Sustainable Development of Eco-Cultural Tourism in Remote Regions: Lessons Learned from Southwest China

Abstract

This paper first reviews major theories, approaches and trends in development anthropology related to eco-cultural tourism. Then, it discusses the development process of Mosuo ethnic ecocultural tourism at Lugu Lake in Southwest China since the 1980s and applies theories and approaches of development anthropology to interpret this process. After commenting on the achievements made in this development process, the paper points out problems Mosuo ecocultural tourism is facing in community participation, empowerment and stakeholder participation, and lessons learned for sustainable development of eco-cultural tourism.