Strategic analysis on improving the proximity and accessibility in China: an exploratory development based on the study of the 15-minute city

Against the backdrop of rapid urbanization in China's megacities, the growing need for accessible and convenient transportation has become more pronounced. The rise of the 15-minute city concept in chrono-urbanism has become increasingly evident in recent years. In this context, the paper presents a comprehensive strategic analysis and explores future possibilities for enhancing proximity and accessibility in urban transportation. The focus is on the exploratory development of the 15-minute city concept. By adopting a qualitative analytical approach, the paper delves into an analysis based on Melbourne’s '20-minute city' to assess the applicability and diverse development of the 15-minute city model in Chinese urban centers. By acquiring current data and examples, the findings reveal the strengths and challenges of the 15-minute city concept, underscoring its adaptability and uniqueness across different geographical, national, and targeted contexts. The paper indicates that among megacities in China, the 15-minute city highlights the potential for integrating advanced technology to enhance urban mobility and proximity. It also calls for a shift towards high-quality development in urban planning to strengthen the resilience of city transport. The study’s exploratory nature also opens up avenues for future development within the 15-minute city framework, providing a robust base for improving urban transportation in China. The significance of this research lies in its contribution to shaping high-quality and livable urban environments, thereby supporting the ongoing transformation of China’s large urban centers into more accessible and human-centered spaces.