Sustainable Development of Cultural Tourism Products in Historic Urban Districts: A Case Study of Foshan's Diejiao Area

Abstract

As the global process of urbanization continues to accelerate, the comprehensive regeneration and functional transformation of old urban districts have emerged as pivotal challenges within contemporary urban development strategies. In this context, the tourism and leisure industries are increasingly utilized as strategic catalysts for economic revitalization; however, the practical implementation of these renewal projects often encounters significant obstacles. Over-commercialization frequently results in the erosion of local cultural identity, the alienation of traditional social fabrics, and the degradation of the historical environment. Adopting the overarching principles of sustainable development as a theoretical foundation, this research focuses on the Dijiao area of Foshan City as a representative case study to rigorously investigate the systematic construction, developmental approaches, and core principles of cultural tourism products within historic urban neighborhoods. To ensure a comprehensive analysis, this study integrates multi-dimensional research methodologies, including an extensive literature review, detailed field surveys, structured questionnaire-based interviews, and rigorous quantitative data analysis. Based on these findings, the study innovatively proposes a "2C2E" conceptual framework, which encompasses four critical dimensions: Culture, Community, Environment, and Economy. This framework advocates for a synergistic developmental model that prioritizes the preservation of cultural resources, the active involvement of local community members, the maintenance of environmental friendliness, and the long-term viability of economic growth. The empirical case analysis indicates that by implementing strategies centered on cultural innovation, ecological restoration, and community co-creation, the Dijiao area can successfully achieve a sustainable trajectory for tourism product development. Ultimately, this research offers significant theoretical insights and practical guidance for the tourism-led regeneration of aging urban sectors, while emphasizing the necessity for future inquiries to balance dynamic community interests with continuous cultural innovation.