FILSAFAT, PARIWISATA DAN BUDAYA: MENAFSIR ULANG ZIARAH, KEARIFAN LOKAL DAN IDENTITAS DALAM PRAKTIK WISATA BERKELANJUTAN KONTEMPORER

Abstract

This article examines how philosophical perspectives illuminate the relationships between tourism, culture and contemporary quests for meaning. The objectives are: (1) to conceptualise tourism as an existential journey shaped by cultural identities and spiritual longings; (2) to analyse the role of local wisdom and religious–philosophical traditions in supporting sustainable, ethical tourism; and (3) to propose a value‑based framework for cultural and spiritual tourism. Methodologically, the paper uses qualitative philosophical analysis supported by selective case studies of cultural, religious and wellness tourism, drawing on concepts such as performative identity, pilgrimage, posthumanism, local wisdom and wellness philosophies. The analysis thematically compares Western and non‑Western traditions, showing how ideas like Balinese Tat Twam Asi, Nusantara turtle symbolism, classical Greek–Roman stewardship and Muslim-friendly ethics can counter consumerism, nihilism and cultural homogenisation in mass tourism. Tourism is interpreted as a site where individuals negotiate self-transformation, intercultural encounter and moral responsibility toward humans, animals and environments.  The article concludes that integrating philosophical reflection and local wisdom into tourism planning can foster more reflective travellers, empowered communities and culturally rooted, environmentally sustainable destinations.