sustainability
Article
Research on Climate Change and Water Heritage Tourism Based
on the Adaptation Theory—A Case Study of the Grand Canal
(Beijing Section)
Jiayu Wang , Menghan Wang, Haohan Dou, Mingming Su * , Hangyu Dong and Zhenhua Liu
Citation: Wang, J.; Wang, M.; Dou,
H.; Su, M.; Dong, H.; Liu, Z. Research
on Climate Change and Water
Heritage Tourism Based on the
Adaptation Theory—A Case Study of
the Grand Canal (Beijing Section).
Sustainability 2023, 15, 7630. https://
doi.org/10.3390/su15097630
Academic Editor: Fabio Carlucci
Received: 11 April 2023
Revised: 1 May 2023
Accepted: 5 May 2023
Published: 6 May 2023
Copyright: © 2023 by the authors.
Licensee MDPI, Basel, Switzerland.
This article is an open access article
distributed under the terms and
conditions of the Creative Commons
Attribution (CC BY) license (https://
creativecommons.org/licenses/by/
4.0/).
Sustainability 2023, 15, 7630. https://doi.org/10.3390/su15097630
School of Environment and Natural Resources, Renmin University of China, Beijing 100872, China;
jiayuwang@ruc.edu.cn (J.W.); wangmenghan@ruc.edu.cn (M.W.); haohandou@126.com (H.D.);
13011068566@163.com (H.D.); lzh152@ruc.edu.cn (Z.L.)
* Correspondence: smm52@hotmail.com
Abstract: Water is at the forefront of climate change and is seen as a major channel through which
the effects of climate change are felt. The function of water heritage is closely related to the water
bodies on which it depends. Under climate change, the conservation and tourism uses of water
heritage resources are facing impacts and challenges. Taking the Beijing Section of the Grand Canal of
China as a case, this research applied the adaptation theory to explore the impacts of climate change
on heritage tourism of the section of the Grand Canal in Beijing. It was identified that changes in
the temperature and the precipitation formed climate-related stimuli to tourism along the Canal
from 2012 to 2021 in Beijing. Second, from the supply side of tourism, policies were formulated at
a national or municipal level to respond to the changing climate and its impacts on the Canal and
its tourism uses. Natural-based solutions (NbS) have been applied to rehabilitate the ecosystem
of the Canal, contributing to the enhanced tourism landscape, and providing opportunities for
ecological education. Third, from the demand side, high tourism participation along the Canal was
examined during the high-temperature years. Meanwhile, the increasing tourist needs for water
spaces and activities were observed with evident seasonal patterns. Accordingly, suggestions for
climate adaptation of the Grand Canal from a tourism perspective were proposed. For heritage
conservation, actions of ecological restoration and monitoring should be further implemented. To
assist in the climate adaptation and sustainable development of Grand Canal tourism, suggestions
are proposed to enhance the overall tourism planning, increase water accessibility, and heritage
interpretation for tourists.
Keywords: water heritage tourism; climate change; adaptation theory; the Grand Canal; tourism
supply and demand
1. Introduction
Climate change has been considered the most significant global environmental issue
faced by humanity to date. It has been well established that climate change is a major cause
of critical risks to natural and social systems [1]. Undoubtedly, any changes can create
opportunities and threats to activities in a region, including tourism [2,3]. Indeed, tourism
is both climate-dependent and climate-sensitive [4]. Thus, a better understanding of the
interactions between tourism and climate change would be critical to the sustainability
and viability of tourism [4,5]. Studies have been conducted to examine the impacts of
climate change on tourism. From the supply side of tourism, the changing climate had
impacts on the destination product supply, the energy choices, the service levels and
prices, the strategic choices, and the policy responses [6,7]. From the demand side, existing
studies suggested that climate change affected the psychological perception and behavioral
responses of tourists in many aspects such as travel motivation, destination choice, travel
experience, travel safety, tourist psychology, and behavior and tourism flow [2,8,9].
https://www.mdpi.com/journal/sustainability
Sustainability 2023, 15, 7630 2 of 17

Heritage, cultural or natural, is an important resource for tourism, which could en-
hance the value recognition of heritage resources, enhance the public awareness for heritage
conservation, and promote the socio-economic development of the heritage areas [10,11].
Both heritage conservation and tourism development are also intricately linked to climate
change. Previous studies identified that climate change would lead to heritage decay in
terms of physical, chemical, and biological perspectives [12,13]. Among various types of
heritage, water heritage is heavily influenced by climate change. Changes in the climate
elements, such as temperature, rainfall, water vapor concentration, sunlight duration,
and radiation intensity, may directly or indirectly impact the river or lake runoff, water
self-purification capacity, hydrological processes, pollutant migration, and transforma-
tion [14–16]. Furthermore, an existing study pointed out that contemporary water heritage
had produced irreversible hydrological changes due to natural and climate change impacts.
The heritage and cultures that arose from the human–water nexus were thus affected [17].
In addition, the impacts of climate change on water heritage tourism are highly uncertain
across geographies and conditions. For example, scholars based on a global perspective
argued that tourism and recreation would continue to promote access to water environ-
ments under continued global warming [18]. Conversely, the case of the Atlantic coast
also provided a suggestion by econometrically speculating that extreme heat significantly
reduces recreational participation [19].
Various forms of water heritage have been recognized and inscribed on the World Her-
itage List, such as canals, landscapes associated with lakes and rivers, hydraulic techniques,
and artificial waters as part of the landscape of monumental complexes. They not only
record the uses of water by human beings in history, but also witness the process of civiliza-
tion and social construction that are inseparable from water resources [18]. Beyond other
values, water heritage has the potential to serve as an important tourism space to meet the
hydrophilic needs of people. However, from reviewing the existing literature, few studies
were found to have explored the synergistic solutions between heritage conservation and
tourism utilization under climate change.
Adaptation is considered to be an important solution to respond to climate change.
Adaptation theory came from the evolutionary theory put forward by Darwin in 1859.
Then, adaptation was applied to other fields through interpretation and development,
including tourism [20] and heritage [21]. A framework for climate change adaptation was
proposed [22], specifying three elements as adaptation to what, who or what adapts, and
how adaptation occurs (as seen as Figure 1). The first element refers to climate-related
stimuli, which could be interpreted as the natural aspects of climatic conditions or ecological
effects or human impacts due to the climate. The second element is explained as a system.
Any analysis of adaptation requires a systematic theme and a definition or description of
boundaries, distinguishing who acts and modifying what is also to be embodied. The third
Sustainability 2023, 15, x FOR PEER REVIEW
element relates to the process of adaptation and the resulting forms of3 adaptation,
of 18
which
are both microscopic and specific.

Figure
Figure 1. 1. Adaptation
Adaptation theory
theory to climate
to climate change change [12]by(Drawn
[12] (Drawn authors).by authors).

