Classification and Spatial Pattern of Mongolian Ethno-Cultural Tourism Resources in the Republic of Buryatia (Russia)

The Mongolian culture is unique and attractive for its eco-friendly concept, and the Republic of Buryatia is a typical and representative region of this ethnic culture. Sustainable utilization of Mongolian ethno-cultural tourism resources has great significance on the promising and developing regional market of tourist services. In this study, Mongolian ethno-cultural tourism resources in the Republic of Buryatia were certified and classified in accordance with the Classification, Investigation and Evaluation of tourist resources of the Chinese National Standard GB/T 18972-2017. The spatial pattern of Mongolian ethno-cultural tourism resources in the CEZ BNT (Republic of Buryatia) was also revealed. The results showed that the Mongolian ethno-cultural tourism resources in Republic of Buryatia can be classified into 6 types and 23 subtypes, and the spatial distribution pattern is along the Lake Baikal and the main traffic lines. With the right approach to the organization and classification of ethno-cultural tourism resources, the cultural tourism industry can become the emerging power industry for the green sustainable development of the region and the country. The results will contribute to the protection and development of Mongolian ethno-cultural tourism resources, as well as promote the construction of the China–Mongolia–Russia economic corridor.