Cultural Heritage Area Development Based on the Book “Old Photos Narrate the Legends of Taphan Hin” Towards Cultural Tourism in Phichit Province

Abstract

The objectives of this study were: 1) to investigate the current issues of cultural tourism areas in Taphan Hin District, Phichit Province; 2) to develop cultural lifestyle areas in Taphan Hin District for cultural tourism in Phichit Province; and 3) to enhance cultural tourism models based on the book “Old Photos and Tales of Taphan Hin Legends” toward cultural tourism in Phichit Province. Qualitative Research. The study employed purposive sampling to select 15 key informants. The research instrument was a structured interview form, and data were analyzed using content analysis. The results revealed that:

1) The early groups of Chinese and Thai Phuan settlers who migrated into Taphan Hin District preserved their traditional cultural way of life and passed down their cultural heritage from generation to generation through demonstration and practice. At present, however, the major challenge lies in the lack of enthusiasm among the younger generation, who have not yet recognized the importance of promoting local-based tourism. More critically, there is an absence of consistent government support, as well as a lack of participatory community networks.

2) The community has developed a new generation of individuals to recognize and appreciate their ancestral history, while adapting traditional belief-based activities to align with social changes. Moreover, the cultural lifestyle is creatively preserved through a "community museum" as a foundation for cultural tourism.

3) Additional activities supporting cultural tourism are manifested in the form of traditional restaurants, walking streets, and the presence of Thai Phuan ethnic groups in nearby areas. These include cultural expressions such as the Kam Fa tradition and local woven textile products.