Investigating Spatial Distribution Characteristics and Influencing Factors of Traditional Villages in Southwest China from the Perspective of Human–Land Relationship

Traditional villages in Southwest China serve as vital carriers of ethnic culture, vernacular architecture, and ecological wisdom, embodying centuries of dynamic human–land interaction. This study explores the spatial distribution characteristics and influencing factors of traditional villages in Yunnan, Guizhou, Sichuan, and Chongqing by applying a human–land relationship theoretical framework. This study uses spatial analysis methods, including average nearest neighbor, spatial autocorrelation, and kernel density estimation, combined with geographic detectors. The research identifies spatial clustering patterns and reveals key natural, infrastructural, and socio-economic drivers. The results demonstrate that traditional villages exhibit a significantly clustered distribution, particularly in areas such as Qiandongnan, Lijiang, and Dali, where cultural heritage and tourism resources are abundant. Among the nine analyzed factors, river density, road density, and temperature show the strongest explanatory power, while the interaction between natural and socio-economic elements, such as altitude and urbanization, further enhances spatial influence. These findings reflect the complex interplay between geographical constraints, human adaptation, and modern tourism dynamics. By situating the spatial evolution of traditional villages within the broader process of rural tourism development, this study highlights the need for adaptive spatial planning and culturally sensitive infrastructure strategies. It provides theoretical and empirical support for policymakers and stakeholders aiming to promote sustainable development, spatial equity, and cultural continuity in the context of village revitalization.