy or economic downturns; and (2) Bundle Packages: combining room rates with other services to increase revenue and promote additional facilities. Implication: These models provide consistent pricing, improved forecasting, and increased brand awareness. Implementing these models can help Archipelago International optimize its revenue plans and financial performance.

Can low-carbon city pilot policy boost tourism development? Empirical evidence from China.

As an environmental regulatory tool in achieving green development, the low-carbon city pilot policy (LCCP) considerably influence tourism enhancement. Using China's 261 prefecture-level cities, this paper empirically delve the implication of LCCP to tourism from two tourism dimensions of tourism revenue and tourism arrivals employing the time-varying DID methodology. Results empirically reveal that the LCCP contributes to boosting tourism development, and after undergoing numerous robustness tests, this finding stands. The "arrivals growth effect" of LCCP is stronger than the "revenue improvement effect." Moreover, the impact of LCCP on domestic tourism is more profound than on inbound tourism. Heterogeneity analyses show the boosting impact is more pronounced in third-tier and above cities and non-resource-based cities. Upon further testing its transmission mechanism, we discover that the LCCP raises tourism revenues and arrival levels through industrial structural upgrading and innovation capacity improvement. The study clarifies the theoretical mechanisms and policy effects of LCCP on tourism development, which is valuable for assessing the tourism effects of LCCP and other environmental regulations and exploring the expanding path of sustainable tourism development.

The Spatial–Temporal Evolution and Driving Factors of the Coastal Tourism Economy in China

Tourism has emerged as a pivotal element of China’s economic development, particularly within its coastal cities. This paper presents a comprehensive analysis of China’s coastal city tourism economic development, focusing on 53 coastal cities. Through a meticulous combination of literature analysis and data crawling, a robust database is constructed, encompassing tourism resources and revenues. This study delineates the spatial–temporal evolution pattern of China’s coastal city tourism development and employs geo-detector methods to quantitatively analyze the impact factors driving this evolution. Key findings reveal distinct trends in the coastal tourism economy of China from 2009 to 2019, characterized by spatial stability, similar trends in adjacent spatial units, and localized spatial structures. Notably, factors such as actual foreign investment, the presence of star-rated guesthouses, tourism industry employment, airport activity, and import–export trade volume exert significant influence on the domestic tourism economy. Similarly, tourism employment, airport activity, availability of star-rated hotels, import–export trade, and utilization of foreign capital emerge as influential factors shaping inbound tourism. Policy recommendations emphasize the need for government intervention to optimize tourism development strategies for coastal cities. This entails balancing resource exploitation with environmental protection and enhancing the quality of tourism services, fostering sustainable growth and long-term prosperity.

The Relationship Between International Trade and Tourism Revenues in Türkiye

The tourism industry is a critical sector in Türkiye’s economy and plays a significant role in reducing the country's trade deficit. This research paper presents a comprehensive overview of the tourism industry and international tourism in Türkiye. The research paper conducts an empirical analysis of pertinent variables and investigates the association between international trade and tourism revenues. Utilizing the VAR model with data spanning from 2000 to 2021, the study scrutinizes the linkage between the two variables. Firstly, the study checks the stationarity of the variables, then uses the Johansen cointegration test to detect whether there exists a long-term relationship between the variables. Next, the direction of the relationship is determined through the Toda Yamamoto causality analysis. The results show that there is a long-run relationship between the variables. The results obtained from the causality analysis also show that there is a reciprocal causality relationship between the rate of openness to trade, which is used as an indicator of international trade, and tourism revenues. Finally, the variance decomposition shows that tourism revenues are an important factor in international trade and this effect gradually increases over time.

Assessing the value of harmful algal bloom forecasts in the Pacific Northwest

Abstract Over the past three decades, fisheries and livelihoods on the coasts of Washington and Oregon have been severely impacted by the presence of harmful algal blooms (HABs) that produce domoic acid, a neurotoxin that accumulates in shellfish and endangers public health. Among others, recreational razor clams and commercial Dungeness crab fisheries along the Pacific Northwest (PNW) have been negatively affected, jeopardizing the economies of coastal communities that depend on tourist revenues and income generated through visits of harvesters in the region. The PNW HAB Bulletin, launched in 2008, publishes forecasts on incoming HAB events, which has enabled managers to increase toxin monitoring in high-risk locations and proceed with selected harvesting at safe beaches and delays or closures of fishing seasons, as required. In light of the value of the HAB Bulletin to local managers and communities and the occasional challenges of securing sufficient resources to ensure its continuation, this study attempts to assess the value of information (VOI) for the predictions provided by the Bulletin. Results of the study show that ongoing financial support of the Bulletin is economically justifiable. The value of HAB forecast is positively related to three primary factors: the frequency of HAB events, the precision of forecast, and the number of social and economic sectors benefiting from the forecast. The expected increase in HAB frequency and intensity due to climate change, coupled with advancements in forecasting accuracy through technological development, is anticipated to enhance the value of the forecast program.

