Analysis on Spatial Characteristics and the Adaptation Mechanism of Miao Traditional Settlement in Qiandongnan, China

In the farming era, the ancestors of Miao moved to a mountainous area in Qiandongnan to avoid wars. When they started their settlement construction, people gave priority to how to deal appropriately with the great survival pressure they were facing. This paper uses the methods GIS spatial analysis, morphological index, and spatial syntax to explain the spatial characteristics of Miao traditional settlements from the perspective of both regional scale and individual settlement and explores the adaptation mechanism. The results show that (1) spatial distribution of settlements shows a tendency of agglomeration and significant spatial heterogeneity; the maximum kernel density is in the Leikaitai area, which is featured by an inclined “T” shape; (2) settlements are concentrated in areas mainly around Qingshui River and Duliu River, with an elevation of 500–1000 m, terrain relief of 10–20 m, and the slope of 5–15°; (3) the external boundary of settlement is mainly finger-shaped and buildings showed a large concentration of small distribution; and (4) settlements have generally formed an overall landscape pattern of “mountain-water-field-forest-building,” with the space center appearing inside the settlements and the road connecting the outside of the settlement. This paper summarizes the intrinsic relationship among settlements’ spatial characteristics, the natural environment, and the social and economic environment and concludes the internal morphological evolution of the settlement which has shifted from survival adaptability to active search for development. The results of this research can provide a valuable reference for traditional settlement protection, utilization, and sustainable development.