Reimagining Sense of Place through Heritage Revitalization: A Comparative Study of Boshan Guyao Village and Taoxichuan in Jingdezhen

<p>The revitalisation of post-industrial heritage sites presents significant challenges in balancing historical preservation with contemporary redevelopment, particularly in maintaining the "sense of place." This study explores how revitalization strategies impact place identity and community belonging within former ceramic production landscapes in China. Through a comparative case study of Boshan Guyao Village in Shandong and Taoxichuan in Jingdezhen, it reveals how differing approaches to heritage renewal produce contrasting outcomes in cultural continuity, stakeholder engagement, and spatial authenticity. </p><p></p><p>Boshan Guyao Village has adopted a top-down revitalization model focused on architectural restoration and tourism development. This strategy has excluded residents and failed to support ceramic-related livelihoods, leading to diminished cultural identity and weakened place attachment. Issues such as cultural commodification, superficial representation of heritage, and community marginalization are particularly pronounced. </p><p></p><p>In contrast, Taoxichuan exemplifies a more integrated and participatory approach. It combines adaptive reuse with creative industry development, fosters multi-stakeholder collaboration, supports ongoing ceramic production, and embeds heritage into daily urban life. This has resulted in the reactivation of a living sense of place and the generation of both cultural and economic resilience. </p><p></p><p>The findings underscore the importance of inclusive governance, functional authenticity, and narrative continuity in heritage revitalization. This study concludes with strategic recommendations for enhancing Boshan’s revitalization through community participation, place-based livelihoods, and the restoration of ceramic culture as a living practice.</p>