Rural Tourism and Sustainable Development Research: Bibliometric Insights

This study presents a bibliometric review of research on Rural Tourism and Sustainable Development published between 2015 and 2026, using a PRISMA-guided selection process and performance-based bibliometric indicators. Data were retrieved from the Scopus database using the keyword strategy “Rural Tourism” AND “Sustainable Development”. Following screening and eligibility restrictions (English language; article type; and subject area limits to Social Sciences, Business/Management/Accounting, and Economics/Finance), 1,386 articles were included for analysis. Results show strong growth in research output up to 2025, high collaboration intensity, concentration of publications in a few outlets (notably Sustainability), and a geographically dominant contribution led by China. Thematic mapping indicates that “sustainable development” and “rural tourism” remain central motor themes, while some geographically anchored and method-driven themes appear emerging.