Abstract ： As an indigenous philosophical system of fine traditional Chinese culture, the Five Elements Theory, with its systematic thinking of "generation, restriction, transformation and subjugation", people-oriented core of "being human with a dedicated mind" and developmental wisdom of "pattern overcoming desire", constitutes the core carrier of China's local governance logic. As a model for the practice of "One Country, Two Systems", Macao has the regional characteristics of "rooted in China and integrating Chinese and Western cultures", which determines that compared with Western governance theories based on instrumental rationality, China's indigenous Five Elements Theory has stronger adaptability and empowering value. Based on this core cognition, this paper reconstructs the modern developmental logic of the Five Elements Theory. Combined with the current international situation and the characteristics of Macao's cultural tourism industry, it explores the inherent compatibility between the attribute orientation of the Five Elements Theory — "Earth represents perseverance, Wood symbolizes vitality, Fire stands for courage, Metal embodies sharpness, and Water signifies flexibility" — and Macao's institutional practice, industrial transformation and cultural identity. It also verifies the practical effect of the "Earth restricting Water" principle of "pattern being superior to desire" in helping Macao resist risks and achieve sustainable development. The research shows that taking the Five Elements Theory as the local philosophical foundation can not only strengthen the cultural connection between Macao and the motherland, but also provide differentiated paths for Macao's cultural tourism upgrading, industrial diversification and social governance. It is an important spiritual support and practical guide for Macao's long-term development under the "One Country, Two Systems" framework.
张弘驰 Hongchi Zhang (2025) studied this question.