Assessment of Cultural Ecosystem Service Values in Mountainous Urban Parks Based on Sex Differences

Cong Gong (), Tong He, Lijun Huang, Sijin Li, Qianyu Zhou and Yuchen Liu
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Cong Gong: School of Architecture and Urban Planning, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China
Tong He: School of Architecture and Urban Planning, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China
Lijun Huang: School of Architecture and Urban Planning, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China
Sijin Li: School of Architecture and Urban Planning, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China
Qianyu Zhou: School of Architecture and Urban Planning, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China
Yuchen Liu: School of Architecture and Urban Planning, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China

Land, 2025, vol. 14, issue 3, 1-24

Abstract: Urban parks are vital for providing cultural ecosystem services (CESs) to residents. However, few studies have explored sex-based differences in CES demand, particularly within mountainous urban parks. This study aimed to elucidate sex-based differences in the perceptions and preferences for CESs and landscape elements and explore their relationship in mountainous urban parks. Using value-labeled photographs from an equal number of male and female volunteer visits to Eling Park in Chongqing, China, the SolVES model was employed to investigate the relationship between sex-specific perceptions of CESs and landscape elements. The results showed that males preferred slopes and steps, garden facilities, and recreation facilities, whereas females preferred overlooks that offer multiple CES values, including science and ecological education, and aesthetic and cultural heritage values. Females perceived social relational value at the lotus pond and Kansheng Tower, whereas males perceived inspirational value at Kansheng Tower, the entrance, and the cliffside path. Males linked inspirational value to fort-like ridges and cliffs. Females associated inspirational value with slopes and steps. Based on the findings, the study recommends enhancing CESs specific to mountainous landscapes and incorporating sex-sensitive design elements. Ultimately, these efforts aim to position parks as key components of urban sustainable development, promoting overall resident well-being.

Keywords: mountainous city park; cultural ecosystem services; urban environment perception; visitor-employed photography; sex differences (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q15 Q2 Q24 Q28 Q5 R14 R52 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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