Cultural governance of Mazu religious tourism

A distinctive state-religion dynamic is reshaping trilaterals involving Macau, Taiwan, and mainland China through the mobilization of Mazu religious tourism. This transformation, driven by collaborative efforts between state actors (Macau and Chinese governments) and non-state actors (Fujian community and Taiwanese Mazu temples), has significantly contributed to Macau's economic diversification while fostering cross-Strait cultural and religious exchanges. The study employs a cultural governance framework, utilizing anthropological research, interviews, and informal conversations with stakeholders, devotees, and visitors across Macau, Taiwan, and mainland China. This approach reveals the socio-economic and political significance of developments such as the A-Ma Cultural Village and the A-Ma Cultural and Tourism Festival, aligning with mainland China's religious united front strategy under the 'one country, two systems' framework.

Chan, K.-S. (2026). Cultural governance of Mazu religious tourism. Tourism Geographies, 1–24. https://doi.org/10.1080/14616688.2026.2635055