A Study on the Mechanism and Optimization Paths for Promoting the Formation of a Strong Sense of Community among the Chinese Nation through Folk Sports Tourism—A Comparative Case Analysis Based on the Xijiang River Basin in Guangxi Province

Abstract

Folk sports tourism serves as an important vehicle for strengthening the sense of community among the Chinese nation. Taking the three counties of Mashan, Luzhai, and Gongcheng along the Xijiang River in Guangxi as examples, this study employs methods such as literature review, case analysis, and field surveys. Drawing on theories of interactive ritual chains, social embeddedness, and symbolic interaction, it constructs a four-dimensional analytical framework—“subject collaboration—means empowerment—object interaction—effect progression”—to deeply explore the mechanisms by which folk sports tourism fosters and strengthens the sense of community among the Chinese nation, as well as to identify optimal pathways for its enhancement. The study finds that folk sports tourism cultivates emotional energy through collective joy and sparks cultural identity via symbolic interaction, thereby forming the core mechanism for solidifying the sense of community among the Chinese nation. Addressing common challenges such as cultural homogenization, superficial symbolism, and talent gaps, this paper proposes optimization strategies including differentiated development, living heritage preservation, digital empowerment, and improved infrastructure. These strategies aim to provide both theoretical insights and practical references for ethnic regions seeking to strengthen the sense of community among the Chinese nation through the integration of culture and tourism.