The exploration and global contributions of China's transit-oriented development (TOD) model

A scholarly analysis

Bibliographic Data

ID21257097
AuthorsPenglin Li (0000-0003-4440-8457, China Railway Economic and Planning Research Institute, corresponding author), Shuyi Zhang (0000-0002-5137-8391), Xicheng Zhang (0000-0003-3721-1357, Xi'an University of Architecture and Technology), Chenhai Ouyang (Ministry of Transport), Xiaowei Li (0000-0001-6947-4448, Xi'an University of Architecture and Technology, corresponding author), Gengze Li (0000-0001-6089-8025, Xi'an University of Architecture and Technology, corresponding author), Jing Shi (0000-0001-7156-8128, Tsinghua University)
Year2026
Volume12
Pages101983
Publication date2026-12-01
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueSustainable Futures (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 2666-1888
PublisherElsevier BV (PUBLISHER)
DOI10.1016/j.sftr.2026.101983
OpenAlexW7165542852
LanguageEN
References cited20

This study focuses on China's full-cycle "planning-construction-operation" TOD model, employing empirical analysis of Hangzhou's ten-stage development framework and Beijing's phased optimisation practices to systematically elucidate its theoretical innovations and practical value in addressing challenges of rapid urbanisation. Through case studies of Chinese TOD implementations, it distils a high-density governance paradigm applicable to East Asian cities and reveals the adaptability conditions for its global dissemination. The research specifically addresses two core questions: What are the innovative mechanisms underlying China's TOD model in integrating whole-lifecycle management, embedding intelligent technologies, and incorporating equity considerations? How do policy support systems and regulatory frameworks activate TOD's sustainable efficacy through institutional design? The findings demonstrate that Chinese TOD practices have established a four-dimensional innovation system encompassing "policy incentives, spatial optimisation, technological empowerment, and equity safeguards," transcending traditional TOD research's emphasis on spatial form. This has produced replicable "Chinese solutions" in practice. The model's whole-lifecycle management wisdom and institutional innovation experiences offer theoretically profound and practically instructive sustainable solutions for cities across East Asia and beyond facing rapid urbanisation pressures. Simultaneously, the study emphasises that sustained institutional innovation is essential to address emerging urban challenges and maintain the model's vitality

Adaptability · Corporate governance · East Asia · Equity (law) · Sustainability · Sustainable development · Urbanization · Smart Cities and Technologies · Urban Planning and Governance · Urban Transport and Accessibility