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Constructing a “Clustered–Boundary–Cellular” Model: Spatial Differentiation and Sustainable Governance of Traditional Villages in Multi-Ethnic China

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  • Yaolong Zhang

    (School of Geography and Urban-Rural Planning, Longdong University, Qingyang 745000, China)

  • Junhuan Li

    (School of Architecture, Xi’an University of Architecture and Technology, Xi’an 710055, China)

Abstract

Understanding the spatial patterns of ethnic inter-embeddedness is essential for promoting sustainable development in multi-ethnic regions. This study develops a novel “Clustered-Boundary-Cellular” typological model to interpret the spatial differentiation of traditional villages in China’s Hehuang region. Using an integrated approach that combines GIS spatial analysis (Kernel Density Estimation, Ripley’s K-function, and Standard Deviational Ellipse), spatial statistics (Global Moran’s I), and other statistical tests (Kruskal–Wallis tests and multinomial logistic regression), we categorized and analyzed 153 nationally designated traditional villages. The results indicate the following: (1) The villages exhibit significant spatial differentiation, falling into three distinct scenarios. Clustered–Isolation villages (107/153, 69.9%) are predominantly located in topographically constrained areas and display strong spatial clustering; Boundary–Permeation villages (24/153, 15.7%) are distributed along transport corridors and show the highest road density (0.55 km/km 2 ); Cellular–Symbiosis villages (22/153, 14.4%) occur in multi-ethnic cores areas and exhibit a relatively random spatial distribution. (2) This differentiation results from the synergistic effects of multidimensional drivers: natural environmental constraints (notably elevation and proximity to rivers), religious–cultural adaptation (Global Moran’s I analysis confirms the strong clustering of Tibetan and Salar groups, reflecting distinct religious spatial logics), and economic transition dynamics (transportation infrastructure serves as a key catalyst). This study demonstrates the value of the proposed model as an analytical tool for diagnosing ethnic spatial relations. The findings offer important insights and spatial guidance for formulating context-sensitive strategies for sustainable governance, cultural heritage preservation, and ethnic integration.

Suggested Citation

  • Yaolong Zhang & Junhuan Li, 2025. "Constructing a “Clustered–Boundary–Cellular” Model: Spatial Differentiation and Sustainable Governance of Traditional Villages in Multi-Ethnic China," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(20), pages 1-28, October.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:17:y:2025:i:20:p:9268-:d:1774667
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    1. Zhe Lei & Weiran Han & Junhuan Li, 2025. "Spatial–Environmental Coupling and Sustainable Planning of Traditional Tibetan Villages: A Case Study of Four Villages in Suopo Township," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(19), pages 1-24, September.
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