In this context, this research focuses on the Grand Canal Beijing section, an important
water heritage site designated as a UNESCO World Heritage [24]. Drawing on the frame-
work of the adaptation theory (as displayed in Figure 1), the following research questions
were formulated to understand the interactions occurring between climate change and
 Sustainability 2023, 15, 7630 3 of 17

As a climate-sensitive industry, tourism research on climate change adaptation could

date back to the 1960s [23]. Compared with the frameworks based on business, consumer,
destinations, policy, and sustainability [7], the adaptation theory could provide a systemati-
cal and dynamic framework to examine the responses of tourism in the changing climate.
In addition, three types of key stakeholders in tourism, including policy-makers, tourism
operators, and tourists, were included in this study to reflect both the demand and supply
of the tourism system.
In this context, this research focuses on the Grand Canal Beijing section, an important
water heritage site designated as a UNESCO World Heritage [24]. Drawing on the frame-
work of the adaptation theory (as displayed in Figure 1), the following research questions
were formulated to understand the interactions occurring between climate change and
canal tourism. First, what changes have occurred in Beijing’s climate over the past 10 years
and how has it affected tourism? Second, what actions have been taken to adapt to climate
change from the supply side of canal tourism? Third, how does the tourism demand
adapt to the changing climate? Theoretically, this study is one of the first to explore water
heritage tourism and climate change adaptation. Efforts have been made to construct a
framework for the utilization and conservation of water heritage tourism based on the
supply and demand, which is a supplement to the existing literature. Practically, this study
provides explanatory evidence through empirical research. The proposed Grand Canal
tourism climate adaptation scheme can provide an accurate reference for the sustainable
development of water heritage tourism.

2. Materials and Methods

2.1. Study Area
In 2014, the Grand Canal was listed in the UNESCO World Heritage as a mixed
(cultural and natural) heritage site [24]. With a total length of more than 2000 km, the
Grand Canal links five major basins in China from Beijing in the north, to Zhejiang in the
south. It is the longest canal in the world with a history of more than 2500 years. Both
in ancient times and today, it has outstanding engineering, socio-economic and political
values in the development of the country and the life of the people. Beijing is the northern
terminus of the Grand Canal. In the Beijing section, the 82 km long canal runs through six
Sustainability 2023, 15, x FOR PEER REVIEW 4 of 18
districts: Changping, Haidian, Xicheng, Dongcheng, Chaoyang, and Tongzhou (as seen
in Figure 2).

2. Location
Figure 2.
Figure Locationmap
mapofofthe
theGrand
GrandCanal
Canal(Beijing Section)
(Beijing (Drawn
Section) by authors).
(Drawn by authors).

Climate change imposes negative impacts on the human and natural world in vari-
ous ways, in which water-related issues are particularly pronounced [26]. Thus, the con-
servation of the Grand Canal is also challenged by climate change. Therefore, increasing
its resilience to climate change is among the objectives of heritage conservation and tour-
Sustainability 2023, 15, 7630 4 of 17
Figure 2. Location map of the Grand Canal (Beijing Section) (Drawn by authors).

The Grand Canal connects the historical and cultural resources along the route. After
Climate change imposes negative impacts on the human and natural world in vari-
being authorized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the integration of resources and the
ous ways, in which water-related issues
increased visibility have are particularly
brought pronounced
new developmental [26]. Thus,
opportunities the con-
for tourism of the
servation of the Grand Canal
Grand is and
Canal alsothechallenged
area which itby climate
flows throughchange. Therefore,
[25]. In Beijing, increasing
there are many well-
known tourist attractions along the Grand Canal (as seen in Figure 3), such as Shichahai,
its resilience to climate change is among the objectives of heritage conservation and tour-
Tongzhou Grand Canal Forest Park, and Yuhe Park. The water bodies within these spots
ism development for undertaking
the Grandtourism
Canal. functions are integral parts of the Grand Canal (Beijing section).

Figure 3. The tourist attractions along the Grand Canal (Beijing section); (Photos by authors).
Figure 3. The tourist attractions along the Grand Canal (Beijing section); (Photos by authors).
Climate change imposes negative impacts on the human and natural world in various
ways, in which water-related issues are particularly pronounced [26]. Thus, the conser-
2.2. Data Collection and Processing
vation of the Grand Canal is also challenged by climate change. Therefore, increasing its
resilience to climate change is among the objectives of heritage conservation and tourism
According to thedevelopment
adaptation theory (Figure 1), corresponding research methods were
for the Grand Canal.
designed. First, statistical analysis was conducted to study the climate characteristics of
2.2. Data Collection and Processing
Beijing and the correlations between the tourism and the climate over 10 years. Theoreti-
According to the adaptation theory (Figure 1), corresponding research methods were
cally, a decade was designed.
considered to be an appropriate time scale for measuring climate
First, statistical analysis was conducted to study the climate characteristics of
change and adaptation [22].
Beijing andThus, taking between
the correlations 1 January 2012,and
the tourism to the
31 climate
December
over 102021, as a time
years. Theoretically,
slice, panel data on temperature, precipitation,
a decade was considered and tourist
to be an appropriate timevolumes from 2012–2021
scale for measuring were
climate change and
adaptation [22]. Thus, taking 1 January 2012, to 31 December 2021, as a time slice, panel
collected through Python software from the Beijing Meteorological Bureau and China Me-
data on temperature, precipitation, and tourist volumes from 2012–2021 were collected
teorological Data Sharing
throughService System,
Python software fromand the Beijing
the Beijing Municipal
Meteorological Bureau
Bureau and of Culture
China Meteorological
and Tourism, respectively. Then,
Data Sharing the System,
Service visualand representation of the
the Beijing Municipal monthly
Bureau temperature
of Culture and Tourism,
respectively. Then, the visual representation of the monthly temperature and precipitation
and precipitation data was carried out and then statistically analyzed. Additionally, tour-
data was carried out and then statistically analyzed. Additionally, tourism flow was
ism flow was considered to betoan
considered be important
an important indicator
indicator forfor exploring
exploring tourism
tourism andchange
and climate climate[27].
change [27]. Based several previous studies [28,29], a regression model was generated us-
Based several previous studies [28,29], a regression model was generated using the mean
monthly temperature and mean monthly precipitation, and the monthly tourist volume.
ing the mean monthly temperature and mean monthly precipitation, and the monthly
Second, the research team conducted fieldworks along the Canal in Beijing from 8
tourist volume. February to 10 March, 6 April to 8 April, 3 December, 11 December 2022, and 18 March 2023,
respectively. Important sections and areas of the Grand Canal (Beijing section), such as the
Liangma River, Shichahai, Yuyuantan Park, and Tongzhou Grand Canal Forest Park, were
included in fieldwork. The landscape, facilities, and environmental constructions along the
Canal to adapt to climate change were the main objects of observation. In addition, five
casual tourist interviews were conducted in this process to understand their use patterns
and their relation to the changing climate, which supported the quantitative analysis.
Third, content analysis was conducted based on user-generated content (UGC) to
understand tourism demand. Thus, web travelogues and reviews about various attractions
of the Grand Canal (Beijing section) from 1 January 2012 to 31 December 2021, were
Sustainability 2023, 15, 7630 5 of 17

collected through Python from top online travel platforms in China as Ctrip and Mafengwo.
It should be noted that the number of UGC was related to the popularity and the usage
of travel social media. However, by observing it together with climate indicators, some
results were generated. Finally, a total of 293,841 words were obtained. The word frequency
analysis and theme analysis were conducted. To further explore the connections between
the temperature and the level of tourism participation, direct quotations were extracted
from online reviews, such as “summer” and “winter”.
Data were collected and analyzed first in Chinese and then translated into English. To
ensure the validity of the research, the results were reviewed and cross-checked.

