Spatial typology and differentiated conservation pathways of trade-oriented ancient towns along the Beijing–Hangzhou Grand Canal

Abstract

Abstract This study examines 52 trade-oriented ancient towns along the Beijing–Hangzhou Grand Canal, combining GIS analysis, morphological indicators, and space syntax in a composite model classified via PCA and K-means clustering. Towns cluster significantly along the canal (NNI = 0.5518, p < 0.01) in a multi-nodal pattern, with density rising north to south; over two-thirds lie within 5 km of the canal axis. Four spatial types emerge — Traditional Market Towns, Integrated Node Towns, Spontaneous Sprawl Towns, and Composite Hub Towns — differing significantly in compactness, network integration, and structural complexity (ANOVA, p < 0.001). Cross-validation against independent historical evidence shows close correspondence between these types and documented Ming–Qing commercial functions and canal relationships, reflecting legacies of canal-based commerce. A differentiated governance framework of type identification, evidence-based diagnosis, and targeted intervention is proposed for linear heritage corridors.