Spatiotemporal Influence of Urban Park Landscape Features on Visitor Behavior

Abstract

The relationship between visitor behavior and the park landscape is complex. Influences of some park features on visitor behavior are unconfirmed and change with time and space, which always confuses landscape architects and park managers. These spatiotemporal dependent effects were less studied. To understand this influence, an empirical study was conducted in 10 representative parks across the West Lake Scenic Area in Hangzhou, China. A system for Observing Play and Recreation in Communities was applied to record visitor behavior on weekdays and weekends, which provides a non-contact approach for an objective and comprehensive dataset. Spearman correlation analysis, Wilcoxon rank-sum test, and a mixed linear model were used for data analysis. The results revealed that spatiotemporal differences between different visitor behaviors. Park location and visiting date affected visitors’ behavior patterns. Landscape features influenced visitor behavior in various ways depending on their context. Landmarks served as gathering points, and the dual effect of vegetation cover varied significantly among visitors. Not all visitors preferred places with high vegetation cover. Social space was more suitable for visitors engaging in planned behaviors, such as exercise and recreation. Based on these findings, the study proposed several strategies for park sustainable design and management.