The Chinese City

China's complex cities are experiencing dramatic change. They have displayed unprecedented dynamism under the rapid rise of China's economic power, both conforming to and defying conventional urban theories and experiences of cities elsewhere around the world. Dating back to 2000 BC, China's cities have lived through feudal dynasties, semi-colonialism, and socialist commands. Studying the complex character of the evolving urban china offers a lense into both the complex character of the changing city and the Chinese economy, society, and environment. This book is anchored in the spatial sciences to offer a comprehensive survey of the evolving urban landscape in China. It is divided into four parts with 13 chapters which can be read as stand alone material. Part I sets the context for the text, describing the geographical setting, China's historical urban system, and traditional urban forms. Part II covers the urban system since 1949, the rural-urban divide, and interactions with the global economy. Part III outlines the specific sectors of urban development, including economic restructuring, social-spatial transformation, urban infrastructure, and urban land and housing. Finally, Part IV showcases urbanism through the lens of the urban environment, lifestyle and social change, and urban governance. The Chinese Cityoffers a critical understanding of China's urbanization, exploring how the complexity of the Chinese city both conforms to and defies conventional urban theories and experience of cities elsewhere around the world. This comprehensive book contains a wealth of up to date statistical information, case studies, and suggested further reading to demonstrate the diversity of urban life in China.