Academics are urging the preservation of the ecological and cultural integrity of Guizhou’s Tunbu culture as the province seeks to leverage it as a tourism attraction. These concerns were highlighted during the 2025 Tunbu Cultural Conference held recently. Professor Qian Liqun from Peking University emphasized that any development of Tunbu culture, rooted in the history of military immigrants centuries ago, must prioritize the well-being of local communities. He cautioned against transforming the culture into a profit-driven spectacle disconnected from its origins. Tunbu culture, which emerged during the Ming Dynasty (1368–1644), represents a unique blend of Han traditions and local ethnic customs, evident in its clothing, fortress-style settlements, and dialect. Scholars regard it as a living testament to the cultural exchange between Han settlers and ethnic groups in Southwest China. Ming history expert Mao Peiqi underscored that the core values of Tunbu culture—loyalty, bravery, harmony, and integration—embody ethnic unity and sustainable development. In 2023, Tunbu culture was recognized as one of Guizhou’s four major cultural initiatives, encompassing archaeological research, heritage preservation, and cultural-tourism integration. Xie Nian, deputy head of the provincial publicity department, reaffirmed the commitment to a protection-first approach, emphasizing rational use and minimal intervention.