Abstract: Place theory,as a comprehensive theoretical framework,provides a core analytical lens for examining the spatial practices,social connections,and identity construction in rural tourism communities through its profound interpretation of the “human-place-meaning” interaction. The case study of Puzhehei Village of three decades in tourism development deconstructs the three dimensions of local development in rural tourism communities from a place theory perspective by employing qualitative research methods including field surveys, semi-structured interviews, and textual analysis,and drawing on Japan's concept of regional revitalization. A path for local revitalization to address the current crises in Puzhehei, including imbalanced material landscapes, increasingly complex and contradictory social relations, and diminishing spiritual identity has been proposed. At the material level, the path emphasizes preserving local authenticity and enhancing the expression of landscape locality. At the social level,the path advocates reconstructing community connections and cultivating villagers as innovative business entities. At the spiritual level, the path focuses on reshaping local identity and promoting the local reproduction of spiritual homeland practices.

Key words: place theory, rural tourism community, regional revitalization, Puzhehei