The Role of Sustainable Tourism in Enhancing Cultural Heritage Preservation: In-depth Analysis

Sustainable tourism is essential to improving the preservation of cultural property since it encourages ethical travel, helps local communities, and raises money for conservation initiatives. It guarantees the preservation of cultural treasures for future generations while promoting awareness and appreciation of them. In this paper, the relationship between sustainable tourism practice, environmental policies, tourist education, community involvement, tourism revenue allocation, and cultural heritage preservation were evaluated using structural equation modeling (SEM) analysis. Five hypotheses were developed and the dataset includes 232 respondents. A systematic questionnaire with a Likert scale rating was used to evaluate the data. As a result, latent construct validity and reliability were examined, and the structural model evaluated the connections between the constructs in the context of the suggested hypotheses. The structural model revealed that EP, STP, and TE are positively connected to the CHP, providing support for hypothesis 1: Cultural Heritage Preservation and Sustainable Tourism Practice (CHP→STP) and 3:Cultural Heritage Preservation and Environmental Policies (CHP→EP) are well supported and show no significant changes to enhancing heritage preservation.

Spatiotemporal Evolution and Driving Forces of Tourism Economic Resilience in Chinese Provinces

This study focuses on the resilience of tourism economies in Chinese provinces, exploring their spatiotemporal evolution and driving forces as a crucial prerequisite for promoting the high-quality development of China’s tourism industry. We construct a resilience evaluation index system from four dimensions: resistance resilience, recovery resilience, reshaping resilience, and development resilience, using provincial tourism data from 2012 to 2022. The study employs Moran’s Index, kernel density estimation, and GIS technology to investigate the differentiation characteristics, spatial evolution processes, and spatial agglomeration characteristics of provincial tourism economic resilience in China. Finally, the GeoDetector model is used to analyze the driving factors. The findings are as follows: (1) Over time, most provinces and cities in China have shown varying degrees of improvement in tourism economic resilience, with different changes observed across the four dimensions. (2) Spatially, significant differences exist between provinces, with better resilience in the east than in the west and in the south than in the north. (3) Regionally, while no polarization is observed, there is a distinct differentiation between high and low-value areas. (4) Regional linkages indicate the presence of interregional associations in China’s tourism economic resilience, with non-uniform distribution of cold and hot spots. (5) Key driving factors include per capita railway mileage, domestic tourism revenue, the number of travel agencies, and the number of employees in accommodation and catering. Under the backdrop of rapid tourism economic development, improving infrastructure construction and enhancing the comprehensive strength of the tourism industry is vital for boosting tourism economic resilience.

Effects of Marathon Competition on Economic Aspects in Guangzhou City

Background and Aim: In recent years, participation in Chinese marathons has experienced significant growth, with the number of participants rising from thousands to hundreds of thousands, and even millions. This surge underscores the growing economic impact of marathon events on urban economies, as they attract participants and stimulate various related industries. However, this rapid expansion also presents challenges in organizing and managing these events, particularly in ensuring safety, professionalism, and fairness. Materials and Methods: The objective of this study was twofold: first, to measure the direct economic impact of hosting major marathon events, and second, to develop a guideline for hosting such events in Guangzhou city. The research utilized a descriptive survey method, employing questionnaires to gather data from different stakeholders and participants involved in the Guangzhou Marathon. Subjects were a simple random sampling of 341 participants, including college students, social workers, and marathon enthusiasts. The research instrument was questionnaire development, and four separate questionnaires were designed to address different aspects of the research: 1) "Marathon runners wearing shoe survey". 2) "Consumer Survey of Marathon Participants". 3) "Guangzhou Marathon and the Image of Guangzhou". 4). "Investigation on the Impact of Holding a City Marathon on the City Economy". To ensure the validity and reliability of the questionnaires, the following steps were taken: content and structure evaluation by 10 experts in related fields, pilot testing for validity, with an Index of Item-Objective Congruence (IOC) of 1. Data Analysis: The collected data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, including frequency and percentage. Results: 1) guidelines for the economic aspects of hosting the Guangzhou Marathon, based on the POLC (Planning, Organizing, Leading, and Controlling) theory framework, such as planning: conduct economic impact analysis, set objectives, develop an economic plan, and establish partnerships. Organizing: form an economic committee, develop a marketing plan, coordinate with businesses, engage sporting brands, and facilitate temporary employment. Leading: Provide leadership, maintain communication, foster collaboration, ensure regulatory compliance, and Control: Monitor progress, collect data, conduct reviews, implement quality control, and conduct post-event economic impact analysis. 2) Summary of the new knowledge presented in 4 parts: Marathoners' investments were to prioritize mid-high priced running shoes, purchase dedicated running apparel, invest in watches, headphones, and accessories, and optimize training and performance. Economic benefits included enhanced city visibility and image, driving sporting goods sales, attracting tourism and hospitality revenue, and creating new employment opportunities. Social and cultural impacts were to promote sports participation, foster creativity and cultural expression, increase social cohesion, and enhance city vibrancy and global profile. The Guangzhou Marathon's role was to promote sports culture, boost sponsor brand power and recognition, showcase economic development strengths, and provide perceived multifaceted benefits. Conclusion: The data suggests that hosting a large-scale city marathon can bring about various benefits such as economic growth, social engagement, cultural enrichment, and enhanced city branding, making it an appealing event to organize for cities, as indicated by the respondents surveyed.

