Abstract: Archaeological site parks represent a new model for historical sites preservation, seamlessly integrating large-scale site conservation with ongoing archaeological research. This method embodies distinct contemporary characteristics. The fundamental purpose of archaeological site parks is to safeguard cultural heritage. On August 1, 2025, the Yuanmou Man Site was included in the fifth shortlist of national archaeological site park projects. Against this backdrop, this paper first systematically elucidates the research value, historical value, social value, and economic value of archaeological excavation, conservation, and utilization of the Yuanmou Man Site by reviewing its development process, then proceeds to address practical challenges such as academic controversies, insufficient research utilization, weak management and lagging brand development, before proposing the following practical pathways: resolving academic disputes by shifting research paradigms, advancing research utilization to drive outcome transformation, enhancing protection and utilization through strengthened resource allocation, and building the “Yuanmou Man” brand through cultural development. These approaches offer theoretical references and practical insights for advancing site conservation research and fostering a shared sense of community for the Chinese nation.

Key words: Yuanmou Man Site, archaeological site park, conservation and utilization of cultural relic, exploration of the origins of Chinese civilization