Expert Perspectives on Mountain Tourism in Asia Pacific

09-01-25

Mountain tourism in the Asia-Pacific region has experienced significant growth in recent years, positioning itself as a key segment within the global tourism market. However, it also faces unique challenges that require innovative and sustainable approaches. The recent International Mountain Tourism Alliance (IMTA) Annual Conference, held in Xingyi, Guizhou Province, China, addressed these issues under the theme “Inclusivity, Mutual Learning, Innovation: Empowering Sustainable Mountain Tourism with New Productive Forces.” This event brought together experts, industry leaders and stakeholders to discuss the future of this evolving industry.

Mountain tourism has been a significant source of income for many Asia-Pacific countries, attracting millions of visitors each year thanks to its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural diversity. The region is home to some of the world's most iconic mountain destinations, including the Himalayas, the Japanese Alps, the mountains of New Zealand and the Guilin Hills in China. These unique landscapes offer activities such as hiking, mountaineering, skiing and ecotourism, attracting adventurers and nature lovers alike.

In recent years, the growing popularity of sustainable tourism has placed a greater emphasis on mountain destinations. Modern travelers are looking for authentic and environmentally friendly experiences, which has led governments and tourism companies to invest in green infrastructure and programs that promote environmental conservation.

During the conference, participants highlighted the importance of innovation as an essential driver for the growth of mountain tourism. Innovative initiatives were presented, such as the creation of “Integrated Mountain Tourism” systems, which seek to connect mountain destinations through sustainable routes and digital platforms that enhance the visitor experience. These initiatives promote not only the economic development of local communities, but also cultural exchange and mutual learning between different regions.

In addition, the importance of involving local communities in tourism development was discussed. This not only fosters social inclusion, but also ensures that economic benefits are distributed equitably, supporting populations that depend on mountain resources for their livelihoods. Empowering these communities is key to building inclusive and sustainable tourism.

Sustainability was a central theme in the IMTA discussions. Mountain tourism faces pressure to balance economic growth with environmental conservation. Mountains are fragile ecosystems, and unplanned tourism can cause irreparable damage, such as deforestation, soil erosion and biodiversity loss.

IMTA has consistently upheld principles such as “ecological priority, green development and collaboration”. These values have guided the development of programs that promote responsible practices, such as proper waste management, efficient use of resources and protection of endangered species. In addition, the importance of educating visitors about the need to respect mountain ecosystems and minimize their ecological footprint was emphasized.

One of the current challenges is to rebuild tourism economies in a resilient and sustainable manner. This involves fostering high-performance tourism, focused on attracting visitors who contribute significantly to economic development while respecting the natural environment. In addition, strategies must include measures to ensure health safety and build traveler confidence.

The future of mountain tourism in Asia-Pacific will depend on the ability of industry players to adapt to global changes and challenges. Technological innovation, such as the use of digital platforms to promote destinations, and public-private partnerships will be critical to sustain growth. Likewise, the adoption of sustainable practices and the integration of local communities in the development process will ensure that this growth is inclusive and beneficial for all.

In the words of Dominique de Villepin, president of IMTA, mountain tourism must not only be a tool for economic growth, but also a means to strengthen the connection between people and nature. By adopting principles of inclusiveness, mutual learning and innovation, the region has the potential to lead a model of sustainable mountain tourism that inspires the world.