China’s cultural clusters: main characteristics, challenges and development trends

In recent decades, cultural clusters in China have become an important tool for the development of the urban cultural economy, playing a key role in the transformation of urban spaces and the enhancement of accessibility to cultural services. They promote the integration of cultural resources, strengthen social cohesion, and create platforms for interaction between local communities and cultural institutions. However, the process of their formation is accompanied by a number of challenges, including uneven resource distribution, gentrification, and cultural conflicts, which necessitate a more balanced approach to their development. This work analyzes the main characteristics of cultural clusters in China, examines examples of successful projects such as the 798 Art District in Beijing and the Hua Mu Cultural Cluster in Shanghai, and provides recommendations for improving their efficiency and social inclusivity, including strengthening the role of local communities, sustainable resource management, and the preservation of cultural heritage.