Research on Cultural and Creative Business Models in Hainan under the Background of "Intangible Cultural Heritage + Tourism"

The deep integration of intangible cultural heritage (ICH) and tourism has created a novel paradigm for the development of Hainan's cultural and creative industries, where cultural empowerment not only drives economic growth but also fosters innovation in tourism. Anchored in the strategic vision of the Hainan Free Trade Port's cultural tourism development, this study systematically examines key ICH resources, including Li ethnic brocade craftsmanship and the historical Nanhai maritime routes, which collectively reflect the island's rich cultural tapestry. Despite the abundant resources, Hainan's ICH-tourism sector faces several critical challenges, such as product homogenization, short profit cycles, and experiences that often lack depth and authenticity. To address these challenges, the study proposes a comprehensive, multi-dimensional framework encompassing four key areas: product innovation, scenario extension, collaborative partnerships, and technological empowerment. Product innovation emphasizes the creative transformation of traditional ICH elements into differentiated tourism offerings. Scenario extension involves designing immersive cultural experiences that allow tourists to engage more deeply with heritage practices. Collaborative partnerships focus on synergizing local communities, businesses, and cultural institutions to co-create value, while technological empowerment leverages digital tools, such as virtual reality, interactive platforms, and smart tourism applications, to enhance accessibility and engagement. Building on these dimensions, a closed-loop business model is proposed: cultural exploration → creative transformation → tourism monetization → continuous iteration. This model provides actionable pathways to transform Hainan's ICH from merely a conserved resource into a sustainable source of industrial and economic value. By systematically linking heritage preservation with market-oriented innovation, the framework supports the high-quality development of the Free Trade Port's cultural economy, promoting both the vitality of local traditions and the long-term competitiveness of Hainan's tourism industry. Ultimately, this approach not only reinforces Hainan's identity as a hub for cultural tourism but also establishes a replicable model for integrating heritage and creative industries in other regions.