3. Results
3.1. The Climate Change in Beijing and the Stimuli to Tourism
3.1.1. The Changing Climate in Beijing from 2012–2021
Temperature and precipitation are considered to be the most direct indicators for
studying climate change [30]. Beijing has a temperate monsoon climate, and the analyzed
climate indicators also showed significant seasonal differences corresponding to it. Figure 4
shows the monthly temperature and precipitation in Beijing from 2012 to 2021.
For temperature, the average annual (from 2012–2021) temperature was 13.2 ◦ C.
During the 10 years, the temperature showed an increasing trend, as was evidenced by
the average annual temperature after 2014. Of note, the highest temperature was recorded
in 2017, reaching 14.2 ◦ C. In addition, changes were also occurring in the annual seasonal
temperature differences between the four seasons. In particular, it was the largest in winter,
with the highest annual average temperature of 1.1 ◦ C, and the lowest annual average
temperature recorded was −4.1 ◦ C, with a difference of 5.2 ◦ C between the two. The
difference between the highest annual average temperature and the lowest annual average
temperature in spring, summer, and autumn is 4.4 ◦ C, 4.3 ◦ C, and 3.4 ◦ C, respectively.
The average annual precipitation was 554.64 mm from 2012–2021. From Figure 4, it
can be found that the annual precipitation in Beijing was extremely uneven. The annual
precipitation was greater than the multi-year average precipitation in five years, namely
2012, 2013, 2016, 2017, and 2021, respectively, among which the highest precipitation
recorded was 733.2 mm in 2012 and caused flooding. The annual precipitation was found
to be less than the multi-year average precipitation in five years, namely 2014, 2015, 2018,
2019, and 2020, respectively, of which 2019 was the year with the least precipitation. From
2012 to 2021, the average precipitation in Beijing varied greatly from year to year in all
seasons. Beijing’s summer (from June to August) was the rainy season, with precipitation
accounting for more than 70–75% of the year, while winter had very little rain and snow,
with precipitation accounting for only 2% of the year, spring was the next least, accounting
for 8–10% of the year, and autumn accounted for 13–16% of the year.

3.1.2. The Stimuli of Climate to Tourism

As shown in Figure 5, changes in the temperatures and levels of precipitation in
Beijing’s summer and winter from 2012 to 2021 can be described. In summer, June and July
were the months worthy of attention. Although the hottest month was not June, the most
extreme maximum temperatures occurred in June. July was the summer peak, with an
average temperature close to 26 ◦ C. The high temperature was stable, and the temperature
difference between day and night was small. Summer precipitation accounts for 70% of the
annual amount, mostly in the form of heavy rainfall. Plain flooding was one of the main
natural disasters in Beijing in the summer. Meanwhile, winter was found to be cold and
long in duration. Winter precipitation accounted for 2% of the annual precipitation, and
there was often no precipitation (snow) lasting for more than one month.
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Figure 4. Cont.
bility 2023, 15, x FOR PEER REVIEW 7 of 18
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Figure 4. Monthly temperature and precipitation in Beijing from 2012–2021.

3.1.2. The Stimuli of Climate to Tourism

As shown in Figure 5, changes in the temperatures and levels of precipitation in Bei-
jing’s summer and winter from 2012 to 2021 can be described. In summer, June and July
were the months worthy of attention. Although the hottest month was not June, the most
extreme maximum temperatures occurred in June. July was the summer peak, with an
average temperature close to 26 °C. The high temperature was stable, and the temperature
difference between day and night was small. Summer precipitation accounts for 70% of
the annual amount, mostly in the form of heavy rainfall. Plain flooding was one of the
main natural disasters in Beijing in the summer. Meanwhile, winter was found to be cold
and long in duration. Winter precipitation accounted for 2% of the annual precipitation,
and there was often no precipitation (snow) lasting for more than one month.
4. Monthly temperature
Figuretemperature
Figure 4. Monthly and precipitation
and precipitation in Beijingin from
Beijing from 2012–2021.
2012–2021.

3.1.2. The Stimuli of Climate to Tourism

As shown in Figure 5, changes in the temperatures and levels of precipitation in Bei-
jing’s summer and winter from 2012 to 2021 can be described. In summer, June and July
were the months worthy of attention. Although the hottest month was not June, the most
extreme maximum temperatures occurred in June. July was the summer peak, with an
average temperature close to 26 °C. The high temperature was stable, and the temperature
difference between day and night was small. Summer precipitation accounts for 70% of
the annual amount, mostly in the form of heavy rainfall. Plain flooding was one of the
main natural disasters in Beijing in the summer. Meanwhile, winter was found to be cold
and long in duration. Winter precipitation accounted for 2% of the annual precipitation,
and there was often no precipitation (snow) lasting for more than one month.

Figure
Figure 5. Comparisons of 5.
theComparisons of the
temperature andtemperature and precipitation
precipitation between summer
between summer and winter.
and winter.
As shown in Table 1, a trend of increasing tourist volume with increasing temperature,
As shown in along
Tablewith
1, aatrend of increasing
decreasing trend with tourist volume
increasing with increasing
precipitation in winter and tempera-
spring, were
ture, along with aobserved.
decreasing trend
It would with increasing
therefore be helpful toprecipitation in winter
balance the intra-year and spring,
distribution of tourists
were observed. It would therefore be helpful to balance the intra-year distribution ofvariations
and flatten the seasonal variation. Correlations between visitor volume and tour-
in temperature or precipitation were not found to be significant in summer and autumn.
ists and flatten the seasonal variation. Correlations between visitor volume and variations
However, the results also revealed the correlation between changing climate and tourist
in temperature or volumes,
precipitation were not
which therefore found toa scientific
established be significant in summer
link between and autumn.
climate change and tourism
However, the results also
for this revealed the correlation between changing climate and tourist
research.
volumes, which therefore established a scientific link between climate change and tourism
Table 1. Correlation between climate indicator and visitor volume in different seasons.
for this research.
R2 Pearson Value Sig. (Two-Tailed)
Figure 5. Comparisons of the temperature and
Spring precipitation between
0.798 0.871summer
** and winter.0.000
Summer 0.415 0.592 0.040
As shown in Autumn
Table 1, a trend of increasing 0.048 tourist volume 0.139with increasing tempera-
0.581
ture, along with a Winter
decreasing trend with 0.679 0.826 ** in winter and
increasing precipitation 0.002
spring,
Year-round 0.315 0.610 ** 0.000
were observed. It would therefore be helpful to balance the intra-year distribution of tour-
Note: **. Correlation is significant at the 0.01 level (two-tailed).
ists and flatten the seasonal variation. Correlations between visitor volume and variations
in temperature or precipitation were not found to be significant in summer and autumn.
However, the results also revealed the correlation between changing climate and tourist
volumes, which therefore established a scientific link between climate change and tourism
for this research.
Sustainability 2023, 15, 7630 8 of 17

