Tourism as a Strategic Driver of Sichuan’s Development: From Unesco Mountains to Chengdu’s Creative Quarters // Oriental Vector: History, Society, State. - 2026. №1. . - С. 48-54.

Tourism as a Strategic Driver of Sichuan’s Development: From Unesco Mountains to Chengdu’s Creative Quarters

DOI: 10.18101/2949-1657-2026-1-48-54 UDK: 338.48

The article investigates the role of tourism as a key instrument of China’s regional policy aimed at reduced socio-economic disparities between regions. Using Sichuan Province as a case study, the article demonstrates how tourism development can serve as a driver of economic growth, economic diversification, and poverty reduction. Two main factors contribution to tourism succusses in Sichuan are analyzed: the use of globally renowned natural and historical heritage and the development of urban and cultural tourism. Special attention is given to government support programs for the tourism sector, in particular the One Hundred Cities – One Hundred Districts (百城百区) program and its implementation in Sichuan Province, which illustrates the effective integration of state strategy, financial mechanism, and cultural potential.

regional policy, regional development, tourism, recreational potential, Sichuan, One Hundred Cities – One Hundred Districts.