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Journal of Geographical Sciences >

2024 , Vol. 34 >Issue 2: 309 - 328

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11442-024-2206-2

Research Articles

Tourism development potential and obstacle factors of cultural heritage: Evidence from traditional music in Xiangxi

  • ZHANG Xianyong , 1 ,
  • PENG Baofa 2 ,
  • ZHOU Lulu 3 ,
  • LU Chunyang 4 ,
  • WANG Yali 2 ,
  • LIU Rui 5 ,
  • XIANG Hui , 2, 6, *
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  • 1. College of Music and Dance, Hunan University of Arts and Science, Changde 415000, Hunan, China
  • 2. College of Geography and Tourism, Hunan University of Arts and Science, Changde 415000, Hunan, China
  • 3. College of Geographical Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
  • 4. College of Surveying and Mapping and Urban Spatial Information, Henan University of Urban Construction, Pingdingshan 467036, Henan, China
  • 5. College of Tourism Management, Chaohu University, Hefei 238000, China
  • 6. Institute of Green Low-Carbon Development, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
*Xiang Hui (1982-), PhD, specialized in cultural resource management. E-mail:

Zhang Xianyong (1978-), PhD Candidate, specialized in tourism development of traditional music. E-mail:

Received date: 2023-02-21

  Accepted date: 2023-10-23

  Online published: 2024-02-06

Supported by

Project of Hunan Provincial Social Science Achievement Evaluation Committee(XSP2023GLC023)

Excellent Youth Program of the Education Department of Hunan Province(22B0692)

National Natural Science Fundation of China(41971191)

National Natural Science Fundation of China(42171213)

Project of Hunan University of Arts and Science(22BSQD15)

Project of Henan Philosophy and Social Sciences(2022BJJ026)

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Abstract

Traditional music is an important component of cultural heritage. However, studies have scarcely explored the tourism development potential and the obstacle factors of traditional music. This study takes Xiangxi as the research site, constructs an evaluation index system, and utilizes survey and geographical methods. The major research results are as follows: First, the average potential of resource endowment, tourism industry development, and socio-economic conditions are 0.28, 0.36, and 0.24, respectively. The potential of resource endowment is higher in the west and lower in the east, that of tourism industry development is higher in the north and south and lower in the center, and that of socio-economic conditions is higher in the south and lower in the north. Second, the comprehensive potential is 0.29, which is higher in the northwest and southwest regions. Coordination in most administrative units is at a medium level, and most regions have obvious advantages in resource endowment. Third, the primary obstacle factor is socio-economic conditions (39.21%), followed by resource endowment (30.73%) and tourism industry development (30.06%). The administrative units can be classified into four groups: socio-economic condition obstacle, resource endowment and tourism industry development obstacles, resource endowment and socio-economic condition obstacles, and tourism industry development and socio-economic condition obstacles. The highest priority goals for Xiangxi involve economic development and the integration of modern technologies to stimulate passenger flow. For regions with limited traditional music items (eastern area of Xiangxi), tourism development should be restrained and other resources with stronger inherent advantages should be exploited. This study explored the quantification of traditional music tourism potential, representing a novel breakthrough in this field of research. The indicator system and research methods used in this study can provide guidance and methodological references for cultural heritage research. The suggestions proposed in this article contribute to the rational development and effective protection of cultural heritage resources and the healthy development of the tourism industry.

Key words： cultural heritage; tourism development potential; obstacle factors; traditional music; Xiangxi

Cite this article

ZHANG Xianyong , PENG Baofa , ZHOU Lulu , LU Chunyang , WANG Yali , LIU Rui , XIANG Hui . Tourism development potential and obstacle factors of cultural heritage: Evidence from traditional music in Xiangxi[J]. Journal of Geographical Sciences, 2024 , 34(2) : 309 -328 . DOI: 10.1007/s11442-024-2206-2

