Therapeutic Landscapes in Rural Tourism: How Flow Experience, Nostalgia, and Restorative Experience Contribute to Spiritual Well-Being

Abstract

This study explores the role of therapeutic landscapes in rural tourism. While previous research has highlighted the relational nature of therapeutic landscapes, quantitative studies remain scarce, especially with respect to how therapeutic landscape experiences evolve dynamically. To address this gap, we propose a multiple mediation model that explores how flow experience, nostalgia, and restorative experience jointly influence the relationship between therapeutic landscape perception and spiritual well-being. Using three-wave survey data from 352 tourists visiting rural destinations in China, our findings confirm that therapeutic landscape perception positively influences spiritual well-being. Furthermore, this effect is mediated through two distinct pathways: a cognitive chain-mediating effect of flow experience and restorative experience and an emotional chain-mediating effect involving nostalgia and restorative experience. By expanding on existing research, this study enriches the understanding of therapeutic landscapes in rural tourism and offers valuable guidance for creating destinations that promote tourists' well-being.