Study on the walkability of old city streets in Beijing from the perspective of application of Central Axis for World Heritage List

A significant decline in walkability quality is observed along Beijing's Central Axis, with key factors such as street interface, facilities, and style deteriorating from the axis outward. Research identifies that buildings on the north side of Chang’an Avenue better preserve traditional hutong architectural styles. Pearson’s correlation analysis reveals that the proportion of fences and street width strongly influence the sense of security, while street aspect ratio is critical for comfort, and preservation of traditional features shapes aesthetic perception. The study proposes strategies to enhance walkability, including distinguishing pedestrian and vehicular functions, controlling green visual ratios, and protecting traditional street patterns, aiming to support Beijing's Central Axis application for UNESCO World Heritage List in 2023.

Zhang, X., Yu, C., & Gong, Y. (2023). Study on the walkability of old city streets in Beijing from the perspective of application of Central Axis for World Heritage List. Journal of Chinese Architecture and Urbanism, 5(3), 1033. https://doi.org/10.36922/jcau.1033