1 Introduction

Traditional music is an important component of cultural heritage. It is unique and regional, and has excellent potential for tourism development. Tourism development is also crucial for protecting and capitalizing on traditional music. Therefore, research on tourism development of traditional music has profound significance. It helps address the issue of lacking successors, promotes inheritance and protection, and injects vitality. In addition, research on tourism development can expand its market, realize its value, and integrate it into modern life.
Many scholars have explored the tourism development of cultural heritage from the following four perspectives: impact, research methods, evaluation systems, and empirical cases. In terms of impact, the tourism development of cultural heritage has been shown to generate social (Barnes, 2003) and economic effects (Amin and Thrift, 2007; Gibson, 2012). Studies have found that tourism development helps improve living standards (Zhao et al., 2022) and reduce poverty (Mitchell, 2000; Luo and Bao, 2019). It also generates various economic benefits (Mc and Linda, 2000; Thrift, 2000) and is vital for maintaining livelihoods (James, 2007; Ma et al., 2021). Various approaches have been applied in previous studies, such as literature analysis (Mccarthy, 2005; Fan et al., 2022), multi-index analysis (Ma et al., 2021; Zou et al., 2021), and investigation and interviews (Liang and Chan, 2018; Lonardi et al., 2020). For the evaluation systems, a number of indicators have been used, including socio-economic factors (e.g., local economics, science and technology), resources (e.g., cultural preservation status, cultural confidence, and suitability of development and utilization) (Lu et al., 2016), and demand factors (e.g., visitor structure and consumption, inheritors’ cultural mentality, and protection awareness of residents) (Lu et al., 2016; Zou et al., 2021). In terms of empirical cases, various studies have been conducted in different regions to analyze these different aspects. For example, a study of a village in southern China (Luo and Bao, 2019) found that tourism development may lead to the transformation of production means, highlighting the importance of support initiatives and proper supervision (Harrington, 2018). A study in Bhutan (Suntikul, 2018) concluded that while cultural heritage helps attract tourists, tourism influx may also alter a region’s cultural heritage.
While the tourism development of cultural heritage has increasingly garnered widespread research interest (Jeon et al., 2016), traditional music has rarely been examined (Zhang et al., 2022), with a few exceptions (Min et al., 2020; Rudan and Stipanovic, 2021; Song and Yuan, 2021). For example, Song and Yuan (2021) found that commercialized and diversified traditional music styles have an indirect effect on its dissemination. Rudan and Stipanovic (2021) argued that traditional music is a unique tourism resource; however, its value has not been effectively explored. They called for more effective management methods, such as developing cultural and creative products and using new media and technologies. Min et al. (2020) concluded that music could induce tourists’ emotions, affect behavioral intentions, and stimulate emotional experiences. They argued that music that matches the environment could help tourism development. Many of these studies have focused on the interaction between tourism and music resources and the development measures of music resources. However, few studies have explored the tourism development potential and obstacle factors of traditional music. Moreover, the major methods used are research methods or field surveys, which are simple and effective, but cannot show spatial differences (Qiu et al., 2020; Williams and McHenry, 2020). Geographical spatial analysis methods can compensate for the above defects (Last, 2012; Kowalewski, 2021; Zhang et al., 2021). Therefore, it is important to combine research methods with geographical technologies.
This study takes Xiangxi, a minority area with rich traditional music items in Hunan province, China, as the research site, to answer the following questions:
1) How much is the potential for tourism development of traditional music in Xiangxi? What is its spatial difference?
2) What are the major obstacles restricting tourism development?
3) What measures can be adopted to maximize the tourism development potential?

2 Theoretical framework and research methods

2.1 Theoretical framework

This research covers five key aspects: theoretical analysis, research design, development potential, obstacle factors, and suggestions (Figure 1). First, it begins with a literature analysis on the tourism development of cultural heritage and traditional music. Second, the research design encompasses the research area, indicator system, data, and methods. Third, this study evaluates the indicators’ and overall tourism potential of traditional music in Xiangxi. Fourth, this research investigates obstacle factors and classifies obstacle types. Finally, this research proposes recommendations to enhance the tourism development potential of traditional music in Xiangxi.
Figure 1 Logical framework of the study

