Spatial Distribution Characteristics and Influencing Factors of Industrial Heritage in Kunming, China

As a pivotal industrial hub in southwestern China, Kunming City has accumulated abundant industrial heritage resources. Investigating the spatial distribution characteristics and influencing factors of industrial heritage across different districts in Kunming is critical for understanding its historical evolution and current status, and for providing scientific guidance for conservation and sustainable development. From a sustainability perspective, this study selected 80 industrial heritage sites in Kunming as research subjects. Utilizing ArcGIS spatial analysis techniques combined with kernel density estimation, standard deviational ellipse, and Geographical Detector analysis, we systematically visualized the spatial distribution patterns and driving factors. Key findings include that (1) industrial heritage exhibits significant spatial heterogeneity, concentrating primarily in the city center and surrounding areas, forming high-density clusters in Wuhua District, Panlong District, and Haikou Subdistrict, while showing marked disparities among regions; (2) distinct spatial distribution patterns emerge across heritage types—manufacturing heritage clusters in central urban zones, whereas mining heritage disperses in peripheral mountainous areas; and (3) historical preservation policies are identified as the dominant factor shaping the current distribution, whereas terrain and natural environmental impacts remain secondary. These findings offer actionable insights for optimizing the conservation and adaptive reuse of Kunming’s industrial heritage.