A research on recognition and demand of urban residents about introduction of mountain ecotourism

Abstract

The survey on urban residents’ recognition and their demands was conducted in order to set the direction of mountain ecotourism as a new mountain village policy project of Korea Forest Service. This survey consists of the current situation, the demand, intention of participation, and the expected effects of mountain ecotourism. From 24th July to 15th August 2015, an online survey was conducted targeting 1000 adults over 18 residing in 16 urban and provincial areas. As a result of the major analysis, 75% of respondents answered that they visited mountain and rural villages for tourism and 88% intended to participate in mountain ecotourism. They revealed their intended times of participating: 46% of them intended to visit once a year and 32% twice a year. The respondents were willing to pay USD122 on average for total travel expenses. Regarding the demand for mountain ecotourism, 83% asked for improvement of accommodations and convenience facilities, 78% public relations and information offering, and 76% development of local tourism products. As for the expected effects of mountain ecotourism that were perceived high, 80% expected natural healing and health care. This research is expected to be utilized as baseline data for future mountain ecotourism policies reflecting urban residents’ demand.