2.2 Research area

The study site is Xiangxi, Hunan province, central China (Figure 2), which is known for its ethnically rich and diverse cultural heritage. Xiangxi is the gathering place of two ethnic minorities (Miao and Tujia), and its unique civilization has bred a rich and diverse cultural heritage. Xiangxi has multiple traditional music items at various levels. There are 26 traditional music items in Xiangxi; among them, 5 are national, 8 are provincial, and 13 are municipal. In terms of space (Figure 2a), Jishou has the largest number and highest level of traditional music, followed by Longshan. Since 2015, Xiangxi has implemented a comprehensive tourism development strategy, and the tourism development of traditional music has faced new opportunities and challenges. Many traditional music items (e.g., Tujia Douzi and Miao folk songs) have been developed as tourism experience projects. However, the tourism development of traditional music in Xiangxi has encountered numerous problems, such as a lack of supporting facilities, insufficient development depth, and a scarce market. Furthermore, Xiangxi has mountainous and steep terrain (Figure 2b), which restrict the exchange, flow, and dissemination of traditional music. These issues affect the value realization of traditional music resources. Therefore, Xiangxi was chosen as the case site, as it is typical and representative.
Figure 2 Schematic diagram of the research area (Xiangxi, Hunan, China)
Following the guidance and recommendations of previous studies (Fitzgerald and Reis, 2016; Chaney, 2017; Farsani et al., 2017), 3 primary and 16 secondary indicators are used in the evaluation system. The primary indicators are resource endowment, tourism industry development, and socio-economic conditions (Table 1).
Table 1 Evaluation index system for traditional music tourism development potential
Primary indicators Secondary indicators Interpretation of indicators Attribute Weight
Resources
endowment		 Structure (X1) For traditional music with 3 levels, assign 3; traditional music with only 2 levels, assign 2; traditional music with only 1 level, assign 1;
no traditional music, assign 0		 + 0.0578
Reputation (X2) National traditional music = 3; provincial traditional music = 2; municipal traditional music = 1 + 0.0787
Richness (X3) Number of traditional music (items) + 0.0725
Showability (X4) Is it suitable for stage performance (yes = 1, no = 0) + 0.0734
Experience (X5) Is it suitable for visitors participation (yes = 1, no = 0) + 0.0825
Target tourists (X6) Mass tourists = 1, specific tourists = 0 + 0.0734
Tourism
industry
development		 Star hotels (X7) Number of star hotels + 0.0329
Tourist organizations (X8) Number of travel agencies + 0.0878
Tourist accommodations (X9) Number of beds + 0.0629
Tourists (X10) Number of tourists (104 person) + 0.0751
Tourism status (X11) Tourism income/GDP (%) + 0.0420
Socio-economic conditions Population density (X12) Total population/Total area (person/km2) + 0.0278
GDP per capita (X13) RMB (yuan) + 0.0779
Park and green land (X14) Area of park and green land/ total population (m2) + 0.0778
Traffic accessibility (X15) Road area per capita (m2) + 0.0775

Note: X2, X4, X5, and X6 are the accumulated results for traditional music items.

(1) Resource endowment
Resource endowment is the fundamental condition for tourism development (Ma et al., 2021), and the taste, level (Mafalda and Luis, 2018; Ma et al., 2021), and exploitability (Wang et al., 2020) of resources are important factors. Therefore, structure (X1), reputation (X2), and richness (X3) were chosen to reflect the taste and level of traditional music, and showability (X4), experience (X5), and target tourists (X6) were selected to reflect its tourism exploitability.
(2) Tourism industry development
Tourism industry development reflects the soft environment for traditional music tourism (Luo and Bao, 2019). Passenger reception facilities and the tourism situations (Bascom, 2001; Zou et al., 2021) are important aspects. Accordingly, five indicators are selected. Among them, star hotels (X7), tourist organizations (X8), and tourist accommodations (X9) reflect the status of passenger reception facilities, whereas tourists (X10) and tourism status (X11) reflect the tourism situation.
(3) Socio-economic conditions
Socio-economic conditions serve as external factors that influence traditional music tourism (Mc and Linda, 2000; Suntikul, 2018). The consumer market (Porto and Espinola, 2019), residents’ quality of life (Jeon et al., 2016; Lu et al., 2016; Porto and Espinola, 2019), and transportation conditions (Yao et al., 2021) all have a significant impact. Population density (X12) and GDP per capita (X13) determine the tourism consumption market and consumption capacity (Porto and Espinola, 2019), respectively. Moreover, park and green land (X13) and transportation (X14) were chosen to reflect the residents’ quality of life and transportation conditions.

2.4 Data sources

Qualitative data (resource endowment) and quantitative data (tourism industry development and socio-economic conditions) were used in this study. Traditional music data were obtained from the Culture and Broadcasting Bureau of Xiangxi (http://whlygdj.xxz.gov.cn/). X1 (structure), X2 (reputation), and X3 (richness) were evaluated according to the status of traditional music items, whereas X4 (showability), X5 (experience), and X6 (target tourists) were scored by five experts. Data on tourism industry development and socio-economic conditions were acquired from the Statistical Yearbook and Statistical Bulletin of Xiangxi (2019).

