Implications of the Use of Virtual Reality in Heritage Conservation

Abstract

The paper discusses the implications that the use of virtual reality may have on heritage tourism and heritage conservation. First, it looks at the concept of authenticity as it applies to digital heritage and VR. It proposes that constructivist, subjectivist and existentialist authenticities all have a degree of relevance to the experience of heritage in VR. Next, the paper utilizes a VR case study in Suzhou to gauge the user perception of authenticity and overall VR experience. The results demonstrate that VR may possess a degree of authenticity in and of itself, both from heritage conservation and heritage tourism perspectives. The paper then discusses the wider implications of this conclusion for different stakeholders.