Spatial Distribution of Rural Tourism Villages: A Nearest Neighbor and Kernel Density Analysis
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The research aims to analyze the spatial distribution pattern of characteristic villages for rural tourism in Sichuan Province, in order to optimize the allocation of tourism resources and promote local economic growth. The research adopted the nearest neighbor index and kernel density estimation methods, and analyzed them in combination with the data from 2014 to 2024. The results showed that the nearest neighbor index of Chengdu City was 0.85, and the estimated nuclear density of Aba Prefecture was 0.58, indicating that there were diversity and density differences in the distribution of characteristic villages for rural tourism in different regions. The research reveals the correlation between the spatial distribution of characteristic villages in rural tourism and regional natural resources, cultural characteristics, and tourism development policies. This research makes an innovative stride by applying the nearest neighbor index and kernel density estimation techniques to the spatial distribution analysis of distinctive villages within the realm of rural tourism. It offers a robust scientific foundation for the strategic planning and effective management of rural tourism in Sichuan Province, thereby enhancing the regional case studies within rural tourism research. Moreover, this study holds substantial practical importance in fostering the sustainable development of rural tourism endeavors.
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