2.5 Research methods

2.5.1 Evaluation methods for tourism development potential

(1) Delphi method
The delphi method, which is used to evaluate X4, X5, and X6, comprises three stages. First, five experts primarily engaged in music or cultural heritage research were interviewed regarding the rationality and scientificity of the three questions (see Table 1 for details). Second, the experts were consulted on the above three questions to quantify X4, X5, and X6. Finally, the quantification results based on the expert opinions were accumulated and standardized according to the administrative units. After this process, X4, X5, and X6 were between 0 and 1.
(2) Entropy weight method
The entropy weight method is an objective assignment method. Given the advantages of compatibility and scientificity (Guo et al., 2018; Zhang et al., 2020), the entropy weight method has been widely used in various fields (Pan et al., 2015; Yin and Ren, 2017). It was used in this study to calculate the weights using the following process.
First, the extreme value method was used, and the formula is as follows:
$X_{i j}^{r}=\frac{X_{i j}-\min \left(X_{j}\right)}{\max \left(X_{j}\right)-\min \left(X_{j}\right)}$
Where $X_{i j}^{\prime}$ is the standardized value of index j in region i; Xij is the original value; and max (Xj) and min (Xj) are the maximum and minimum values of index j, respectively.
Second, the information entropy (Hj) was calculated using the following formulas:
$H_{j}=-K \sum_{1}^{n} f_{i j} \ln f_{i j}$
$f_{i j}=\frac{X_{i j}}{\sum_{1}^{n} X_{i j}}$
$K=\frac{1}{\ln n}$
where n is the number of research units.
Third, the weight (Wj) was calculated using the expression
$W_{j}=H_{j} / \sum_{n}^{j=1} H_{j}$
(3) Multifactor comprehensive index method
The multifactor comprehensive index method was used to calculate the potential according to the standardized value and the weight. The greater the value is, the higher the potential will be. The potential of the indicators (Q) was calculated using to the following formula:
$Q=\sum W_{i} Q_{i}$
(4) Statistical analysis methods
The coordination (σ) was calculated using the following formula:
$\sigma=\sqrt{\frac{N}{\sum(Q-\bar{Q})^{2}}} \times 100 \%$
where Q is the value of one indicator, $\bar{Q}$ is the average value of all indicators, and N is the number of indicators.
The dominance (S) reflected the difference in the indicators, and was calculated using the following formula:
$S=\frac{|Q|_{\max }}{\sum|Q|}$
The higher the value of S, the greater the diversity, and the indicators tend to be uniform. In contrast, when the value of S is lower, the indicators tend to vary.
Areas where tourism development potential exceeded the average value were defined as hot areas. Among them, the non-hot areas are the areas where no indicator exceeds the average value, one-hot areas are those where one indicator exceeds the average value; and other hot areas can be inferred from the above two.

2.5.2 Obstacle model

The obstacle degree indicates the restriction extent of the factors. The higher the obstacle degree is, the stronger the influence will be (Chen and Liang, 2019). The obstacle model (Qi) was constructed according to previous studies (Ge et al., 2017):
$Q_{i}=\frac{\left(1-Y_{i j}\right) W_{j}}{\sum\left(1-Y_{i j}\right) W_{j}} \times 100 \%$
where (1-Yij) is the gap between index i and its target (1).

2.5.3 Geospatial analysis methods

The spatial analysis module of ArcGIS 10.2 was used to visualize the research results.

3 Results and analysis

3.1 Tourism development potential of traditional music

3.1.1 Indicators’ potential

(1) Potential of resource endowment
The average potential of resource endowment is 0.28. Meanwhile, it has two cores and is higher in the west and lower in the east (Figure 3). The cores are Jishou in the center and Longshan in the northwest. The lower and lowest potential regions are concentrated in the west and east, respectively. Resource endowment in western Xiangxi, which serves as the core traditional music area, has prominent advantages. In contrast, the resource endowment in the eastern part of Xiangxi is not favorable and has limited potential for tourism development.
Figure 3 Potential of resource endowment (RE) and its indicators in Xiangxi

Note: the tourism development potential of traditional music is divided into five levels, lowest (0-0.2), lower (0.2-0.4), medium (0.4-0.6), higer (0.6-0.8), highest (0.8-1), and the same below.

