The Chiang Mai Local Food In History and Tourism

Abstract

Food culture is the product of human will which is invented for a living or to represent a cultural identity that emphasizes its distinction from other societies. In addition, food culture is related to food formulation, food preparation and eating habits as well as being used as a tool to respond to social situations for all periods. It can be seen that Chiang Mai local food is the part of the history that still exists in daily life of Chiang Mai people and it has been flowing with social dynamics or trends which is used to create tourism activities. Chiang Mai local food, therefore plays a role in society in the historical and tourism dimensions.

This article aims to present an analytical study of the Chiang Mai local food role for responding to social systems in both history and tourism of Chiang Mai Province. The content analysis method in terms of social science process, consists of 4 main areas; 1) Fundamental of Chiang Mai food culture, 2) Roles of Chiang Mai food, 3) Chiang Mai's food in tourism period, and 4) Local food and tourism experience in Chiang Mai. The results emphasize on the role of the local food as the food culture in terms of Khantok which reflects to the aesthetic power of creating the tourism experience. Since the local food culture has not been prosperous, this culture should be promoted for Chiang Mai tourism in order to create various kinds of local food.