Development Strategies for Recreational Tourism Management to Enhance Tourist Attractions in Taiyuan

Ying Lu; Kanit  Kheovichai; Vichit  Imarom

doi:10.60027/iarj.2026.e294406

Authors

Ying Lu Faculty of Education, Silpakorn University, Thailand https://orcid.org/0009-0009-6453-7003
Kanit Kheovichai Faculty of Education, Silpakorn University, Thailand https://orcid.org/0009-0007-2817-8731
Vichit Imarom Faculty of Education, Silpakorn University, Thailand https://orcid.org/0009-0001-0625-8067

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.60027/iarj.2026.e294406

Keywords:

Recreational Tourism Management, Tourism Strategy, SWOT Analysis, TOWS Matrix, Taiyuan City, Sustainable Destination Development

Abstract

Background and Aim: With China's economic growth, rising national income, and upgrading tourism demands, recreation tourism has become the mainstream consumption trend. Tourism destinations aim to provide tourists with a holistic experience—a synthesis of travel products and services that offer integrated experiential offerings. (Tongqian, 2006) Despite possessing over a hundred renowned, pristine attractions, Taiyuan has failed to effectively integrate its fragmented resources across "eating, lodging, transportation, sightseeing, shopping, and entertainment," resulting in significantly lagging development and utilization. Therefore, through the rational development and full exploitation of Taiyuan's abundant tourism resources, transforming resource advantages into economic strengths will not only meet the recreation travel needs of urban residents but also drive the structural upgrade of Taiyuan's recreation tourism industry, thereby boosting local economic growth.

Methodology: This study adopts the R&D research method, and the author used both quantitative and qualitative data that were collected through questionnaires and interviews, and SWOT and TOWS analyses were applied to formulate strategic recommendations.

Results: The study identified Taiyuan’s strengths in cultural and natural resources, weaknesses in infrastructure and service quality, and opportunities through digital innovation and policy support.

Conclusion: In general, Taiyuan City has abundant tourism resources and significant potential for recreational tourism development. However, these resources have not yet been fully developed or utilized effectively. If the development strategies proposed in this study are implemented, the tourist attractions in Taiyuan City are expected to become more attractive, and the regional tourism industry is expected to become more sustainable.

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