Work

Spatial Distribution Characteristics and Associated Factors of Officially Listed Intangible Cultural Heritage in the Ganjiang River–Poyang Lake Basin

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: The Ganjiang River–Poyang Lake Basin is a typical river–lake composite water-system region and a major concentration area of intangible cultural heritage (ICH) in Jiangxi Province. However, officially listed ICH does not simply represent the natural distribution of cultural practices but reflects the combined effects of historical accumulation, environmental contexts, and institutional recognition. Based on 616 national- and provincial-level ICH items, this study employs the nearest neighbor index, kernel density analysis, Lorenz curve, standard deviational ellipse, and Geodetector to examine spatial patterns and associated factors. The results reveal significant spatial clustering (NNI = 0.31, Z = −39.16), characterized by riverine concentration, lakeside distribution, and polycentric development. Traditional craftsmanship and folk customs cluster around Poyang Lake, while traditional drama, folk literature, and quyi extend along the Ganjiang River. Distance to major water systems (q = 0.821), policy support (q = 0.813), and inheritors (q = 0.806) show the highest explanatory power. The findings reveal a spatial process of lake-area accumulation, river-channel diffusion, and nodal support.

Source: Sustainability

DOI: 10.3390/su18168419

Authors: Shiwen Lai, Yihuan Tian, Xinyang Li

Institutions: Kangwon National University, Jiangxi University of Finance and Economics, Kookmin University, Cheongju University

Language: English

Topic: Cultural Heritage Management and Preservation

Subfield: Archeology

Field: Arts and Humanities

Domain: Social Sciences

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,896

Funders: Education Department of Jiangxi Province, National Social Science Fund of China