Evolution of Tourism Research in China after the Millennium: Changes in Research Themes, Methods, and Researchers

This study aims to examine the evolution of tourism research in China after the millennium in terms of research themes, methods/methodologies, and researcher profiles. Reviewing 2,078 research articles published in the leading Chinese tourism journal Tourism Tribune, the study identified a transition of focus from industry supply issues to market demand/consumer behavior issues in research themes; quantitative studies adopting positivism/post-positivism were increasing. Within a relatively young research community in age, female researchers seem to claim the majority in the next generation. Multiple-author collaborations and publishing also appear to be the norm of tourism research practices in China.