Reinventing the Chinese City

China has undergone a rapid process of urbanization since the late 1970s, but in recent years, the country has prioritized "quality" in its urban development. Richard Hu's book explores the making and imagining of the contemporary Chinese city, focusing on three key concepts: the "green revolution," "smart city movement," and "great innovation leap forward." He analyzes how attempts to achieve greater sustainability, promote data-driven governance, and foster innovation have fared on the ground through case studies of Beijing, Hangzhou, and Hefei. The book also considers the experimental city Xiongan and investigates how the recent experiences of Hong Kong relate to regional and national development projects.

Format: Hardback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 10 October 2023
Publisher: Columbia University Press

Since the late 1970s, China has undergone a remarkable process of urbanization, marked by rapid development, economic dynamism, and environmental degradation. However, over the past decade, China's leaders have claimed that the country's urbanization has entered a new stage that prioritizes "quality." This shift in focus has led to a renewed interest in urban planning and development, with the aim of creating sustainable, livable, and innovative cities.

In this essay, we will explore the making and imagining of the contemporary Chinese city through the lens of three key concepts: the "green revolution," the "smart city movement," and the "great innovation leap forward." These concepts have become increasingly influential in shaping China's urban landscape and have been implemented through various policy initiatives and projects.

The "green revolution" refers to China's efforts to promote sustainable development and reduce environmental pollution. This includes initiatives such as building green infrastructure, promoting renewable energy sources, and implementing waste management systems. The "smart city movement" aims to create cities that are technologically advanced, efficient, and connected. This includes the use of data analytics, smart technologies, and digital platforms to improve urban services, transportation, and governance. The "great innovation leap forward" focuses on fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in the Chinese city. This includes initiatives such as establishing innovation centers, promoting research and development, and encouraging entrepreneurship.

Through case studies of Beijing, Hangzhou, and Hefei, we will analyze how attempts to achieve greater sustainability, promote data-driven governance, and foster innovation have fared on the ground. We will also consider the experimental city of Xiongan, which is being built as China's idealized vision of the urban future, and investigate how the recent experiences of Hong Kong relate to regional and national development projects.

Reinventing the Chinese City provides a comprehensive account of the ideas that have dominated urban policy in China since 2010, emphasizing key continuities underlying claims of novelty. Shedding light on the transformations of the Chinese city, this book offers a new perspective on the factors that will shape the trajectory of urbanization in the coming decades.

In conclusion, China's urbanization has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past few decades, and the country's leaders have recognized the need to prioritize "quality" in urban development. Through the implementation of the "green revolution," "smart city movement," and "great innovation leap forward," China is striving to create sustainable, livable, and innovative cities. While there are challenges and complexities involved in this process, there is also a great deal of potential for positive change. By continuing to invest in urban infrastructure, promote technological innovation, and prioritize the well-being of its citizens, China can create a prosperous and sustainable urban future.

Weight: 518g
Dimension: 147 x 224 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780231211000