How Do Geographical Factors Affect the Distribution of Intangible Cultural Heritage: A Case Study of Xinjiang, China

Abstract

Intangible cultural heritage (ICH) is the essence of excellent traditional culture and the treasure of human civilization. At present, major countries pay more and more attention to the study of ICH. Therefore, it is of great significance to study the spatial distribution characteristics of ICH and to understand the factors affecting the development of ICH. Systematically studying the spatial distribution patterns, influencing factors, differentiation characteristics, and formation mechanisms of ICH is essential for effectively promoting its protection and development, guiding the planning of cultural tourism, and implementing cultural power strategies. There are clear differences between municipal and county-level ICH in Xinjiang. The overall distribution trend shows a spatial aggregation structure with more ICH in the north and fewer in the south. ICH resources are concentrated mainly in Kashgar, Yili, Tacheng, Bazhou, and Urumqi, where the Urumqi-Turpan-Korla region is the high-density core area for all types of ICH. Meanwhile, the Yining and Kashgar areas have a large number of non-relics. Ethnic distributions, cultural environments, policy supports, and other social and cultural factors have greater impacts on the spatial distribution of ICH in Xinjiang, while natural geographical environment factors such as runoff water systems and average precipitation have less influence. Interaction studies revealed that the synergistic effects of natural, economic, and social and cultural factors had a more profound influence on the spatial distribution of ICH. Lastly, to promote sustainable development, suggestions were made to optimize the spatial layout, protection, and development of Xinjiang ICH.

Entropy Change of Historical and Cultural Heritage in Traditional Tibetan Area of China Based on Spatial-Temporal Distribution Pattern

“…The Weizang region, Anduo region, and Kangba region each have distinct historical and cultural features and architectural heritage. In previous studies, discussions on the spatial distribution pattern of cultural heritage mainly focused on the geographical and climatic causes [21,[120][121][122], while the discussion on the temporal aspects of the distribution pattern of historical and cultural heritage was limited. The important perspective of this study is to combine the analysis of the types and time periods of cultural heritage to judge the complexity of cultural heritage in different historical periods, explaining the complexity of social culture and the systematic nature of historical landscapes.…”

“…Although the geographical characteristics of the integrity [13], systematicity [14], regionality [15], and scalability [16] of historical and cultural heritage have been widely recognized, there has been relatively limited research on the complexity [17], temporality [18], and multiplicativity of historical and cultural heritage. Although some studies have discussed the potential threats and interferences faced by current historical and cultural heritage [19], the impact mechanisms of past geographic factors on the current distribution patterns of historical and cultural heritage still need further investigation and verification [20,21]. Some studies have discussed the distribution patterns of cultural heritage of different periods and types, but little is known about the reasons for changes in the distribution patterns of cultural heritage [22].…”

Study on the Spatial Distribution Characteristics and Influencing Factors in the Reuse of National Industrial Heritage Sites in China

“…Various aspects have been explored, employing a data visualization perspective for visual element recognition [21,22], capturing multisensory techniques [23], and developing heritage information databases [24]. At the macro level, with the advancement of remote sensing and geographic information systems (GISs), the spatial distribution of historical landmarks has been quantified [25]. In recent years, the geospatial data visualization techniques of GISs have gained extensive traction in the realm of both tangible and intangible cultural heritage.…”