Potensi Upacara Adat Kawin Cai Sebagai Daya Tarik Wisata Kabupaten Kuningan

Abstract

This study aims to examine the potential of the Cai Marriage Ceremony as a cultural tourism attraction in Kuningan Regency, West Java. This tradition is an intangible cultural heritage that has deep symbolic and spiritual values, and represents harmony between humans, nature, and ancestors. The research method used is descriptive qualitative with data collection techniques through observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation. The results show that the Cai Marriage Ceremony fulfills four main elements in cultural tourism, namely tourist objects, tourist attractions, narrative products, and tourism products. Sacred locations such as Balong Dalem Tirtayatra and the Cikembulan spring site are important tourist attractions, while traditional processions, Genjring Dog-dog performances, and community participation across generations are the main attractions. A narrative product explaining the history and symbolic meaning of the ceremony is presented in e-booklet format to help tourists better understand the cultural context. The tourism product offered includes cultural performances and direct interactions between tourists and traditional leaders. This research also includes a SWOT analysis to formulate a strategy for sustainable tourism development. Therefore, the Kawin Cai Traditional Ceremony has strong potential to be developed as a cultural tourism product that is not only visually appealing but also rich in educational value and local cultural preservation.