3.2. Supply Side Adaptations to the Changing Climate of the Grand Canal (Beijing Section)
3.2.1. Policy Responses to Climate Challenges
As shown in Table 2, more specialized policy and strategic actions were developed at
the national and Beijing municipal levels from 2012 to 2021. To address the risks of climate
change, China’s National Program to Address Climate Change and National Adaptation
Strategy to Climate Change were released in 2007 and 2013, respectively. In 2022, China’s
Ministry of Ecology and Environment and 17 other departments jointly issued the National
Adaptation Strategy for Climate Change 2035 (NASCC), which referred to the necessity of
nature-based solutions to enhance the adaptive capacity of water resources, including the
Grand Canal.

Table 2. Policies on Grand Canal at the national and municipal levels from 2012–2021.

Year Policy Description Authorizing Body

Beijing Flood Control
2012
Emergency Plan
Measures for the
Administration of the
2012
Heritage Protection of the
Grand Canal
Opinions on strengthening the
construction and management
2013
of the ecological environment
of rivers and lakes (2013–2015)
Beijing 2016 Flood Control
2016
Work Plan
Beijing Urban Master Plan
2017
(2016–2035)
Protection and Construction
2018 Plan of Beijing Grand Canal
Cultural Belt
Regulatory Detailed Planning
2019 of Beijing City Sub-center
(Block Level) (2016–2035)
“The Great Wall, the Grand
Canal, and the Long March
2019
National Cultural Park
Construction Plan”
To resist flood disasters, Beijing has carried out
urban flood control construction, and completed the
Beijing Municipal Emergency
reinforcement of key flood control channels and
Management Bureau
embankments such as the Yongding River, Chaobai
River and North Grand Canal.
The department in charge of cultural relics under the
State Council is in charge of the overall protection of
the Grand Canal heritage site, and cooperates with
the departments in charge of the land, Ministry of Culture of the
environmental protection, transportation, and water People’s Republic of China
conservancy of the State Council to carry out related
work within the scope of their respective
responsibilities according to law.
(1) Accelerate the construction of river and lake
greenways; (2) Implement the construction of “two General Office of Beijing
canals and ten rivers” greenways, improve the Municipal People’s
ecological environment around rivers and lakes, and Government
serve citizens for leisure and fitness.
Tourism special sub-points perform a good job in the
Beijing Municipal People’s
safe transfer of tourists and the safety of scenic spots
Government
during flood seasons.
Promote the construction of the Grand Canal
Central Committee of the
Cultural Belt, the Great Wall Cultural Belt, and the
Communist Party of China
Xishan Yongding River Cultural Belt.
(1) Accelerate the monitoring of the water
environment along the Grand Canal to keep abreast Standing Committee of the
of the water quality; (2) Improve the landscape Beijing Municipal Committee
environment quality of the Grand Canal.
(1) Relying on cultural resources such as the Grand
Canal Cultural Belt, create a new window for culture
Beijing Municipal
and tourism; (2) Ensure the safety of urban flood
Commission of Planning and
prevention and waterlogging; (3) Provide more
Natural Resources
high-quality and convenient green spaces for leisure
and recreation for the people.
(1) Restoring the space environment, giving full play General Office of the Central
to the restoration of natural ecosystems, controlling Committee of the Communist
soil erosion, and carrying out water pollution Party of China and the
prevention and control; (2) Improving tourist routes General Office of the State
and connecting important nodes. Council
 (1) Relying on cultural resources such as the Grand Canal Cultural
Beijing Municipal
ailed Planning of Belt, create a new window for culture and tourism; (2) Ensure the
Commission of Plan-
-center (Block safety of urban flood prevention and waterlogging; (3) Provide
ning and Natural Re-
35) more
Sustainability 2023, high-quality and convenient green spaces for leisure and
15, 7630 9 of 17
sources
recreation for the people.
General Office of the
Table 2. Cont.
, the Grand Ca- (1) Restoring the space environment, giving full play to the resto- Central Committee of
g March Na-Year ration ofPolicy
natural ecosystems, controllingDescription soil erosion, and carrying the Authorizing Communist BodyParty
Park Construc- Beijing’s
out water pollution
medium and prevention andplans
Make overall control; (2) Improving
to promote tourist
the construction of of China
Beijing andLeading
Municipal the
long-term plan for promoting the Grand
routes and connecting important nodes. Canal Cultural Belt and build an overall Group for Promoting
General Office of thethe
2020
the construction of a national spatial structure that blends historical context and Construction of a National
cultural center (2019–2035) ecological environment. State Council
Cultural Center
(1) Promote the management of the ecological Beijing Municipal
m and long-term environment along the Grand Canal, build a Leading Group for
Make overall
Construction plans to promote
and Protection waterfrontthe construction
leisure space near theofwater,
the Grand Ca- Beijing Municipal
and create
ing the construc-
2021 Planning of Beijing Grand an ecological and cultural landscape corridor; (2) Promotingand the Con-
nal Cultural
Canal National
Belt and
Cultural Park
build an overall
Strengthen
spatial
greening and
structure that blends Development
environmental Commission
Reform
l cultural center struction of a Na-
historical context and ecologicalimprovement environment.
on both sides of the river, and build a
flood control system. tional Cultural Cen-
ter
(1) Promote the management of the ecological
With this background, environment
Beijing launched along and Construction Plan of
the Protection
d Protection the Grand Canal, the build
GrandaCanal
waterfront
Culturalleisure
Belt inspace nearInthe
2018 [31]. water,
2021, BeijingBeijing
releasedMunicipal
the Construction
and Protection of Grand Canal
ing Grand Canal and create an ecological and cultural landscape corridor; (2)National Cultural Park, where ecological
Development governance
and and
tourism development were presented as core topics. To cope with extreme events under
al Park Strengthen greening and environmental improvement on both Reform Commission
climate change, the construction of the Grand Canal flood control system was introduced.
sides of the river, For and build
example, theaGrand
floodCanal
control
wassystem.
cut off in the first half of the 20th century due to historical
evolution, human activities, and climate change. In 2022, the Grand Canal initiated a full
replenishment
From the ecological of water,
perspective, and a replenishment
water volume greaterand
system management than ecological
515 million cubic meters
recon-
allowed the Grand Canal to be fully navigable [32], which provided macro support for the
struction along the canal played of
development antheimportant
Grand Canal. role in climate change adaptation and bio-
diversity conservation. Moreover, ecological
From the ecological improvements
perspective, water systemand the creation
management of riverreconstruc-
and ecological land-
tion along the canal played an important role in climate change
scapes and leisure spaces (Figures 6 and 7) could enrich the tourism supply and increase adaptation and biodiversity
conservation. Moreover, ecological improvements and the creation of river landscapes and
the tourism potential along the canal.
leisure spaces From
(Figures 6 andthe tourism
7) could enrichperspective, the and
the tourism supply importance
increase theof the
tourism
Grand Canal as leisurepotential
space to enhance
along the canal.resident
From thewell-being has been
tourism perspective, theemphasized.
importance of the More-
Grand
Canal as leisure space to enhance resident well-being has been
over, the canal was considered a critical carrier of the national identity, which needed to emphasized. Moreover,
the canal was considered a critical carrier of the national identity, which needed to be
be constructed [33]. constructed [33].

