Authenticity and place attachment as dual pathways for sustainable tourism in the historic Quanzhou West Street, China

Authenticity is a core attribute of historic streets, shaping both visitor experience and long-term destination sustainability. However, few studies have examined how multiple dimensions of authenticity influence place attachment in Chinese heritage contexts. This study investigates the relationships between object-related authenticity (tangible heritage features), existential authenticity (experiential engagement), and two components of place attachment-place identity and place dependence-using Quanzhou West Street, a UNESCO-listed heritage corridor, as a case study. A structured on-site survey of 309 domestic tourists was analyzed with structural equation modeling, supported by exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses to ensure measurement validity. Results demonstrate that both authenticity dimensions significantly and positively affect place identity and place dependence. Moreover, place identity mediates the link between authenticity and place dependence, suggesting that symbolic-emotional connections strengthen functional reliance on the site. These findings highlight that sustainable heritage tourism depends on protecting physical fabric while fostering authentic cultural experiences. Practical implications include integrating architectural conservation with participatory cultural programming, implementing visitor management to prevent over-commercialization, and involving local communities in governance. This study advances understanding of the dual pathways through which authenticity fosters attachment, offering guidance for sustainable management of historic urban landscapes.