The Regime of Rural Ecotourism Stakeholders in Poverty-Stricken Areas of China: Implications for Rural Revitalization

The rural ecotourism system can be defined as a complex association of stakeholders. This system of rural ecotourism in relatively poor areas of China can influence rural revitalization strategies. The purpose of this study is to plan a rural ecotourism system among the tourism enterprises, local residents and government by using an evolutionary game theory. Based on the theoretical analysis, an evolution game model for the three stakeholders is developed and the evolution process of strategies is described by replicator dynamic equations. Then, a simulation method and case was used to analyze the stability of interactions among the stakeholders and determine an equilibrium solution in the finite rationality case. Finally, specific control strategies were proposed to suppress instability and an ideal evolutionarily stable strategy was obtained. This provides a theoretical basis for achieving a win-win situation among the three parties. The results of this study suggest appropriate roles for stakeholders in the rural ecotourism project that provide management implications for rural tourism activities, local economy and rural revitalization.

Automated summary

This study planned a rural ecotourism system using evolutionary game theory, proposed control strategies, and obtained stable solutions. The results suggest appropriate roles for stakeholders in the project, providing management implications for rural tourism activities, local economy, and rural revitalization.