The Application of GIS Technology in the Preservation of Historical Buildings in Rural China

Rural historic buildings are vital carriers of China’s agrarian cultural heritage but face threats from rapid urbanization, dispersed locations, and limited inspection resources. This study demonstrates how Geographic Information Systems (GIS), integrated with remote sensing, 3D modeling, and sensor-based monitoring, can enable dynamic, spatially enabled databases, risk assessment, and early-warning systems for rural heritage conservation. We outline methods for multiscale spatial analysis, digital twin creation, and multi-criteria decision support to reconcile conservation and development objectives. The proposed GIS-driven framework enhances responsiveness, scientific rigor, and sustainability in managing rural historic assets.