This research explores ethnic tourism attractions. Two cases in China and Canada are compared and analysed to provide insights into the sustainability of this kind of tourism practice. Attention is directed toward the attractions’s development processes, social/cultural issues, and development strategies. A qualitative approach is used to interview fifteen individuals from the state, tourism business, and ethnic groups. The interview data are supplemented with field notes and printed documents. Findings suggest that ethnic tourism attractions do offer promising mechanisms, but sustainability depends on a delicate balance between economic and cultural interests. Failure to achieve this balance may result in an unsuccessful commercial venture or in a substantial decline in ethnic culture ending with assimilation.
