Learning about Urban Development in China: A Collage of Narratives

Abstract

This paper presents a collage of personal narratives derived from travel diaries documented over the past twenty-five years of professional engagement in China. Stemming from diverse activities—ranging from academic teaching and keynote presentations to cooperation in urban development projects and study tours - these narratives offer a perspective on the country's urbanization processes. While basing on extensive literature on Chinese history and governance, the study acknowledges the inherent complexity of fully grasping the local context from an external viewpoint. Consequently, rather than offering a systematic theoretical analysis, the author provides a qualitative reflection on the evolving urban planning culture in China, illustrating specific case studies of development and transformation observed through personal experience.

Received: 2^nd July 2025; Revised: 10^th September 2025; Accepted: 20^th October 2025