In terms of “X1, structure” (Figure 3a), the two cores (Jishou and Longshan) have a large number and good structure of traditional music. The core regions have national, provincial and municipal traditional music items, whereas other regions have incomplete structures. “X2, reputation” is highest in Jishou, followed by Longshan and Baojing (Figure 3b). Meaning, more national or provincial traditional music items are located in Jishou, Longshan, and Baojing. For “X3, richness” (Figure 3c) and “X6, target tourists” (Figure 3f), the values are higher in the northwest and lower in the southeast, with the highest potential in Jishou. The categories and potential visitors for traditional music items differ significantly between the northwest and southeast, and Jishou has advantages in both aspects. “X4, showability” is higher in the west and lower in the east, and the highest potential appears in Jishou, which is consistent with the characteristics of resource endowment (Figure 3d). For “X5, experience”, significant differences are found between the northern and southern areas (Figure 3e). In the north, the values are higher in the west and lower in the east, whereas in the south, the values are higher in the center and lower in the surrounding areas.
(2) Potential of tourism industry development
The average potential of tourism industry development is 0.36, which is higher in the north and south and lower in the center (Figure 4). The highest potential areas are distributed in the southwest (Fenghuang and Jishou); whereas the medium potential areas are distributed in the northeast. The lowest and lower areas are distributed in the southeast and northwest, respectively. The potential in Luxi, Guzhang, and Baojing is the lowest, indicating insufficient tourism development capacities. Therefore, extra support from local governments is needed, particularly in these areas, and the internal environment requires considerable improvement.
Figure 4 Potential of tourism industry development (TID) and its indicators in Xiangxi
For “X7, star hotels”, the values are higher in the north and south and lower in the center (Figure 4a), which reflects the spatial difference in tourist reception capacity to some extent. For “X8, tourist organizations”, the overall situation in Xiangxi is not good (Figure 4b), except for some regions in the southwest (e.g., Fenghuang, Jishou) and northwest (e.g., Longshana). In addition, Fenghuang has the most travel agencies and the highest number of developed tourism industry. For “X9, tourist accommodations” (Figure 4c), “X10, tourists” (Figure 4d), and “X11, tourism status” (Figure 4e), their distributions are consistent with that of “X7, star hotel”, which is higher in the north and south and lower in the center. These indicators have obvious advantages in Jishou and Longshan, and there are stronger tourist reception capacities (more star hotels), better accommodations (more than 30,000 beds), more visitors (more than 15 billion a year), and higher tourism income (accounting for more than 80% of GDP).
(3) Potential of socio-economic conditions
The average value of socio-economic conditions is 0.24, and it is higher in the south and lower in the north (Figure 5); its core areas are in the south. The potential in the southern regions shows a decreasing spatial trend from the administrative center (Jishou) to the periphery, whereas that of the northern regions has little variability. Jishou serves as the political center, resulting in a dense population, excellent transportation facilities, and considerable policy advantages. These features lead to a superior socio-economic situation. Areas with lower potential are Huayuan, Fenghuang, and Guzhang. These areas have convenient transportation and are close to Jishou, contributing to their social and economic conditions. Areas with the lowest social and economic potential often exhibit inconvenient transportation systems, remoteness from administrative centers, or a combination of both factors.
Figure 5 Potential for socio-economic conditions (SEC) and its indicators in Xiangxi
“X12, population density” is higher in the south and lower in the north (Figure 5a), which is consistent with socio-economic conditions. In this context, Xiangxi’s terrain is lower in the south and higher in the north; its administrative center is located in the south. With regard to “X13, GDP per capita” (Figure 5b) and “X14, park and green land” (Figure 5c), both indicators are at a low level. Jishou has the highest GDP per capita at 53,766 yuan, whereas Huayuan has the highest park and green area per capita at 31 km2. For “X15, traffic accessibility”, the values are higher in the center (Figure 5d), indicating that more visitors flow into the central regions.

