Abstract
Traditional village cultural landscapes, as vital carriers of human civilization, face severe threats amid rapid urbanization. This study centers on Goulan Yao Village in Jiangyong County, China, applying cultural landscape gene theory combined with GIS spatial analysis. A gene information chain map and a village-specific classification and coding system were established to analyze spatial distribution and organizational patterns. Results show that the village reflects a rich cultural connotation shaped by the natural environment, religious beliefs, and ethnic customs. Its landscape gene distribution exhibits a "three-core, multi-node" pattern with dense clustering and mismatches between spatial accessibility and concentration. Based on these insights, a sustainable planning framework of "connotation preservation-spatial optimization-cultural tourism innovation" is proposed. This framework aims to offer both theoretical support and practical guidance for cultural landscape conservation and rural revitalization of Yao ethnic villages. The study not only extends the application of cultural landscape gene theory to ethnic minority settlements but also provides a methodological reference for the sustainable development of similar traditional settlements worldwide.