How spatial perception and psychological distance activate immersive experiences for tourists – an expanded study of the mind-body dualism

Purpose The purpose of this study is to explore the burgeoning sector of immersive experience spaces in the tourism industry, which represents a significant integration of digital technology, culture and tourism. The study aims to understand how spatial perception and psychological distance interact to shape immersive experiences within this context. Design/methodology/approach The methodology employed in this research combines questionnaire surveys and fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) to delve into the factors that contribute to immersive tourism experiences. This mixed-methods approach enables a comprehensive examination of both objective environmental factors and subjective emotional considerations that drive these experiences. Findings The study’s findings reveal that highly immersive tourism experiences are driven by both objective environmental elements (e.g. engaging spatial activities and ambiance) and subjective emotional aspects (e.g. emotional value from social interactions). The study also highlights the critical role of environmental atmosphere perception in shaping non-highly immersive tourism experiences. Originality/value By integrating spatial perception and psychological distance with the mind-body dualism framework, this study advances the theoretical understanding of immersive experiences. It demonstrates how these dimensions interact to influence tourists’ immersion, offering a new perspective that can guide future research.