Metaverse Technology in Cultural Heritage Communication of Global Cities: A Comparative Study of Kyoto, Mexico City, and Edinburgh

Authors

  • Sofia Mendez

    School of Communication and Culture, National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM), Mexico City 04510, Mexico

Keywords:

Metaverse technology; Cultural heritage communication; Global cities; Virtual reality; Immersive tours; Cross-cultural engagement; Kyoto; Mexico City; Edinburgh; Cultural authenticity

Abstract

This study explores how metaverse tech (VR, AR, 3D modeling, blockchain artifacts) shapes cultural heritage communication (virtual exhibitions, immersive tours, interactive storytelling) in Kyoto (Japan), Mexico City (Mexico), Edinburgh (UK)—cities with rich cultural legacies. Using mixed methods (content analysis of 2,800 metaverse heritage artifacts, surveys of 3,600 global users, interviews with 30 practitioners), it identifies cross-cultural differences in metaverse adoption, engagement, and authenticity preservation. Results: Kyoto focuses on "traditional ritual immersion" (62% East Asian users); Mexico City on "indigenous heritage interactivity" (58% Latin American users); Edinburgh on "historical narrative integration" (45% European users). 78% of respondents accessed heritage they couldn’t visit in person. It develops a "Metaverse Heritage Communication Framework" for heritage orgs, policymakers, and developers.

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Issue

Vol. 1 No. 1 (September 2025)

Section

Articles