Content of research

In Southeast Asia, there are many archaeological sites such as the Angkor complex (Cambodia) and Borobudur (Indonesia). Faced with political turmoil and crises caused by natural disasters such as the Sumatra earthquake and tsunami (2004), each country has been working to preserve and utilize these sites. Tourism used to be considered dangerous as it would have a negative impact on the sites, but since the adoption of the International Charter on Culture and Tourism in 1999, it has come to be seen as an essential part of cultural heritage preservation. For example, in the Angkor Complex, which attracts more than 2 million tourists a year, the tourism industry has become an important means of earning foreign currency at the national level, and the revenue from tourists is used for the conservation of the vast ruins. On the other hand, the balance between the ever-increasing number of tourists and the preservation of the monuments has become increasingly complicated due to the local environment, economy and other issues.

Potential for social implementation

• ・Urban development through the preservation of historical townscape and tourism through exchanges between Padang (Indonesia) and Hakodate (joint research by Bung Hatta University, Tohoku Institute of Technology, Kindai University, and Hokkaido University of Education)
• ・Conservation of Monuments and Tourism at the Angkor World Heritage Site (Research Exchange with APSARA Organization)

Appealing points to industry and local governments

The issues of conservation and utilization of cultural heritage and tourism are intricately intertwined with the historical background of the country or region. Through interdisciplinary research by experts in various fields and collaboration with various organizations, we will address issues facing the international society and local communities.