Digital Technology-Driven Ecological Reconstruction and Innovation in the Cultural Tourism Industry: A Case Study of Yongqingfang

Abstract

Amid rapid advances in digital technologies, the cultural tourism sector is experiencing profound ecological restructuring and innovation-driven transformation. This study investigates the digital evolution of Yongqingfang, a historic district in Guangzhou, and proposes a three-dimensional driving framework encompassing technology empowerment, content innovation, and ecological synergy. It systematically analyzes the roles of artificial intelligence, blockchain, and extended reality in enriching cultural experiences, optimizing operational efficiency, and enhancing user engagement. The results indicate that Yongqingfang has realized a value-chain upgrade—from activating cultural resources to transforming consumption models—through the development of branded intellectual property, the rise of influencer-led digital economies, and the digital expression of intangible cultural heritage. In addition, policy support and multi-stakeholder collaboration have facilitated a sustainable integration of heritage conservation, cultural communication, and economic value creation. This case offers a replicable model for the digital regeneration of historic districts and provides practical insights for the global cultural tourism industry.