Optimization of Heritage Management Mechanisms through the Prism of Historic Urban Landscape: A Case Study of the Xidi and Hongcun World Heritage Sites

Historic urban landscape (HUL) are essential for preserving the cultural continuity of traditional Chinese villages. Utilizing heritage management approaches to manage historic urban landscapes has significant implications for innovating the governance of these villages. This study used traditional Southern Anhui villages as empirical case studies to determine the key heritage management principles of HUL governance. This underscores the public policy nature of urban heritage conservation and highlights the importance of balancing heritage conservation with sustainable development through the involvement of diverse stakeholders and interdisciplinary institutional instruments. This study examined the development history of heritage management in traditional villages in Southern Anhui, revealing the characteristics and challenges of four aspects: public participation, planning and guidance, legislation and regulation, and fiscal financing mechanisms. Furthermore, it proposed strategies for optimizing the heritage management mechanisms within the HUL framework.