Spiritual Tourism on Mount Yunt (Manisa): The Obasya Example

Authors : Mehmet Ali Toprak, Gizem Ata, Meryem Birinci

Pages : 485-500

Doi:10.51800/ecd.1818392

View : 187 | Download : 244

Publication Date : 2025-12-30

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :This study investigates the spiritual tourism activities at Obasya, a rural development initiative located in the Yunt Mountain area of Manisa and evaluates the facility\\\'s economic impact. The research aims to explore the concept of spiritual tourism, which has emerged to address the psychological and spiritual needs of contemporary urban life, by focusing on the activities at the Obasya site in Manisa\\\'s Yunt Mountain region. The geographical focus is the Obasya tourism area, situated in Manisa’s Yunt Mountain region, seamlessly integrated with the natural environment and offering secular spiritual activities such as yoga, access bars, tarot, family constellation, laughter therapy, meditation, and tree hugging. Furthermore, the study assesses Obasya\\\'s role in rural development and its potential impact. Utilizing qualitative field research, this study examines spiritual practices at Obasya and evaluates its rural development potential. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with key informants—including a spiritual coach, the cooperative’s founder, and seven residents from nearby villages—focusing on spiritual practices, visitor profiles, and Obasya’s socio-economic impact. Data were analyzed using descriptive content analysis. Adopting a qualitative research methodology, this study employs field research to concentrate on the spiritual practices conducted at the Obasya facility. It is noted that the Obasya facility has not yet fully developed economic connections with its neighboring area. Although some initiatives have been undertaken, additional projects are needed to establish the relationships that will promote rural development.
Keywords : spiritüel turizm, Kırsal kalkınma, Yunt Dağı, Obasya, Manisa

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