Landscape preferences of hikers in Three Parallel Rivers Region and its adjacent regions by content analysis of user-generated photography
Effectively identifying tourists’ landscape preferences is significant for the conservation of heritage sites and forms the foundation for landscape assessment. This study conducted a content analysis of 4,511 photos uploaded by hikers in the Three Parallel Rivers region to explore their landscape p...
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| Main Authors: | , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
De Gruyter
2025-08-01
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| Series: | Open Geosciences |
| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | https://doi.org/10.1515/geo-2025-0834 |
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| Summary: | Effectively identifying tourists’ landscape preferences is significant for the conservation of heritage sites and forms the foundation for landscape assessment. This study conducted a content analysis of 4,511 photos uploaded by hikers in the Three Parallel Rivers region to explore their landscape preferences, differences between natural and cultural landscapes, and the underlying reasons for these preferences across different prefectures, in order to inform landscape management and heritage site conservation strategies. Results indicate a strong preference for natural landscapes, particularly forests, mountain peaks, blue skies, and lakes, while cultural elements such as architectural structures received significantly less attention. Preferences for landscape categories were especially high for vegetation, geomorphology, and meteorological landscapes, reflecting the region’s outstanding natural values that underpin its designation as a World Natural Heritage site. In contrast, geological sites were less frequently featured in the photos, likely due to their low visual appeal, limited public awareness, and a gap between hiker expectations and interpretive infrastructure. By providing quantitative evidence to support landscape management, spatial planning, and conservation strategies aligned with visitor behavior, this study helps heritage site managers optimize resource conservation and presentation strategies, contributing to sustainable tourism development through the balance of visitor satisfaction and heritage conservation. |
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| ISSN: | 2391-5447 |