Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the significance of China's 40-year journey in applying for World Heritage status, showcasing the protection of historical heritage and the responsibility towards future generations [2][4]. Group 1: World Heritage Application Journey - In 1987, China listed its first World Heritage sites, including the Great Wall and the Forbidden City, and has since reached a total of 60 sites, ranking second globally [1]. - The book "千山万水——中国申遗故事" outlines 11 representative cultural heritage sites, illustrating China's continuous cultural narrative over thousands of years [2]. Group 2: Cultural Heritage Protection - The article emphasizes the importance of systematic protection and unified supervision of cultural heritage as proposed in the 15th Five-Year Plan [2]. - Experts involved in the heritage application process share their experiences, highlighting the dedication and achievements in protecting world heritage [4][6]. Group 3: Case Studies of Heritage Sites - The Beijing Central Axis, which has been in the application process since 2012, exemplifies the deep exploration and interpretation of heritage value through rigorous documentation and expert discussions [5][6]. - Mount Lu, as China's first "cultural landscape" World Heritage site, showcases the interaction between humans and nature, reflecting the diversity of Chinese culture [7][8]. Group 4: Standards for World Heritage - The evaluation criteria for World Heritage status include authenticity, integrity, and good protection status, which are essential for the selection process [9]. - The Grand Canal is highlighted as a linear cultural heritage, emphasizing the need for community involvement in its protection and the importance of cultural continuity [9][10].

Group 1 - The recent archaeological survey of the Shu Road has produced the most accurate "Shu Road data" to date, marking a significant achievement in the "Archaeological China" project focused on linear cultural heritage [1] - The survey utilized a method of "connecting points with lines," emphasizing the documentation of the road heritage itself and collecting information within a 50-meter range on both sides of the Shu Road [1] - This project serves as a model for the investigation and protection of ancient roads and linear cultural relics in China, accumulating experience for collaborative archaeological efforts across regions and multiple units [1] Group 2 - Linear cultural heritage refers to material and immaterial cultural heritage groups located in linear or band-shaped areas with special cultural resources, including canals, roads, and railways [2] - Such heritage features a wide historical span, extensive geographical distribution, and diverse types, with notable examples including the Great Wall, Grand Canal, Silk Road, and Tea Horse Road [2] - The protection of linear cultural heritage requires a comprehensive, systematic, and holistic approach, emphasizing the importance of community participation to address challenges related to the dispersed nature of these heritage sites [2] Group 3 - There are over 7,500 Great Wall protectors across 15 provinces in China, who play a crucial role in monitoring, cleaning, and promoting awareness of the cultural heritage [3] - Legal frameworks and policies are essential for the protection and transmission of linear cultural heritage, alongside the active involvement of local communities [3] - Innovative exhibition methods and the use of digital technology can enhance public understanding and appreciation of cultural heritage, as demonstrated by the Yangzhou Grand Canal Museum [3] Group 4 - Linear cultural heritage connects extended spaces and flowing time, showcasing the distinctive characteristics of Chinese civilization [4] - These cultural treasures not only encapsulate historical changes but also continue to engage in dialogue between history and reality, contributing to the narrative of exchange and integration [4] - The ongoing efforts to strengthen the protection and transmission of cultural heritage will leave a lasting impact on future generations [4]