This study aims to critically examine the design and evaluation of human–AI interactive visualisation systems in authentically representing, communicating, and revitalising Chinese intangible cultural heritage. Employing a quasi-experimental research design with survey-based data collection, the study engaged 300 university students selected through stratified sampling. The findings reveal that human–AI collaboration offers significant opportunities for enhancing the preservation, transmission, and reinterpretation of China’s intangible cultural heritage through interactive visual representations. Aesthetic appreciation emerged as a key determinant of user engagement, which, in turn, positively influenced cultural learning outcomes. Additionally, system usability was identified as the second most influential factor contributing to user engagement and satisfaction. The results further indicate that user-friendly AI-based interactive navigation systems foster deeper engagement, leading to enhanced user satisfaction and more effective cultural learning experiences. Overall, the study underscores user engagement as a critical predictor of cultural learning, suggesting that active user participation in AI-driven visualisation processes facilitates greater retention and understanding of intangible cultural heritage.
