Methodology
In order to understand such impact, the authors conducted two weeks of fieldwork (15–28 July 2011) in Qingkou and neighbouring hamlets (Dayutang, Quanfuzhuang and Malizhai). The fieldwork was a combination of participant observation, focus group discussion, key informant interviews and field excursions. The authors began with landscape observation at multiple sites to understand land use practices and changes. Interviews with villagers and officials were then conducted to triangulate the initial findings. To further elaborate on the impact of tourism development on land use changes, a focus group meeting was held in Qingkou, which was attended by representatives of different age, gender and economic status. The fieldwork coincided with the Kuqzaqzaq Festival (also known as Swinging Festival), which usually takes place in the sixth month of the Chinese lunar calendar to pray for good harvest. As many migrant workers came back for this important festival, the authors had the chance to talk with them about their livelihood choices and attitudes towards farming in the rice terraces. The festival also provided insight into the traditional practices and cultural institutions in the stewardship of the Hani Rice Terraces as well as the potential threats to their future vitality. Following the fieldwork, the first author continued desk research to place the case study within the wider policy context. Comparisons were made between the Hani Rice Terraces and the Ifugao Rice Terraces to identify similar challenges and possible solutions.