Spatial Differentiation Characteristics and Influencing Factors of the Cultural Heritage Activation Level in the Henan Section of the Yellow River Basin

Cultural heritage in major river basins serves as an important spatial carrier of historical civilization evolution, and the spatial differentiation characteristics and influencing factors of its activation level are closely related to heritage conservation, utilization, and sustainable development. This study focuses on the Henan section of the Yellow River Basin and selects 344 cultural heritage sites as the research objects. A comprehensive evaluation system for cultural heritage activation was constructed from three dimensions—culture, society, and economy. By integrating GIS-based spatial analysis with the GWR model, the study reveals the spatial differentiation characteristics of cultural heritage activation levels and their influencing factors. The results indicate that the activation level of cultural heritage exhibits a dual-core-dominated and multi-level spatial agglomeration pattern. Zhengzhou and Luoyang function as dual high-density core clusters with elevated heritage activation levels, while a continuous cultural heritage corridor has gradually formed along Sanmenxia, Luoyang, Zhengzhou, Jiaozuo, Hebi, and Puyang. Furthermore, heritage agglomeration, heritage spatial radiosity, per capita GDP, transportation accessibility, terrain relief, and NDVI on the activation level of cultural heritage demonstrate significant spatial heterogeneity. Based on the identification of spatial heterogeneity, this study proposes a core–corridor–node spatial pattern and a factor-adaptive targeted strategy for cultural heritage activation. These findings provide a scientific basis for differentiated conservation and precise activation of cultural heritage under the national strategy of ecological protection and high-quality development in the Yellow River Basin, while also offering valuable insights for the collaborative governance of cultural heritage in major river basins worldwide.