A Comparative Study of Spatial and Temporal Preferences for Waterfronts in Wuhan based on Gender Differences in Check-In Behavior

The geographical location and check-in frequency of social platform users indicate their personal preferences and intentions for space. On the basis of social media data and gender differences, this study analyzes Weibo users’ preferences and the reasons behind these preferences for the waterfronts of the 21 major lakes within Wuhan’s Third Ring Road, in accordance with users’ check-in behaviors. According to the distribution characteristics of the waterfronts’ points of interest, this study explores the preferences of male and female users for waterfronts and reveals, through the check-in behaviors of Weibo users, the gender differences in the preference and willingness of these users to choose urban waterfronts. Results show that men and women check in significantly more frequently on weekends than on weekdays. Women are more likely than men to check in at waterfronts. Significant differences in time and space exist between male and female users’ preferences for different lakes.