A CiteSpace Analysis on Mapping International Research Trends on Chinese Traditional Culture (1999–2019)

Abstract

As China's influence continues to grow on the global stage, its rich cultural heritage has garnered increasing attention from researchers worldwide. This study employs CiteSpace, a visualization tool for bibliometric analysis, to explore the international research landscape of Chinese traditional culture over the past two decades (1999–2019). By examining 866 relevant articles retrieved from the Web of Science, this study aims to provide insights into the general state of research, the most influential works, emerging themes, and the role of funding agencies in supporting these studies. The findings reveal a significant increase in research output, particularly after 2013, reflecting heightened global interest in Chinese culture. The research spans a range of disciplines, from philosophy and social sciences to health and tourism, highlighting the interdisciplinary nature of the field. Key trends include a growing focus on topics such as Chinese traditional medicine, cultural values, intercultural communication, and the concept of "harmony" . The study also identifies the leading authors, journals, and funding agencies contributing to this field, with China, the USA, and Canada emerging as primary supporters. The findings offer valuable insights for scholars, policymakers, and funding bodies interested in furthering the global exchange of Chinese cultural knowledge.