Spatial distribution and pedigree age of traditional handicraft intangible cultural heritage in the Yellow River Basin

Driven by the third wave of craft revival, the multifaceted value of traditional handicraft intangible cultural heritage (ICH) is gaining increasing attention. However, the spatial correlation between traditional handicraft ICH and county-level economic development, along with its driving mechanisms, remains insufficiently explored. Based on the 4118 traditional handicraft ICH items spread across counties in the Yellow River Basin, this study integrates geospatial analysis to explore their spatial correlation and influencing factors. The findings reveal that: (1) Overall, a significant positive spatial correlation exists, dominated by Low-Low type agglomeration; (2) While individual ICH items have limited explanatory power for per capita gross domestic product, synergy with urbanization and policy support significantly enhances it; (3) Synergistic effects between ICH and tangible spatial carriers require strengthening. This study broadens the application of spatial production theory in cultural geography and provides a scientific spatial decision-making basis for productive practices of ICH in the basin.