Models and Dynamic Mechanisms of Integrated Development of Regional Intangible Cultural Heritage and Tourism: The Case of Hulunbuir City

The integration of intangible cultural heritage (ICH) and tourism is a vital component of the holistic development of culture and tourism. This study examines the spatial distribution characteristics and tourism integration development models of Hulunbuir City through a spatial geography lens, employing nearest neighbor index and kernel density analysis. The results indicate the following: (1) Arts and crafts, as well as performing arts ICH resources, play a dominant role and are of a higher level, exhibiting a distinct agglomeration pattern centered around the main core area, sub-core area, and marginal area, which reflect the current distribution status. (2) Based on these findings, a spatial integration and optimization model is proposed, initially centered on the core area of ICH resources. Subsequently, a characteristic resource culture and tourism integration model is developed from three perspectives: resource-driven penetrative integration, product-driven restructured integration, and market-driven extension integration. (3) This study argues that the dynamic system driving the integrated development of ICH and tourism consists of three key subsystems: thrust, tension, and support. Their interactions constitute the dynamic mechanism underlying integrated development. Ultimately, this study provides a rational framework for the preservation and utilization of cultural heritage, thereby broadening the scope of cultural heritage studies.