Figure 6. The integrationFigure

of water
6. Themanagement andmanagement
integration of water tourism landscape
and tourismin Liangmahe;
landscape (Photos
in Liangmahe; by
(Photos
authors). by authors).
OR PEER REVIEW2023, 15, 7630
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17

Figure 7. The construction of the waterfront space and water-related tourism supply; (Photos by
authors).

3.2.2. Existing Practices Based on Nature-Based Solutions (NbS)

As mentioned above, nature-based solutions (NbS) were seen as an important adap-
tation option for climate change and canal management. NbS were defined as actions to
conserve, sustainably use, and restore natural or altered ecosystems, which can effectively
and adaptively respond to the challenges facing our society today, while enriching human
well-being and biodiversity [34,35].
It was observed that NbS were applied along the Grand Canal (Beijing section). In
areas close to the canal, floodplains and grassed ditches were constructed (as shown in
the left of Figure 8), which could act as the buffer zone during heavy rainfalls, which ap-
Figure 7. The construction of
7. the waterfront space
The construction and water-related tourism tourism
supply; (Photos by
peared more often inFigure recent decades, andof could the waterfront
thereby space and water-related
support flood management supply; (Photos
in
authors). by authors).
Beijing. Meanwhile, the rehabilitation of the canal could optimize the canal landscape and
enhance its tourism value.3.2.2. Existing Practices
In riparian Based
areas, on Nature-Based
green corridorsSolutions
built with (NbS)biological measures
3.2.2. Existing Practices Based on Nature-Based Solutions (NbS)
As mentioned above, nature-based solutions (NbS) were seen as an important adap-
provided habitats for local birds and insects. In addition to providing additional tourist
tation option for climate change and canal management. NbS were defined as actions to
Asthese
space, mentioned
corridorsabove,
couldnature-based
contribute tosolutions
carbon (NbS) were
reduction seen as an important
by sequestering carbon adap-
diox-
conserve, sustainably use, and restore natural or altered ecosystems, which can effectively
tation
ide and option for climate
releasing oxygen. change
Moreover,
and adaptively and many
respond canal
to the management.
interactive
challenges NbS were
interpretative
facing our society defined
facilities
today, aswere
actions
while enriching de- to
human
conserve,
signed along sustainably
the canal.use,
well-beingand
Contentand restore natural
biodiversity
on wildlife or altered ecosystems,
[34,35].
conservation and climate which
changecan effectively
was ex-
and adaptively It
respondformats was observed
to the challenges that NbS were applied along the Grand Canal (Beijing section). In
plained in entertaining such as thefacing rotatingourrubessociety today, 8while
in Figure (on the
areas close to the canal, floodplains and grassed ditches were constructed (as shown in
enriching
right). human
well-being
It could andbe biodiversity
considered
the left of [34,35].
that the8),implementation
Figure which could act asofthe NbS was
buffer anduring
zone effective
heavy approach in
rainfalls, which
It wasprocess.
the policy observed thatresearch,
Inappeared
this NbSmorewere applied
thein
often supply along
of canal
recent decades, the
and Grand
tourism
could Canal
under
thereby (Beijing
climate
support flood section).
change was In
management in
areas close intoathe Beijing.
canal,way. Meanwhile,
floodplains the rehabilitation
and grassed of the canal
ditcheswas could
were optimize
constructedthe canal landscape
(as shown and
elucidated specific The hermeneutic approach similar to extracting a key in
enhance its tourism value. In riparian areas, green corridors built with biological measures
the leftfrom
frame of Figure 8),of
a series which
shots.could
provided It wasact
habitats as
found
for the
local thatbuffer
birds zone
NbSinsects.
and measures during heavy
could
In addition rainfalls,
to promote
providing the which
conser-
additional ap-
tourist
vation ofmore
peared the canal
oftenheritage
in recent
space, and
these enhance
decades,
corridors itscontribute
and
could ability
could to respond
thereby
to carbon to climate
support
reduction by flood change. Moreo-
management
sequestering carbon in
dioxide
ver, NbS also and
enriched releasing
the tourismoxygen. Moreover,
supply by many interactive
extending the
Beijing. Meanwhile, the rehabilitation of the canal could optimize the canal landscape and interpretative
resources facilities
for were
tourism designed
and
along the canal. Content on wildlife conservation and climate change was explained in
generating
enhance itsecological
tourism value.education
entertaining
effectsareas,
In riparian
formats such
forasthe
the
tourists.
green corridors
rotating built8with
rubes in Figure (on thebiological
right). measures
provided habitats for local birds and insects. In addition to providing additional tourist
space, these corridors could contribute to carbon reduction by sequestering carbon diox-
ide and releasing oxygen. Moreover, many interactive interpretative facilities were de-
signed along the canal. Content on wildlife conservation and climate change was ex-
plained in entertaining formats such as the rotating rubes in Figure 8 (on the right).
It could be considered that the implementation of NbS was an effective approach in
the policy process. In this research, the supply of canal tourism under climate change was
elucidated in a specific way. The hermeneutic approach was similar to extracting a key
frame from a series of shots. It was found that NbS measures could promote the conser-
vation of the canal heritage and enhance its ability to respond to climate change. Moreo-
ver, NbS also enriched the tourism supply by extending the resources for tourism and
generating ecological education effects for the tourists.

Figure 8. The NbS measures and

Figure 8. Thetourism interpretative
NbS measures and tourismfacilities nearfacilities
interpretative the Grand Canal;
near the Grand(Photos by
Canal; (Photos
authors). by authors).

