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Article published In: Cognitive Linguistic Studies
Vol. 12:1 (2025) ► pp.159–185

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Cultural cognition and cultural identity

Evidence from linguistic landscape in internet‑famous attractions

 | Southwest University
 | Xinyi Primary School
Published online: 2 June 2025
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https://doi.org/10.1075/cogls.00132.yan
Abstract
Linguistic landscape is a tangible reflection of culture, with its core attribute being inherently cultural. At present, efforts to enhance cultural awareness and foster cultural identity among international students in China are largely centered on traditional classroom instruction, often overlooking the importance of cultural context, particularly the role of urban linguistic landscapes. This study undertakes field research to analyze the creation, classification, and modal selection of linguistic landscapes. By examining their functions and characteristics, it delves into the deeper cultural meanings embedded within them. The findings reveal that the linguistic landscapes at prominent urban sites emphasize the dominant ideologies, civilizational values of Chinese society, regional and folk cultures, as well as traditional spiritual and cultural heritage. These landscapes serve as vital vehicles for showcasing China’s national image and embodying its cultural essence. Effectively leveraging the educational potential of linguistic landscapes can enhance international students’ comprehension of Chinese culture and represent an innovative approach to promoting China’s narrative on the global stage.
Article outline
  • 1.Introduction
  • 2.Literature review
  • 3.Research methods and survey design
    • 3.1Selection of survey locations
    • 3.2Implementation of the survey
  • 4.Statistical classification and sample analysis
    • 4.1Classification statistics of linguistic landscapes
      • 4.1.1Official linguistic signs and private signs
      • 4.1.2Signs of different functional categories
      • 4.1.3Monomodal, bimodal, and multimodal signs
    • 4.2Functions and characteristics of linguistic landscape
      • 4.2.1Functions of linguistic landscape
        • Educational function of linguistic landscape
        • Cultural function of linguistic landscape
      • 4.2.2Characteristics of linguistic landscape
    • 4.3Cultural connotations of linguistic landscape
      • 4.3.1Linguistic landscape highlights mainstream thoughts and civilized trends in Chinese society
      • 4.3.2Linguistic landscape showcases regional and folk culture
        • i.Culinary culture
        • ii.Dock culture
        • iii.Teahouse culture
        • iv.Sichuan opera culture
        • v.Dialect culture
      • 4.3.3Linguistic landscape ulluminates Chinese traditional cultural heritage
        • i.Calligraphy culture
        • ii.Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) culture
        • iii.Signboard culture
          • a.Character signboards
          • b.Object signboards
          • c.Plaques
  • 5.Conclusion
  • Notes
  • References
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