Cultural Heritage Tourism in Indonesia: An Ethnographic Study of Sustainable Development and Community Participation

Abstract

Abstract: This ethnographic study examines the complex dynamics of cultural heritage tourism in Indonesia, focusing on the interplay between sustainable development initiatives and local community participation. Through immersive fieldwork conducted across three distinct Indonesian destinations—Yogyakarta, Toraja, and Ubud—this research reveals how traditional communities navigate the challenges and opportunities presented by tourism development. The study employed participant observation, in-depth interviews, and cultural mapping techniques over an 18-month period. Findings indicate that while tourism generates significant economic benefits, successful implementation requires genuine community engagement, cultural preservation mechanisms, and adaptive management strategies. The research contributes to understanding how indigenous knowledge systems can inform sustainable tourism practices in Southeast Asian contexts, offering implications for policy makers and tourism practitioners seeking to balance economic development with cultural authenticity.

Keywords: cultural heritage tourism, sustainable development, community participation, Indonesia, ethnography