Hang Kan, a deputy to the 14th National People's Congress and head of the Yungang Research Institute, suggests a tiered evaluation system for cultural relics to better preserve heritage sites, March 5, 2025. [Photo by Wang Yiming/China.org.cn]

China's cultural tourism sector has expanded rapidly in recent years, driven by a growing public appetite for cultural experiences. However, the growth also presents challenges for heritage conservation. At this year's National People's Congress (NPC) session, Hang Kan, an NPC deputy, proposed a tiered evaluation system for cultural heritage sites to promote sustainable management amid rising visitor numbers.

Stone statues at the Yungang Grottoes in Datong, north China's Shanxi province, May 11, 2022. [Photo/Xinhua]

Interest in museums and heritage tourism remains strong in 2024, with Shanxi province emerging as a top destination. Its appeal has been bolstered by the video game Black Myth: Wukong, which drew inspiration from Shanxi's cultural heritage, including Datong's Yungang Grottoes. The grottoes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, feature more than 50,000 stone Buddhist sculptures carved during the Northern Wei dynasty (386-534).

Striking a balance

Hang, who is also head of the Yungang Research Institute, said cultural products like Black Myth: Wukong create substantial opportunities to highlight China's history but warned the surge in visitors can strain delicate heritage sites.

"Visitor numbers at the Yungang Grottoes soared from 3.03 million in 2023 to 4.5 million in 2024. During peak seasons, we've even had to suspend ticket sales to manage overcrowding," he said.

In response, the site introduced an online reservation system to better control visitor flow. Hang also noted an increase in off-season visits, particularly among young travelers, cultural enthusiasts and educational groups. "We are expanding our cultural and educational offerings during the off-season to give visitors deeper, more engaging experiences," he said.

However, Hang emphasized that heritage sites should not be treated as mere tourist attractions, as their true value lies in their historical and cultural significance. Over-commercialization, he warned, has caused irreversible damage to some sites.

To ensure preservation while maintaining public access, Hang proposed a tiered evaluation system to assess heritage sites based on their infrastructure, environmental conditions and tourist carrying capacity. This system would allow controlled, phased openings to prevent excessive strain on fragile sites.

Hang also underscored the need for thorough research and accurate information before opening sites to the public. Many protected relics, he said, lack sufficient academic study, while misinformation on social media distorts public understanding. Improving cultural education, he argued, is essential for deepening public awareness and enhancing heritage's role in cultural development.

Harnessing digital technology 

Since the Yungang Grottoes' UNESCO World Heritage designation in 2001, the Yungang Research Institute has initiated digital preservation efforts. Working with universities like Wuhan University and Zhejiang University, the institute has integrated 3D scanning, virtual restoration and virtual reality exhibitions into its conservation work.

"We created a 3D-printed replica of a section of Cave 12, which was displayed in Ningbo," Hang said, noting how this brought the grottoes' artistry to people beyond Shanxi.

He said digital technology supports heritage conservation and enhances public engagement. "This year, we're launching a digital exhibition hall, giving visitors an interactive experience beyond physical exploration," he said. "Through digital tools, they can delve deeper into the grottoes' history, sculpting techniques and cultural significance."

A staff member of the Yungang Research Institute collects data at one of the Yungang Grottoes in Datong, north China's Shanxi province, Feb. 27, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

Global collaboration promotes cultural exchange

The Yungang Grottoes, a product of cultural fusion, have long attracted international scholars. Hang recalled the site's rediscovery in 1902 by Japanese architect Itō Chūta, followed by early photographic documentation by French scholar édouard Chavannes. Over the years, the grottoes have welcomed prominent visitors, including former French President Georges Pompidou in 1973.

The Yungang Research Institute has recently strengthened global ties through collaborations with cultural institutions in Japan, South Korea and other countries. Embracing digital technology has expanded the grottoes' international presence. Hang said sculpture, with its universal visual appeal, holds unique power for cross-cultural dialogue. "Unlike Chinese calligraphy, sculpture delivers a direct visual experience that transcends language barriers, making it easier for global audiences to relate to," he said.

Looking ahead, Hang hopes to foster greater intercultural understanding through exhibitions and cultural exchange. "No civilization is superior to another. By showcasing our heritage and engaging in dialogue, we can deepen mutual appreciation and strengthen global cultural ties," Hang said.