The Dynamics of Tourism for All in China: An Analysis of Aesthetic Innovation and Smart Technologies for Developing Policy Guidelines for Thai Tourism
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Abstract
This research article pursues three main objectives: (1) to analyse the evolution and policy drivers of tourism for all in China; (2) to examine the integration of smart technologies and aesthetic innovation that can be applied to tourism; and (3) to synthesise ways in which China’s experience can be adapted to the Thai tourism context by proposing strategic directions for advancing tourism for all in Thailand. The study adopts a qualitative research design, drawing on non participatory observation and 10 informant informal interviews conducted at the Care and Rehabilitation Expo (CR Expo) 2025 in Beijing, People’s Republic of China, together with a systematic review of the literature and content analysis of promotional materials and media displayed at the event. The findings indicate that the evolution of tourism for all in China has been shaped by demographic transitions marked by the rapid growth of older adults and persons with disabilities as key market segments, alongside expanded tourism opportunities following China’s opening-up. Innovations in artificial intelligence and service robotics have been increasingly deployed to enhance access to tourism and related services for older adults and persons with disabilities in a substantive way. At the same time, there has been a deliberate promotion of the integration of art and aesthetics into the design of assistive devices and travel environments, with the aim of enriching cultural and aesthetic experiences, reducing social stigma, and reinforcing users’ sense of dignity. Building on these insights, the article synthesises policy lessons from the Chinese case to propose strategic pathways for developing tourism for all in Thailand, with particular emphasis on the design of policies that promote smart infrastructure and aesthetic innovation aligned with the country’s transition to an ageing society.
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