Title: An ethnic enclave transformed into a tourism enclave under globalisation in Taiwan

Authors: Wei-Cheng Lin

Addresses: Department of Program of Environment, Tourism and Recreation Studies, National Chunghua University of Education, No. 1, Jinde Rd., Changhua City, Changhua County, Taiwan

Abstract: Rapid globalisation and increased tourism activities in the Sun Moon Lake, Taiwan for decades have created incompatibility of land uses in most aborigine (Thao people) living areas. Coupled with rising ethnic consciousness and demand for aborigine protection, a better mechanism in resolving land use conflicts between aborigines and business is called for. This paper examines the land use conflict between ethnic enclave and tourism enclave at Sun Moon Lake in Taiwan. Originally planned as a cultural heritage site of the Thao people, the protecting area was rezoned to build a hotel. The interest group, in fear of declining land advantage, used all political means to overturn the decision. Arriving at an impasse and zero-sum game, all stakeholders were not able to resolve. Through case study approach method, this paper examines the interests involved and offers a future solution.

Keywords: Taiwan; Sun Moon Lake; Thao people; ethnic enclaves; tourism enclaves; globalisation; land use conflict; aborigine protection; case study; ethnic minorities; cultural heritage.

DOI: 10.1504/IJLSE.2013.060847

International Journal of Liability and Scientific Enquiry, 2013 Vol.6 No.4, pp.247 - 256

Published online: 02 Jul 2014 *

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