Geotourism development and improvement in Guizhou province

Abstract

A study of geotourism development and strategies for improvement in Guizhou, China has been carried out particularly on its unique geomorphology and rich geological heritages of this region. Limited by the underdeveloped local economy and management level, the geotourism in Guizhou stays at a primary stage that requires more efforts on both planning and marketing measures. The objective of the study is to find out and analyse problems with the existing geotourism market and geoparks in Guizhou in order to propose feasible solutions for developing better geotourism sites, routes, and related products that can be widely accepted by the tourists. Data in this thesis have been obtained from site investigation and questionnaires in Guizhou as well as some of the websites and literatures. The data are presented in the form of pictures and diagrams. I suggest that a geotourism system or network should be developed in consideration of the dispersion and influence of each geosite. More geoparks and geosites at different scales should be developed to extend the geotourism network in Guizhou and be planned into diverse themes. Some marketing and operation measures for expanding brand effects and enrich tourism contents should also be carried out. In addition, risk management is another significant factor needed to be highly concerned.