제주도의 경제 성장과 지속 가능성 - GRDP의 한계와 GPI를 통한 지속 가능성 평가

This study aims to evaluate the comprehensive development level of Jeju Island by analyzing the Genuine Progress Indicator (GPI) across economic, environmental, and social dimensions. To achieve this, the GPI for Jeju Island was calculated for the years 2000 to 2021, and the trends in GRDP and GPI were comparatively analyzed. The results showed that while GRDP generally increased, GPI exhibited periods of decline or stagnation at certain points. Notably, since 2019, the COVID-19 pandemic led to a decrease in tourism revenue, resulting in a decline in GRDP, whereas GPI showed an upward trend. This trend can be attributed to the reduction in environmental pressures and the recovery of natural resources due to the decrease in tourist numbers, and such effects may have a long-term impact on GPI. This study suggests that GPI, as a complementary indicator to GRDP, can be effectively utilized as a policy tool for promoting sustainable development.

The Interaction Effect between Inbound Tourism Revenue and ICT Adoption on Economic Level

The Interaction Effect between Inbound Tourism Revenue and ICT Adoption on Economic Level

루마니아의 두 번째 유럽문화수도 티미쇼아라의 상징과 시사점

Timisoara, the European Capital of Culture 2023, is a city that represents the cultural and historical standards of Romania and Europe, implying the historical diversity of the various ethnic and cultural communities that have lived here for centuries. Timisoara is not only the city where gas lights were installed for the first time in Central and Eastern Europe in 1884, but also the epicenter of the Romanian Revolution in 1989, promoting itself as a city of light with the motto ‘Shine your light-Light up your city! (Luminează oraşul prin tine!)’ This light represents the innovation of diverse national heritage, but also the legacy of the struggle for freedom and democracy. Timisoara has demonstrated its unique cultural identity through various cultural events and special projects that promote urban and infrastructure development, as well as interest in cultural heritage. Timisoara 2023 (TM 2023) has established a cultural program that actively contributes to enhancing Timisoara’s identity, diversity, creativity and cultural potential as an engine for sustainable community development. The main program of TM 2023 consists of three main areas (People, Places, Connections) and one complementary area (Power Station) that implements capacity building. Each major area has a detailed program of specific ‘stations’ and ‘trails’ that host various cultural events, forming a transformative journey in which all areas are organically linked. The preparation and successful hosting of the event not only contributed to the preservation of traditional culture and the aesthetic aspects of the city, but also contributed to the economic development and increased tourism revenue, strengthening international recognition and creating added value in sustainable urban regeneration.

Climate change and tourism demand: Risks for extreme heat?

Extremely high temperatures have become a major hurdle to tourists' experiences in various destinations. In this study, we present the first nationwide estimation of the temperature-tourism response function using a fine-grained panel dataset constructed by matching tourism data and daily meteorological datasets for 280 cities from 2005 to 2019 in China. Results show a non-linear relationship between temperature and tourism employing the temperature bins method, which is not sensitive to response equations. In addition, we conduct a rich heterogeneity analysis in the article to further analyse the effects of other external conditions on the temperature-tourism relationship, including the destination's level of tourism economic development, population, infrastructure development, and tourism resource endowment. We also observed that increasing summer temperatures result in decreased tourism arrivals and revenue, while rising autumn temperatures lead to increased tourism arrivals and revenue. This research contributes to a deeper understanding of the complex relationship between temperature dynamics and tourism patterns, offering insights into destination management and adaptation strategies.

Spatial patterns and their influencing factors for China’s catering industry

The catering industry plays an essential role in providing life services. Understanding its spatial patterns offers insights into the economic, cultural and spiritual image of a society. Especially in urban settings, the catering industry is often considered a key element for improving the competitiveness of cities. With rapid urbanization and economic growth in China, the catering industry has become the main driving force to stimulate China’s service sectors. In this study, we conducted a comprehensive spatial analysis to explore the distribution patterns by calculating kernel density and applying the geographically weighted regression (GWR) model with 4.49 million restaurants across 336 cities in China in 2020. The restaurants were categorized into four types: Chinese restaurants (CRs), Western restaurants (WRs), fast-food restaurants (FFRs), and dessert and drink restaurants (DDRs). We incorporated a diverse set of socio-economic indicators to explore potential causal influences, including population size and density, GDP, etc. Our study revealed a gradual decrease in restaurant density from southeast to northwest China, with high density observed in the Pearl River Economic Delta, Yangtze River Economic Delta, Chongqing, and Chengdu regions. In terms of the potential influencing factors, we observed that in west and southwest regions, density appeared to be more affected by GDP per unit area, total tourism revenue, disposable income per capita of urban residents, and total retail sales of social consumption. While in northeast areas, restaurant density was more affected by total retail sales of social consumption, GDP per unit area, number of urban population, and the proportion of tertiary industry in GDP. These insights serve as a direct scientific foundation for informing the strategic planning of different types of restaurants at municipal, provincial, and regional levels.