3.3. Demand Side Adaptations to the Changing Climate

 Sustainability 2023, 15, 7630 11 of 17

15, x FOR PEER REVIEW 11 of 18

It could be considered that the implementation of NbS was an effective approach in
the policy process. In this research, the supply of canal tourism under climate change
was elucidated in a specific way. The hermeneutic approach was similar to extracting
a key frame from a series of shots. It was found that NbS measures could promote the
3.3.1. Climate-Related Tourism
conservation Participation
of the canal heritage and enhance its ability to respond to climate change.
Moreover, NbS also enriched
Initially, to match the link between the tourism
tourismsupply by extending and
participation the resources for tourism
the climate, the col-
and generating ecological education effects for the tourists.
lected data of UGC and the climate panel were analyzed by year time slices. As shown in
Figure 9, the number
3.3. Demandof UGCs between
Side Adaptations to the2012 andClimate
Changing 2021 was fluctuating. From 2012–2021,
3.3.1. temperature
the average annual Climate-Related in Tourism
Beijing Participation
was 13.2 °C. Only 2014 and 2017 demonstrated
Initially, to match the link between tourism participation and the climate, the collected
average temperatures higher than the 10 year average of 13.2 °C. Correspondingly, two
data of UGC and the climate panel were analyzed by year time slices. As shown in Figure 9,
peaks in the number of UGCs
the number of UGCswere also2012
between examined in 2014
and 2021 was and 2017.
fluctuating. Even considering
From 2012–2021, the average that
◦
the number of UGCannualincreases
temperatureyear by year
in Beijing was with
13.2 C.the increasing
Only uses
2014 and 2017 of social media,
demonstrated average such
temperatures higher than the 10 year average of 13.2 ◦ C. Correspondingly, two peaks in the
a correlation is still indicative of a higher tourism participation along the Grand Canal in
number of UGCs were also examined in 2014 and 2017. Even considering that the number
Beijing in the hotter
of UGC years.
increases year by year with the increasing uses of social media, such a correlation
is still indicative of a higher tourism participation along the Grand Canal in Beijing in the
hotter years.

Figure 9. The temperature, precipitation, and tourist volumes in Beijing from 2012–2021.
Figure 9. The temperature, precipitation, and tourist volumes in Beijing from 2012–2021.
To further explore the connections between the temperature and the level of tourism
participation, direct quotations were extracted from online reviews. According to the cli-
To further matic
explore the connections
characteristics between
of Beijing, high the temperature
temperatures occurred duringand the level
the summer. of tourism
Therefore,
participation, direct
the UGCquotations
of 2014 andwere extracted
2017 were from
extracted withonline reviews.
“summer” According
as the main to the cli-
filtering condi-
tion. Co-occurrence of “summer” and “coolness” was found among canal tourists, and
matic characteristics of Beijing, high temperatures occurred during the summer. There-
water-related tourism participation was featured.
fore, the UGC of 2014 and 2017 were extracted with “summer” as the main filtering con-
“The lake surface is quite large. Although it is summer and the temperature is very high,
dition. Co-occurrence of “summer”
it is still andthe“coolness”
cool to stroll along Kunming Lakewas found
with the among
willows canal it”
leaning against tourists,
(3 and
water-related tourism
Augustparticipation
2017, Kunminghu, was featured.
Summer Palace)

“The lake surface is quite large. Although it is summer and the temperature is very high,
it is still cool to stroll along the Kunming Lake with the willows leaning against it” (3
August 2017, Kunminghu, Summer Palace)
“It’s right next to Houhai, a great place to cool off in summer evenings. There’s a bar
 Sustainability 2023, 15, 7630 12 of 17

“It’s right next to Houhai, a great place to cool off in summer evenings. There’s a bar
FOR PEER REVIEW nearby. People who enjoy excitement can go drink and chat, while those who12enjoy of 18
quietness can stroll around Shichahai. It’s cool, but there are more mosquitoes” (18 July
2014, Shichahai)
“Take a walk along the river, and at night, the wind blows by, making it cool and relaxing
Thus, a clearer in summer”
connection (30 June 2014,
between Tongzhou Forest
the changing Park) and canal tourism was con-
climate
structed. With the canal “During
offering thewater
day, there are not manyand
experiences peopleactivities
here, and itthat
is very quiet. mitigate
could Occasionally,
the
elderly people are fishing by the lake, which is very pleasant. In summer, this is also a
negative experiences from the rising temperatures induced by the changing climate,
place to enjoy the lotus in Beijing” (5 April 2017, Shichahai)
higher demands for canal tourism were examined, especially in the summer.
“Boating on the lake is particularly comfortable. Looking at the scenery on the shore, it
feels very cool in summer” (30 July 2014, Kunminghu, Summer Palace)
3.3.2. The Increase of Water-Based Tourism Activities along the Canal
Thus, a clearer connection between the changing climate and canal tourism was
To further verifyconstructed.
the hydrophilic
With the needs of tourists,
canal offering the wordand
water experiences frequency analysis
activities that was
could mitigate
the negative experiences from the rising temperatures induced by the changing climate,
conducted based on the UGC from 2012–2021. Meanwhile, the climate data showed the
higher demands for canal tourism were examined, especially in the summer.
seasonal characteristics of climate change generated in Beijing, which provided a basis for
3.3.2. The
exploring the perceptions andIncrease of Water-Based
behaviors of the Tourism
Grand Activities along thesection)
Canal (Beijing Canal tourists by
seasonal divisions. To further verify the hydrophilic needs of tourists, the word frequency analysis was
conducted based on the UGC from 2012–2021. Meanwhile, the climate data showed the
The high-frequency words could reflect the overall perceptions of the tourists in dif-
seasonal characteristics of climate change generated in Beijing, which provided a basis for
ferent seasons. Accordingly,
exploring the top 30 high-frequency
the perceptions and behaviors ofwords
the Grandwere shown
Canal in section)
(Beijing summer and by
tourists
winter. As shown in Figure 10, tourists’ perceptions of the Grand Canal (Beijing section)
seasonal divisions.
The high-frequency words could reflect the overall perceptions of the tourists in
in summer focused on “boating”, “swimming”, “wakeboarding”, “sailing”, “sailing”, and
different seasons. Accordingly, the top 30 high-frequency words were shown in summer
“paddle boarding”. This indicated
and winter. thatinthe
As shown Grand
Figure Canalperceptions
10, tourists’ (Beijing of section)
the GrandwasCanalthe(Beijing
placesection)
for
tourists to engage ininwater-based
summer focused activities during
on “boating”, the summer
“swimming”, with high
“wakeboarding”, temperatures.
“sailing”, “sailing”, and
“paddle boarding”. This indicated that the Grand Canal (Beijing
While in winter, “ice” becomes the core resource of recreational uses with “ice skating”, section) was the place for
tourists to engage in water-based activities during the summer with high temperatures.
“fishing”, “winter swimming”, and “ice rink” having been listed. An evident seasonal
While in winter, “ice” becomes the core resource of recreational uses with “ice skating”,
pattern in tourist participation in the
“fishing”, “winter Grand Canal
swimming”, and “ice(Beijing section)
rink” having beenwas identified
listed. An evident asseasonal
wa-
ter-based activities inpattern
summer andparticipation
in tourist ice-basedinactivities in winter,
the Grand Canal (Beijingand both
section) waswere deemed
identified as water-
based activities in summer and ice-based activities in winter, and both were deemed to be
to be prone to climatic influences.
prone to climatic influences.

