Tourists' Perceptions of Aboriginal Heritage Souvenirs

Abstract

Heritage souvenirs are an indispensable part of indigenous tourism and the authenticity of indigenous heritage is a vital aspect of such tourism. This study adopts a mixed methods approach to explore the perceived authenticity of glass bead souvenirs of the Paiwan Tribe in Pintung County, Taiwan. The study explores differences in the evaluations of authenticity among stakeholders and the factors that influence perceptions of authenticity. An understanding of tourists' perceptions of indigenous heritage offers valuable information for the creation of indigenous souvenirs and for reviving the promotion of indigenous culture.

Keywords:

• aboriginal tourism
• heritage tourism
• tourism souvenirs
• perceived authenticity

Acknowledgement

The first author is grateful for the funding support provided by the National Science Council of Taiwan (99-2410-H-034-054).