3.1.2 Comprehensive potential

(1) Spatial pattern of comprehensive potential
The average comprehensive potential is 0.29; the values are higher in the northwest and southwest (Figure 6), where considerable economic benefits can be transformed. Jishou has the highest potential, followed by Fenghuang, Huayuan, and Longshan. Jishou is a core area for various reasons. First, Jishou has the highest number and best structure of traditional music items in Xiangxi, with three national, two provincial, and four municipal items. Second, as the administrative center, Jishou has political, cultural, and economic advantages, which encourage the city’s socio-economic development and stimulate tourism demand.
Figure 6 Spatial pattern of comprehensive potential for traditional music in Xiangxi
(2) Coordination and dominance of the potential
Regarding coordination (Figure 7a), a few higher coordination areas exist, which are scattered in the southern regions (e.g., Luxi and Huayuan). Five medium coordination regions (the largest number) are distributed throughout Xiangxi. Regions classified as lower coordination accounted for only one (Fenghuang). Therefore, the coordination of tourism development potential for traditional music items in most administrative units of Xiangxi is at a medium level. This phenomenon is mainly attributed to the remote geographical location and inconvenient transportation, causing a structural imbalance in the indicators (rich traditional music items, but inadequate conditions for socio-economic development and tourism).
Figure 7 Coordination and dominance of tourism development potential for traditional music in Xiangxi
For dominance (Figure 7b), most regions (Longshan, Baojing, Huayuan, Luxi, and Jishou) have obvious advantages in resource endowment. The above data confirm that Xiangxi is rich in traditional music items once again. Three regions (Longshan, Yongshun, and Fenghuang) have obvious advantages in tourism industry development, and three others (Guzhang, Huayuan and Luxi) have obvious advantages in social-economic conditions. In addition, the dominance of the three indicators (resource endowment, tourism industry development, and socio-economic conditions) in Jishou is not significantly different, reflecting fairly balanced indicators.
(3) Hot areas of potential
In terms of quantity (Figure 8), the hot areas of tourism development potential for traditional music in Xiangxi show a distinct “pyramid” pattern. Specifically, four administrative regions are classified as one-hot areas, two as two-hot areas, and one as a three-hot area. This means that the number of areas with higher levels is smaller, and that with lower levels is larger. In terms of spatial distribution (Figure 8), the four one-hot areas are scattered across the entire region. The two two-hot areas are primarily situated in the western regions. The sole one-hot area is the administrative center (Jishou). Moreover, the hot areas exhibit a “core-periphery” structure, with Jishou as the core, indicating that all indicators in Jishou are in good condition. This finding may be explained by core-periphery theory, which explains the law of the regional economy moving from imbalance to balance (Wen, 2014). In the initial stage, various advantages are concentrated in the central regions, resulting in an increased gap between the core and periphery and imbalanced development. In the later stage, the radiation effect of the core areas drives the peripheral development, leading to balanced development. Therefore, traditional music tourism in Xiangxi is in its initial stage.
Figure 8 Hot areas of tourism development potential for traditional music in Xiangxi

3.2 Tourism development obstacles of traditional music

The obstacle degree of the indexes is calculated using Equation (8), and the tourism development obstacles of traditional music in Xiangxi are determined.

3.2.1 Main obstacle factors

As presented in Table 2, the obstacle degree is highest for socio-economic conditions (39.21%), followed by resource endowment (30.73%) and tourism industry development (30.06%). Therefore, the main factor affecting the tourism development of traditional music in Xiangxi is socio-economic conditions. Xiangxi has a mountainous terrain with low population density, a relatively backward economy and insufficient tourism consumption for local residents. The remoteness has also contributed to poor infrastructure and an inadequate transportation system, thus highly limiting its external tourism market. The obstacle degree of resource endowment is lower than that of socio-economic conditions, primarily due to its small external influence and well-preserved traditional music items. Xiangxi is a minority area, and ethnic culture tourism has a certain foundation, so the obstacle degree of tourism industry development is the lowest. Given the potential impact of tourism on Xiangxi’s local economy, substantial improvements should be introduced to encourage the tourism development of traditional music, which has been largely constrained by socio-economic conditions.
Table 2 Tourism development obstacles of traditional music in Xiangxi
Categories 1 2 3
Obstacle factor Resource endowment Tourism industry development Socio-economic conditions
Obstacle degree (%) 30.73 30.06 39.21

