Nan... From Transit Town to Creative City

Amid the trend of urban development that is focused on “creativity,” Nan is demonstrating how this small town has the potential to use its cultural capital to achieve change. The Nan Cultural Learning Tourism project is not just a festival; it’s the “opening of a door” to sustainable urban development, with cultural capital as its core.

From “Cultural Capital” to “Economic Value”

This project aims to leverage cultural heritage, particularly handicrafts and folk arts, in order to enhance economic growth and urban development. Turning “the unique identity of Nan” into cultural products and tourism experiences creates tangible added value.

“Creative City” Made Tangible: Preparing for Change

The specific goal of this project is to prepare the public for and to jointly promote the transformation of Nan towards becoming a creative city, a key objective for Nan after being nominated as Thailand’s representative for UNESCO Creative Cities Network membership this year. The opening of learning spaces and promotion of cultural tourism in the Khuang Noi area and various tourism routes, including those focused on local handicrafts, cuisine, heritage, communities, and religious sites, reflects the development of learning tourism and the presentation of Nan’s unique identity, which are crucial for creative and cultural tourism development under the national strategy and aligned with the promotion of creative activities and projects in the old city area.

“The Power of Participation”

The presence of Mrs. Wilaiwan Budasa, Deputy Governor of Nan Province, who presided over the opening ceremony, demonstrates the support of government agencies, a key sector in driving a creative city. The participation of Father Arunsin Duangmoon, a master teacher of local music performance and instrument making who passes on knowledge to youth, provides support for craftsmanship capacity building. Moreover, the exhibition of cultural products and local wisdom promotes creative products and supports local entrepreneurs as a major part of the strategy to create economic benefits.

“Strong Network”: Building Collaboration for the Future

Organizing activities that coordinate various learning resources and promote tourism across multiple routes demonstrates the efforts to build a collaborative network among the various sectors in Nan, which is essential for the city’s sustainability.

Nan... Not Just an “Old Town” but a “City of the Future”

As a result, the “Nan Cultural Learning Tourism” project represents a tangible example of practical implementation that focuses on the use of cultural capital to promote the economy, raise awareness of the city’s identity, prepare for the achievement of creative city status, and promote sustainable tourism.

We extend our deepest gratitude to the เสน่ห์น่านวันนี้ Facebook page for the beautiful images they have graciously permitted us to use in this article.