This course aims to enable students to acquire a critical understanding of the theories and practices of cultural heritage by scrutinizing the ideas of “heritages” and its formation in recent decades, by mastering its definition with reference to UNESCO and other international organizations’ literature, and by examining how the ideas of cultural heritages are interpreted and put into practice in China. Students are expected to study the institutions concerned, to read the international conventions, national and local laws and regulations of China, and to acquire knowledge specific to selected tangible and intangible items through case studies. Students will be able to expand their horizon of knowledge about the cultural heritage, not only to appreciate the rich diversity of the cultural treasures but also to identify issues for its preservation, creative transformation, as well as political, economic and social implications. They are also encouraged to develop an informed critical and creative attitude towards cultural heritage.