3.2.2 Obstacle types

According to the obstacle degree of factors, the administrative units are divided into the following types: socio-economic conditions obstacle, resource endowment and tourism industry development obstacles, resource endowment and socio-economic conditions obstacles, and tourism industry development and socio-economic conditions obstacles.
(1) Socio-economic conditions obstacle
As shown in Table 3, the main factors restricting traditional music tourism development in Jishou and Longshan are socio-economic conditions, and the obstacle degrees are 63.01% and 42.78%, respectively. Located in the northwest mountainous section, Longshan is remote, which has resulted in isolation, rugged terrain, sparse population, and inconvenient transportation. For Jishou, although it is the administrative center, tourism development remains highly restricted by socio-economic conditions. According to statistical data, Jishou’s GDP per capita and traffic accessibility are the highest in Xiangxi; however, the city’s other indicators do not provide developmental advantages. For instance, the population density in Jishou is fourth (the top three are Fenghuang, Huayuan, and Yongshun). In terms of “parks and green spaces”, Jishou only has 12.31 m2 in 2019, accounting for only 39.39% of the highest value (31.25 m2). These factors constrain the tourism development of traditional music in Jishou.
Table 3 Tourism development obstacle types of traditional music in Xiangxi (%)
Name Resource endowment Tourism industry development Socio-economic conditions
Jishou 1.50 35.49 63.01
Luxi 35.56 32.83 31.61
Fenghuang 47.37 4.74 47.89
Huayuan 32.71 37.44 29.86
Baojing 28.09 39.49 32.42
Guzhang 36.72 35.93 27.35
Yongshun 38.76 22.98 38.26
Longshan 26.61 30.61 42.78
(2) Resource endowment and tourism industry development obstacles
Three administrative units are resource endowment and tourism industry development obstacles, and they are situated in the center (i.e., Huayuan and Guzhang) and the south (i.e., Luxi). Taking Guzhang as an example, the obstacle degrees of resource endowment and tourism industry development are 36.72% and 35.93%, respectively, whereas that of socio-economic conditions is only 27.35% (Table 3). Guzhang has only one traditional music item, resulting in insufficient resource endowment. According to the results, Guzhang performs poorly in all tourism industry development indicators. In 2019, Guzhang had only one star hotels, which was far behind other research units. These results suggest that Guzhang’s tourism facilities are poor. Moreover, the “tourist organizations” in Guzhang remain inadequate, restricting the reception of passengers. In 2019, there was only one travel agency in Guzhang, the smallest number in Xiangxi, in contrast to the largest of 18. Accommodation was also very limited, Guzhang had the smallest number of beds at 2638, equivalent to 7.22% of the highest value (36,521). For indicators of “tourists” and “tourism status”, Guzhang had higher values than only one research unit and lower ones than the other six. In 2019, Guzhang received 2.7299 million tourists, and tourism revenue accounted for 24.99% of the GDP (the highest accounted for 89.64%).
(3) Resource endowment and socio-economic conditions obstacle
Fenghuang and Yongshun are resource endowment and socio-economic conditions obstacles. The obstacle degrees of resource endowment and socio-economic conditions in Fenghuang are 47.37% and 47.89%, respectively; while those in Yongshun are 38.76% and 38.26%, respectively (Table 3). These results suggest that the advantages of resource endowment and socio-economic conditions in these areas are relatively insufficient. For example, Fenghuang has only two municipal traditional music items without national or provincial resources. The GDP per capita and traffic accessibility in Fenghuang are 18.75% and 47.44% of the highest values, respectively. The lower-level traditional music items, limited structure, backward economy, and inconvenient transportation systems are the main obstacles to tourism development.
(4) Tourism industry development and socio-economic conditions obstacles
Baojing is the type of tourism industry development and socio-economic conditions obstacles, and the obstacle degrees of the above two are 39.49% and 32.42%, respectively. The tourism industry in Baojing is in poor condition: no star hotels, only two travel agencies, insufficient beds for passengers (3410 beds), low visitor count (290.56 ×104 people), and limited tourism income (28.46% of the total GDP). The population density in Baojing is 176 person/km2, which is the lowest level in Xiangxi. Its GDP per capita is 2.39 ×104 yuan, which is only 44.42% of the highest value (5.38×104 yuan). These factors contribute to the higher obstacle degree in Baojing.
In general, obstacle factors exhibit strong spatial heterogeneity. The results suggest that Xiangxi’s tourism development of traditional music has been unbalanced and would require measures to optimize the allocation of relevant resources, respect regional differences, and explore targeted and differentiated development plans.

4 Discussion and conclusions

4.1 Discussion

4.1.1 Uniqueness and contribution of this study

This study is novel and unique. First, the indicators used in this study rectify the weaknesses of qualitative analysis or incomplete indicators. The tourism development potential of cultural heritage is intangible and difficult to quantify; consequently, it is often overlooked in empirical studies (Harjawati and Ardiansyah, 2021). In this study, we developed an evaluation index system, which is a more comprehensive and detailed refinement of the existing research (Gligorijevic, 2014; Fitzgerald and Reis, 2016; Chaney, 2017; Farsani et al., 2017). As such, it is helpful to realize a comprehensive and systematic assessment of cultural heritage tourism potential. Second, the research methods used are scientific and unique. Only a few studies have utilized survey methods (Porto and Espinola, 2019; Harjawati and Ardiansyah, 2021), which are simple and effective, but cannot display spatial differences. The geographical methods can avoid these defects; however, their application is still limited (Zhang et al., 2022). Apart from the survey methods, we also used geographical methods (spatial analysis and spatial mapping methods), which have achieved the visual expression of all information (Chen et al., 2022). Therefore, the combination of the above two methods can provide an effective tool for other scholars. Third, this study takes traditional music as the research object, and the research perspective is novel. In summary, this research falls within the intersection of geography, culture, tourism, and art, and distinguishes itself through its unique indicators, methodologies, and perspectives.
The contributions of this study are as follows: On the one hand, this study explores the quantification of traditional music tourism potential, a pioneering advancement that translates intangible potential into measurable metrics, representing a novel breakthrough in this field of research. On the other hand, the indicator system and research methods in this study can provide guidance and methodological references for the traditional music studies. In addition, the suggestions proposed in this study contribute to the rational development and effective protection of traditional music resources and the healthy development of the tourism industry.

