Chunran Zhou, Mohamad Reza Mohamed Afla
Emotions in natural environments were positively associated with artistic creation (β = 0.351, p < 0.001) and perceived emotional healing (β = 0.197, p = 0.002). Emotions in cultural environments were positively associated with artistic creation (β = 0.495, p < 0.001) but were not directly associated with perceived emotional healing (p = 0.497). Artistic creation was positively associated with perceived emotional healing (β = 0.692, p < 0.001), which in turn was positively associated with perceived personal growth (β = 0.879, p < 0.001). In addition, artistic creation significantly mediated the relationships between environmental emotions and perceived emotional healing in both natural and cultural environments.
Global rural heritage sites face increasing pressure to reconcile conservation and tourism. This study examines Xizhou Ancient Town in Dali, Yunnan, China, by proposing an integrated tripartite framework – cultural landscape, ecological aesthetics, and place experience – to overcome the limitations of single-theory models. Drawing on 580 visitor reviews (2016–2024) and field research, the study identifies six perception dimensions, with pastoral and aquatic landscapes and architectural and ethnic culture receiving 97% and 93% positive evaluations, respectively. By scientifically configuring 18 native plant species (e.g. Ginkgo, Camellia, Bougainvillea), the design enhances spatial aesthetics, cultural identity, and ecological resilience. Theoretically, this framework extends relevant theories to ethnic rural heritage contexts. Practically, the proposed plant-based strategy offers a replicable, low-cost model for landscape optimization under resource constraints. The findings provide actionable insights for the sustainable management and high-quality tourism development of rural heritage sites worldwide.