Enhancing Rural Development Effectiveness through Tourism Scenario Innovation: A Mediation Analysis Based on Resident Participation

Abstract

Against the backdrop of China’s deepening rural revitalization strategy, tourism scenario innovation has emerged as a pivotal mechanism for stimulating rural economies and advancing overall rural development. Drawing on the Ladder of Citizen Participation, this study conducts field investigations and empirical analysis in selected representative villages in Zhejiang Province. It aims to uncover the mediating role of resident participation across different types of tourism scenarios and to examine its influence on rural development effectiveness. From the perspective of tourism scenario innovation, this research systematically elucidates the mechanisms through which resident participation mediates the relationship between scenario innovation and development outcomes. The findings contribute to a clearer understanding of how to enhance rural development effectiveness and provide targeted pathways for empowering resident participation across diverse rural tourism contexts.