4.1.2 Strategies for promoting the tourism development potential of traditional music

Tourism development can be divided into two levels (Yu et al., 2020). The first level aims to expand the consumer market, stimulate domestic demand, and increase income and employment opportunities for residents. The second level emphasizes on achieving comprehensive benefits and high-quality tourism development through the sustainable utilization of tourism resources (Yu et al., 2020).
The tourism development of Xiangxi is undergoing a first to second-level transformation process. The evaluation results suggest that Xiangxi’s tourism development potential of traditional music has significant spatial differences. The overall level is not high, especially in the eastern regions, mainly because of poor social and economic conditions. This scenario results in a low domestic tourism demand and a limited consumer market. Therefore, the most urgent goal of Xiangxi is to develop its economy and maximize modern technologies (e.g., the Internet and big data) to promote and improve passenger flow. Supporting facilities also need improvement, and passenger reception capacity must be enhanced, especially in the central areas of Xiangxi. In regions where traditional music items are insufficient, such as the eastern area of Xiangxi, tourism development should be restricted, and other resources with more prominent advantages should be exploited to maximize benefits. Policies and measures should also be adopted to prevent the adverse effects of excessive tourism development, such as ecological environment destruction and cultural diversity loss.

4.1.3 Research prospects

Traditional music is an important cultural heritage, providing precious spiritual wealth for the Chinese nation. Tourism development is important in realizing its inheritance and reproducing its vitality. However, limited research has been conducted on traditional music due to difficulties in data acquisition and quantification.
This study explores the tourism development potential of traditional music and analyzes various aspects; however, the existing evaluation index system still has room for improvement. Factors such as inheritors (their knowledge, skills, and attitude) and relevant policies are also important. Owing to the uncertainty in the indicators and the difficulty in obtaining data, this study excludes the use of the above indicators, which requires further exploration. In addition, considering that the tourism development of traditional music involves multiple stakeholders (e.g., government, residents, inheritors, and investors), their interests, demands, and game mechanisms should be further explored in subsequent studies. Traditional music tourism may also face a variety of problems, such as excessive commercialization, excessive packaging, and loss of cultural diversity, and thus requires attention in future research.

4.2 Conclusions

The average potential for resource endowment, tourism industry development, and socio-economic conditions are 0.28, 0.36, and 0.24, respectively. Resource endowment exhibits a spatial configuration, having two cores (Jishou and Longshan) and showing a trend of higher in the west and lower in the east. Tourism industry development displays spatial characteristics of higher in the north and south and lower in the center. The potential of socio-economic conditions is higher in the south and lower in the north, with its core area situated in the south. The comprehensive potential is 0.29, with higher values in the northwestern and southwestern regions. Coordination in most administrative units is at a medium level, and most regions have pronounced advantages in resource endowment. The primary obstacle factor is socio-economic conditions (39.21%), followed by resource endowment (30.73%) and tourism industry development (30.06%). Based on the results of obstacle factors, the administrative units can be classified into four groups: socio-economic conditions obstacle, resource endowment and tourism industry development obstacles, resource endowment and socio-economic conditions obstacles, and tourism industry development and socio-economic conditions obstacles.
The highest priority goals for Xiangxi involve economic development and the integration of modern technologies to stimulate passenger flow. Additionally, improving supporting facilities and enhancing passenger reception capacity, particularly in the central areas, would be essential. In regions lacking sufficient traditional music offerings (e.g., eastern area of Xiangxi), tourism development should be restrained and other resources with stronger inherent advantages should be exploited to maximize benefits. Finally, it is crucial to remain vigilant against potential adverse consequences arising from excessive tourism development and to ensure the sustainable and efficient utilization of tourism resources.

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