Disjunction Between Official Narrative and Digital Gaze: The Evolution of Sense of Place in Kulangsu World Heritage Site

The rise of digital platforms has transformed heritage interpretation from a single official narrative to multi-stakeholder participation. This study investigates how such platforms mediate the formation of a sense of place at the Kulangsu World Heritage Site (WHS). Data were collected from official narrative texts and user-generated content (UGC) on Dianping and Ctrip, and analyzed using high-frequency word statistics and semantic network analysis. The results reveal a clear divergence between official narratives, which emphasize Outstanding Universal Value (OUV), and tourist perceptions, which focus on visual landmarks and “check-in” practices shaped by the “digital gaze.” Moreover, the sense of place is shown to be a dynamic process, co-constructed through pre-visit expectations, on-site experiences, and post-visit reflections. The findings also highlight a transformation in tourists’ roles, shifting from passive cultural consumers to active participants in the co-construction of heritage values, with digital platforms serving as critical mediators. Theoretically, the study advances digital heritage scholarship by clarifying the mechanism of the digital gaze and the dynamic nature of sense of place. Practically, it underscores the importance of integrating official narratives with UGC to strengthen OUV communication, foster broader public engagement, and support the sustainable development of WHSs.