In which authentic space can tourists feel free?

Abstract

Tourism plays a key role in rural revitalization, drawing growing attention to rural tourism and spaces. However, existing research has yet to fully explore how tourists experience different dimensions of rural space. This study employs a mixed-method approach to examine which authentic spaces foster a sense of freedom for tourists in rural tourism contexts. Grounded in Yi-Fu Tuan’s theory of space and place, empirical research on two historic cultural villages in China reveals that: (1) tourists perceive space through three dimensions—architectural, pragmatic, and mythical; (2) architectural space does not significantly enhance the experience of mythical space, whereas pragmatic space does; and (3) both mythical and pragmatic spaces positively influence tourists’ intrapersonal authenticity, while architectural space only does so under specific conditions. This study offers valuable theoretical insights and practical guidance for rural tourism development.