Figure 10. ComparisonFigure

of tourists’ perception
10. Comparison in summer
of tourists’ (left)
perception and winter
in summer (right).
(left) and winter (right).

Similarly, the field research along the canal corresponded with the seasonal patterns
Similarly, the field research
illustrated along
by the onlinethe canal
reviews. corresponded
Swimming with
and fishing werethe seasonal
primarily patterns
engaged by elders
illustrated by the online reviews.
of both gendersSwimming
while fishingand
wasfishing
favored were
amongprimarily engaged
males. As one by elders
elder man in his 90s
of both genders while fishing was favored among males. As one elder man in his 90s de-
scribed: “I ride my bike to the Canal almost every day, except in bad weather. I like fishing… Oh,
yes, there are fish in the Canal, small fish. I catch fish and then release them. It is a kind of routine
Sustainability 2023, 15, 7630 13 of 17

described: “I ride my bike to the Canal almost every day, except in bad weather. I like fishing . . .
Oh, yes, there are fish in the Canal, small fish. I catch fish and then release them. It is a kind of
routine of my life and it is good for my health.”.
Additionally, there were also emerging uses of the canal by the younger generation
through more active water activities such as sailboarding. As a female interviewee with
young children expressed: “These summers have been really hot and dry, so taking advantage of
the canal, we brought sailboards from Taobao (the popular online shopping platform in China) and
Sustainability 2023, 15, x FOR PEER play
REVIEWsailboards quite often in the summertime. It is cool along the Canal. My children enjoy 13 it
ofvery
18

much and it is good for their health too!”.

These interviews also indicated influences of the pandemic in the past three years,
whichThus,
has encouraged
in respondingwithin-Beijing recreational
to the changing activities
climate and when trips
the pandemic, theoutside
Grand Beijing were
Canal (Bei-
restricted. Along
jing section) has the
beenGrand Canal
playing (Beijing section),
an increasingly tourists
important and
role in residents
supporting enjoyed the water
the increasing
with sketching,
demands swimming,activities
of water-related and fishing (as seen
among in Figure
residents 11).
and tourists in Beijing.

Figure 11. Tourist participation in water-related activities along (and in) the Grand Canal (Beijing
Figure 11. Tourist participation in water-related activities along (and in) the Grand Canal (Beijing
section); (Photos by authors).
section); (Photos by authors).
4. Discussion and Implications
Thus, in responding to the changing climate and the pandemic, the Grand Canal (Bei-
4.1.section)
jing General has
Discussions
been playing an increasingly important role in supporting the increasing
demands of water-related
Previous studies haveactivities
revealedamong residents
that climate andistourists
change alreadyin Beijing. heritage re-
impacting
sources [12,13]. With tourism as a typical use of these heritage resources, it is important
4.toDiscussion and Implications
therefore understand the interactive relations between climate change and heritage
4.1. General Discussions
tourism. Taking the Beijing section of the Grand Canal as a case, this research examined
the Previous
adaptationstudies
to climate
havechange on the
revealed supply
that and change
climate demandisside of the impacting
already Grand Canal tour-
heritage
ism, and [12,13].
resources the adaptation mechanism
With tourism was developed
as a typical (as shown
use of these in resources,
heritage Figure 12).it is important
to therefore understand the interactive relations between climate change and heritage
tourism. Taking the Beijing section of the Grand Canal as a case, this research examined the
adaptation to climate change on the supply and demand side of the Grand Canal tourism,
and the adaptation mechanism was developed (as shown in Figure 12).
ty 2023, 15, x FOR PEER REVIEW 14 of 18
Sustainability 2023, 15, 7630 14 of 17

Figure 12. Adaptation

Figure 12. Adaptation mechanismmechanism for tourism
for tourism ofofthe
the Grand
GrandCanal (Beijing
Canal section)section)
(Beijing under climate
underchange.
climate
change.
First, over the past 10 years, climate change in Beijing was reflected in high-temperature
years, seasonal differences in precipitation, and extreme weather events. The direct stim-
First, over thethepast
ulus of 10 years,
changing climate
climate change
on tourism wasin Beijing in
expressed was thereflected
change in in high-tempera-
tourist volume.
ture years, Through
seasonalthedifferences in precipitation,
correlation analysis between climateand extreme
indicators weather
and touristevents.
volume,The a highdirect
correlation (0.871 ** and 0.826 **, respectively) between the
stimulus of the changing climate on tourism was expressed in the change in tourist vol- two in spring and winter was
found. These findings illustrated that there were stimuli to tourism originating from a
ume. Through the correlation analysis between climate indicators and tourist volume, a
changing climate, while also validating the results of previous studies on the impact of
high correlation
climate(0.871
change**on and 0.826flow
tourism **, [27].
respectively)
Furthermore, between the atwo
it provided basisinfor
spring and winter
this research to
was found.studyThese findings
water heritage illustrated
tourism underthatclimate
there change
were stimuli
in Beijing.to tourism originating from
a changing climate,Second, actions
while of adaptation
also validating occurred in the tourism
the results supplystudies
of previous that were onstimulated
the impact by of
climate change. In this research, policies for climate change adaptation
climate change on tourism flow [27]. Furthermore, it provided a basis for this research to and water heritage
conservation at the national and regional levels were articulated in China. Policies and
study waterstrategies
heritagewere tourism under climate change in Beijing.
focused on the ecological and cultural dimensions of the Grand Canal in
Second, an actions
umbrellaof adaptation
form, which providedoccurred in thefortourism
a roadmap actions on supply thatchange
the climate were response
stimulated
by climate change.
as well asIn this research,
tourism development policies
for theforGrand
climate
Canal.change adaptation
Additionally, and water
considered as oneher-
itage conservation at the national and regional levels were articulated in China.asPolicies
of the most promising approaches to climate challenges [35], NbS were engaged key
actions of adaptation. Through the observation during the fieldwork, measures rooted in
and strategies were focused on the ecological and cultural dimensions of the Grand Canal
NbS, such as green corridors, rain gardens, or flood plains along the canal, have improved
in an umbrella form, which
the ecological quality provided
and the climatea roadmap
regulationfor actions
capacity of theoncanal.
the Meanwhile,
climate change it also re-
sponse as well as tourism
enriched the supply development
of the tourism forlandscape
the Grand and Canal. Additionally,
the waterfront space and considered
is thereby as
shaping the perception of the tourism demander.
one of the most promising approaches to climate challenges [35], NbS were engaged as
Third, climate
key actions of adaptation. change was
Through the found to stimulate
observation duringthe the
demand of tourism,
fieldwork, which was
measures rooted
leading to adaptation. From searching for the annual patterns of the UGC and temperature
in NbS, such as green
indicators, corridors,
it was be foundrainthatgardens, or flood
high-temperature plains
years led toalong
more the canal,
tourism have im-
participa-
proved the tion.
ecological quality and the climate regulation capacity of
Moreover, the co-occurrence of “summer” and “coolness” was found by extracting the canal. Meanwhile,
it also enriched
the UGC thein supply of the tourism
high-temperature years, which landscape
showed and thetourists
that the waterfront
adaptedspace and is
to a high
temperature by participating in
thereby shaping the perception of the tourism demander. Grand Canal tourism. This confirmed the findings of
previous studies that tourism could promote access to aquatic environments in the face
Third, climate change was found to stimulate the demand of tourism, which was
of continued climate change [18]. Furthermore, the word cloud map showed that tourists
leading to adaptation.
form a tourism From searching
perception for theand
with “water” annual
“ice” patterns
as the kernelof the UGC and
in summer tempera-
and winter,
ture indicators, it was be found that high-temperature years led to more tourism partici-
pation. Moreover, the co-occurrence of “summer” and “coolness” was found by extracting
the UGC in high-temperature years, which showed that the tourists adapted to a high
temperature by participating in Grand Canal tourism. This confirmed the findings of pre-
Sustainability 2023, 15, 7630 15 of 17

