Research on Differentiated Development Paths of China's Themed Hotels from Dual Perspectives of Cultural Experience and Technological Integration

Abstract

Our study examines differentiated development strategy for China’s themed hotels from the perspectives of cultural experience and technological experience, focusing on four themed hotel brands (Xiyue, Songpin, Huajiangtang and Meilunmeihuan) of the Huazhu Group, combines qualitative interviews with quantitative surveys of customers, and then studies how themed hotels integrate cultural tradition and technological innovation.Both high-end cultural hotels (e.g., Songpin) take the chances to impress visitors with the digitized cultural symbols (i.e., integrating AR to historical buildings); and trendy-themed hotels (e.g., Meilun meihuan) emphasize to poten tially attractive digital interactive experiences (i.e., integrated AI technologies customized service). However, over-development of technology dilutes cultural stories and therefore points toward the need for “hybrid talent” with the ability to interpret heritage and apply technology in their culture.The study illustrates that a successful differentiation rests on contextual aspects of tech integration: luxury hotels target an older clientele through particularly immersive stories of cultural heritage, young travelers prefer trendy hotels’ tech-enabled novelty.These findings offer practical guidance for balancing commercial appeal and cultural preservation in China’s developing hotel industry, which aligns with national policies promoting the integration of culture and tourism.