In the heart of China’s rapid urbanization lies a pressing challenge: the homogenization of landscapes, where cities and towns begin to look eerily similar, losing their unique character and cultural identity. This issue is particularly acute in geographically similar areas like the Yangtze River Delta, where flat terrain and gentle slopes have facilitated large-scale development, often at the expense of local distinctiveness. A recent study published in *Fengjing Yuanlin* (translated as *Scenic Gardens and Forests*) by Kaiyi Wu, a researcher affiliated with an undisclosed institution, offers a novel approach to address this problem, with significant implications for urban planning and regional competitiveness.
Wu’s research focuses on the Nanxun Area in Huzhou City, Zhejiang Province, a region emblematic of the Yangtze River Delta’s landscape challenges. The study aims to precisely identify and manage landscape control zones, a task complicated by the area’s geographical similarity to others and a lack of sufficient historical imagery data. “The goal is to preserve and enhance the unique character of urban and rural landscapes, which is crucial for fostering sustainable development and enhancing regional competitiveness,” Wu explains.
The research employs an innovative method that integrates landscape character assessment with semantic analysis of classical poetry. By using tools like ArcGIS, eCognition, Python, and Gephi, Wu identifies six distinct character zones in the Nanxun Area and reconstructs five historical scenes from the Ming and Qing dynasties. These scenes, such as “A Distant Voyage by Boat” and “Residing in Harmony with the Waterside,” provide a temporal context that helps understand the evolution and homogenization of the landscape.
One of the key findings is the cross-zone distribution of similar historical scenes, indicating a degree of landscape homogenization during the Ming and Qing dynasties. This homogenization is likely due to the spread of pond-dike reclamation techniques and the concentric distribution pattern of commercial trading centers and surrounding settlements. Conversely, the co-occurrence of multiple historical scenes within the same character zone highlights areas that require precise control, particularly those located at water transport hubs.
The commercial impacts of this research are substantial. In an era where regional attractiveness and competitiveness are paramount, preserving and enhancing local landscape character can significantly boost tourism, real estate development, and cultural heritage industries. “By accurately delineating character control zones, planners and developers can create spaces that respect and highlight local distinctiveness, thereby fostering sustainable development,” Wu notes.
The method proposed by Wu offers a robust framework for addressing landscape homogenization and loss of local character, issues that are increasingly recognized as critical in the field of urban and rural planning. By integrating spatial and temporal analyses, the research provides a comprehensive understanding of landscape evolution, aiding in the precise identification of critical control zones.
As China continues to urbanize, the need for such innovative approaches will only grow. Wu’s research not only addresses core issues of current landscape management but also offers technical pathways for planning practices aimed at enhancing landscape distinctiveness. This approach is particularly relevant for areas like the Yangtze River Delta, where the preservation of unique cultural and natural landscapes can drive economic growth and improve quality of life.
In the words of Wu, “This research provides methodological evidence for the landscape control of urban and rural areas in the Yangtze River Delta area, characterized primarily by plain water networks.” By embracing these methods, planners and developers can ensure that the rapid pace of urbanization does not come at the cost of local identity and cultural heritage.