Leveraging Cultural Heritage to Promote Tourism through the Historical Tree Trail on Sichang Island, Chonburi Province, Thailand

Abstract

Sichang Island, located in Koh Sichang District, Chonburi Province, Thailand, is home to Phra Chudadhuj Palace and Asdangkawan Park, both of which were established during the reign of King Rama V. The palace and park contain a significant number of historic trees, many of which date back to the period of royal occupancy. These trees, as part of the island’s cultural and natural heritage, hold immense historical and ecological value. However, due to insufficient maintenance and limited local awareness of their significance, these trees face degradation and the risk of being lost over time. This study explores the role of historic trees in fostering cultural heritage tourism on Sichang Island and examines strategies for their conservation, management, and integration into sustainable tourism initiatives.

A participatory research approach was employed, incorporating community involvement in the identification, evaluation, and promotion of the island’s historic trees. This included collaboration with local schools, community members, and cultural entrepreneurs to assess perceptions of these trees’ value and their potential as tourism assets. The research process was structured into several key phases:

1. Survey and assessment of historic trees:
A comprehensive survey was conducted to document the current condition of historic trees in Phra Chudadhuj Palace and Asdangkawan Park. This included identifying species, assessing health status, and tracing historical changes in tree populations.
2. Integration into art education:
Secondary school students at Koh Sichang School participated in art classes integrating the concepts of natural and cultural capital. The program culminated in a public exhibition showcasing students’ artistic interpretations of historic trees and their significance.
3. Community engagement and focus group discussions:
Local cultural entrepreneurs and community members participated in focus groups to discuss natural and cultural heritage assets. These discussions helped gauge public awareness of the value of historic trees and their potential role in sustainable tourism.
4. Public Exhibition on Historic Trees and Medicinal Plants:
A public exhibition was organized to highlight the historic trees of Phra Chudadhuj Palace and Asdangkawan Park, alongside an exhibit featuring local medicinal plants. This initiative aimed to educate visitors on the historical and ecological significance of the trees while promoting traditional botanical knowledge.

5. Development of a cultural heritage map:
A cultural map of Sichang Island was created, identifying key tourist attractions, including locations of significant historic trees. The map serves as a valuable resource for tourists and local stakeholders interested in exploring the island’s cultural heritage.
6. Establishment of the 'See Sichang' cultural heritage tourism route:
A thematic tourism route was developed, incorporating historic trees as focal points. Pilot tours were conducted to assess the route’s viability and appeal to quality tourists seeking cultural and ecological experiences.
7. Interpretive signage for historic trees:
Informational signage was designed and installed at key locations, providing historical background and scientific details about prominent historic trees. This effort enhances visitor engagement and promotes educational tourism.
8. Compilation of historical and educational materials:
Historical data on Phra Chudadhuj Palace, Asdangkawan Park, and their historic trees were compiled into a teaching manual and an e-book. These resources support local education initiatives and contribute to broader public awareness of the island’s heritage.
9. Promotion and dissemination of cultural heritage information:
The project involved the dissemination of information about the historic trees and cultural heritage of Sichang Island to tourists and the wider public. Outreach efforts included digital platforms, local exhibitions, and community workshops to increase visibility and appreciation of the island’s unique heritage.

The study’s preliminary findings indicate that the proposed cultural heritage route holds strong potential as a tourist attraction. Phra Chudadhuj Palace, with its rich historical significance, demonstrates high tourism potential, while Asdangkawan Park and its historic trees offer a moderately attractive yet promising addition to the tourism experience. These findings suggest opportunities for further development, particularly in enhancing the cultural value of Asdangkawan Park and leveraging its historic trees as a central feature in the tourism framework.

To ensure the long-term success of this initiative, a collaborative management model involving local stakeholders, cultural entrepreneurs, and tourism professionals is recommended. Strengthening local engagement in conservation efforts can foster a sense of ownership and pride in the island’s cultural heritage, ensuring that historic trees are preserved as living monuments to the past. This approach aligns with sustainable tourism principles and contributes to the broader objectives of cultural heritage preservation and economic development on Sichang Island.

The theoretical foundation of this study integrates community-based analysis and social network theory, emphasizing the role of local engagement in cultural heritage conservation. The research draws on concepts such as community identity formation, social cohesion, and collaborative governance, recognizing the interconnected relationships among community members, local authorities, and tourism stakeholders. By fostering community participation in cultural heritage management, this study demonstrates the potential of historic trees as more than ecological assets; they serve as cultural symbols that connect the past with the present, offering meaningful experiences for residents and visitors alike.

This research contributes to the growing body of literature on cultural heritage tourism and highlights the importance of participatory approaches in heritage conservation. The findings underscore the need for interdisciplinary collaboration, combining historical research, environmental conservation, and tourism management to create a holistic strategy for sustaining cultural landscapes. Future research could explore the economic impact of heritage tourism on local communities and investigate additional measures to enhance visitor engagement with historic sites.

In conclusion, the preservation and promotion of historic trees on Sichang Island represent a valuable opportunity to strengthen cultural heritage tourism while fostering environmental awareness and local community involvement. By leveraging the island’s rich historical legacy and natural assets, this initiative paves the way for a sustainable tourism model that honors the past while embracing the future.