respectively. These phenomena were also verified by interviews and field observations.
Consequently, a hydrophilic demand was generated under the influence of climate change,
whose specific performance was the increase in activity-based tourism related to water
along the Grand Canal.

4.2. Theoretical and Managerial Implications

Theoretically, this research provides several contributions. First, previous studies
have treated tourism and heritage as two separate entities to establish the relationships
with climate change. In contrast, this research treated water heritage and tourism as a
system to study their adaptation to climate change, which filled the research gap. Second,
previous research on heritage, tourism, and climate change was mostly non-empirical.
However, this research was an enrichment of the relevant studies by developing a study
through an empirical case. Third, the integration of the climatological adaptation theory to
study heritage tourism was advanced. This research extended the application area of the
adaptation framework and validated its rationality.
Managerial implications to respond to the heritage conservation and tourism utiliza-
tion under climate change were then generated for the Grand Canal Beijing. First, the
sustainability of the watershed was the basis for climate change adaptation and heritage
tourism. Continuous water replenishment according to the changing climate is necessary,
which could ensure the water quantity of the canal to sustain its ecological and recreational
functions. Additionally, it is of urgent need to develop a risk management plan to deal
with extreme weather events. Potential negative environmental impacts of tourism should
be attended to through water quality monitoring and tourist behavior management.
Moreover, as a linear heritage, it is necessary to shift the current development focus on
special spots, to a whole area development mode that links the linear water body and the
radiating area. Themed and diverse touristic routes should be designed through improving
the connectivity between the different sections of the canal. Moreover, the conservation and
tourism uses of the Grand Canal should be included in overall urban planning to enhance
the connectivity of the canal to the wider urban space in Beijing. Meanwhile, heritage
interpretation should be diversified both in contents and in the modes [36], so that integral
values of the canal can be conveyed through tourism, which could not only enhance the
tourism experience, but also support the canal conservation.
Finally, to respond to the increasing demands of tourists and residents on water space
and activities, it is necessary to increase the leisure spaces along the waterfront areas along
the Grand Canal Beijing. Furthermore, considering the increasing demand for a variety of
water-based activities, water sports operations by professional sports companies should be
facilitated to cater to the increasing need for water activities, particularly in the summer.
Safety insurance infrastructures and measures also need to be developed for water activities
or sports, such as swimming or boating.

5. Conclusions
Despite the increasing number of academic papers on climate change and tourism,
water heritage tourism under climate change is still an under-researched topic. Moreover,
the adaptation theory, as an important coping strategy for climate change, requires addi-
tional attention in tourism research, which was considered in this study. With the Grand
Canal Beijing section as an example, this study draws data from multiple sources as guided
by the adaptation theory. Insights for water heritage tourism and sustainable development
under climate change were provided.
As a water heritage site with outstanding cultural and natural values, the Grand Canal
Beijing Section serves as an important leisure and tourism space for tourists and residents
and is vulnerable to climatic impacts. On a decade scale, evidence for climatic changes in
Beijing has been identified, particularly in precipitation and temperature, which would
stimulate changes in tourism use patterns. Such changes triggered actions on the canal
management and shifted demands for tourism uses along the canal. Accordingly, measures
Sustainability 2023, 15, 7630 16 of 17

were proposed to promote the conservation of the Grand Canal, enhance its contribution to
urban development, and promote viable canal tourism.
In contrast to previous studies that focused on the negative impacts of climate change,
this study took a more neutral perspective and explored how a changing climate affects
water heritage tourism with a good applicability. The resilience of water heritage enables it
to adapt to constantly changing situations compared with other types of heritage. Mean-
while, the natural and cultural properties of water heritage have demonstrated a high
potential to meet people’s needs for water-related activities under climate change. Thus,
this study provides a new perspective to view the impacts of climate change positively and
to take action.
This study strove to draw a variety of data sources to illustrate the intricate rela-
tionships between heritage tourism and climatic changes. However, there were several
limitations. First, as a linear heritage, there are multiple spots along the canal with different
recreational and tourism uses, which complicated the analysis of its tourism demands. Sec-
ond, climate change is among the most complex and intricate environmental issues globally.
Data on temperature and precipitation were used as indicators due to data availability, and
which do not fully reflect the status of climate change. In the future, more indicators such
as greenhouse gas concentrations, the rise of sea level, or the number of extreme weather
events should be included. In addition, besides tourism demand and activity participation,
the impacts of climate change on the environmental behavior as well as the cultural identity
of tourists and local residents are worthy of further study.

Author Contributions: J.W. and M.S. drafted the manuscript, M.W. conducted the data analysis and
visualization, H.D. (Haohan Dou) participated in the fieldwork and carried out part of the research,
M.S. and J.W. developed the research framework, and H.D. (Hangyu Dong) and Z.L. participated in
the fieldwork. All authors have read and agreed to the published version of the manuscript.
Funding: This work was supported by the Beijing Philosophy and Social Sciences Project (21GLB026).
Institutional Review Board Statement: Not applicable.
Informed Consent Statement: Informed consent was obtained from all subjects involved in the study.
Data Availability Statement: The data are available from the corresponding author upon reason-
able request.
Acknowledgments: Sincere thanks to all the interviewees for their participation in the research.
Conflicts of Interest: The authors declare no conflict of interest.

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