The Economic Value of Intangible Cultural Heritage: Tibetan Dance and Tourism in Shangri-La

This study explores the economic value of Tibetan dance as an intangible cultural heritage within the tourism economy of Shangri-La, located in the Diqing Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture of Yunnan Province, China. The objective is to examine the economic impact of preserving and disseminating Tibetan dance in Shangri-La by analyzing its role in promoting cultural tourism. Employing a qualitative case study approach, the research was conducted between January and April 2024 across various cultural venues, public squares, schools, and festivals. Data collection methods included participant observation, semi-structured interviews, photo documentation, and document analysis. Thirty-seven informants, comprising policymakers, performers, educators, and residents, were purposively selected to provide diverse perspectives. Thematic analysis revealed that Tibetan dance significantly contributes to the local economy in four key areas: its function as a tourist attraction and performance space, its role in employment and community engagement, contributions to education and skill development, and its impact on visitor experience and spending. However, challenges such as cultural commodification and concerns over authenticity were noted, indicating the need for community-led heritage management and policy support. The study concludes that Tibetan dance represents a sustainable model for integrating cultural heritage with economic development, offering insights for similar ethnically diverse and tourism-driven regions. Future research should explore digital preservation strategies and assess long-term socio-cultural impacts of tourism on heritage practices.