A Comprehensive Evaluation of Walkability in Historical Cities: The Case of Xi’an and Kyoto

Kun Yuan (), Hirokazu Abe, Noriko Otsuka, Kensuke Yasufuku and Akira Takahashi
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Kun Yuan: Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
Hirokazu Abe: Cybermedia Center, Osaka University, Osaka 567-0047, Japan
Noriko Otsuka: ILS Research gGmbH, D-44135 Dortmund, Germany
Kensuke Yasufuku: Cybermedia Center, Osaka University, Osaka 567-0047, Japan
Akira Takahashi: Cybermedia Center, Osaka University, Osaka 567-0047, Japan

Sustainability, 2023, vol. 15, issue 6, 1-23

Abstract: Walkability is an important indicator of sustainable urban development, especially in fragmented historical blocks affected by modern development efforts. Xi’an, China, and Kyoto, Japan, which are among the oldest cities in Asia, have similar historical backgrounds and a grid-based street network that differs from European historical cities. They also have their own distinctive development characteristics. This study uses a novel quantitative approach to identify areas for improvement in the historical built environment of the two cities that, as part of an overall effort to create a pedestrian-friendly urban center, will promote and facilitate walking activities. The proposed method combines macro- and micro-aspects to identify factors that can either improve or hinder the walking environment. It was found that to ensure a walkable environment in its historical blocks, Xi’an will need to consider the potential negative impact on walkability as it pursues increased modernization. The built environment and the infrastructure of its streets need to be improved, and its historical streetscape and vegetation characteristics need to be maintained. As for Kyoto, to ensure a favorable walking environment, the focus should be on improving the vitality of its streets.

Keywords: walkability; pedestrians; historical capital cities; macro- and micro-evaluation; street view; deep learning (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2023
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