China's Railway Transformation: History, Culture Changes and Urban Development

This book explores China's railway transformation through history, culture changes, and urban development, focusing on the impact of high-speed rail (HSR) infrastructure on Chinese cities. It assesses eleven important HSR stations built between 2008 and 2018, comparing them to stations in Europe. The book aims to analyze how HSR infrastructures have affected the development of Chinese urban contexts and investigate the peculiarities of the new HSR stations in China compared to those in Europe.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 188 pages
Publication date: 30 December 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This captivating book delves into the intricate history of China's railway transformation, encompassing not only the technical advancements but also the profound cultural shifts and urban development that have shaped the country. It begins by providing a comprehensive background of China, highlighting its rich heritage and the remarkable growth of its railway system across five pivotal phases.

Next, the book delves into the fascinating cultural changes that have occurred within the railway carriage, exploring how these changes are interconnected with social equality and national provisions. It sheds light on the evolving social dynamics and the impact of the railway on the lives of individuals and communities.

At its heart, this book aims to analyze the Chinese urban transformation through the development of the high-speed rail (HSR) infrastructure. To achieve this, eleven significant new HSR stations in mainland China, along with the newly constructed Hong Kong West Kowloon Station, have been carefully selected as case studies. These stations, built between 2008 and 2018, provide a rich context for examining how HSR infrastructures have influenced the development of the Chinese urban landscape.

The selected case studies encompass a diverse range of locations, including Beijing South, Wuhan, Shanghai Hongqiao, Guangzhou South, Xian North, Nanjing South, Chengdu East, Tianjin West, Zhengzhou East, Hangzhou East, and Hong Kong West Kowloon. Each station is analyzed and assessed to understand its location, intentions, and success in promoting urban development.

Furthermore, the book delves into the peculiarities of the new HSR stations in China when compared to stations in Europe. An assessment framework is established to evaluate these case studies comparatively, considering factors such as the urban structure of the area, the architectural quality, the functional diversity, and the quality of the public space generated in the surrounding area.

Through its comprehensive exploration, this book offers valuable insights into the complex interplay between history, culture, and urban development in China. It sheds light on the transformative power of the railway and its impact on shaping the country's cities and communities. Whether you are interested in transportation, urban planning, or the socio-economic dynamics of China, this book is a must-read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the country's remarkable journey.

Weight: 326g
Dimension: 233 x 156 x 14 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032424583