How do you like your rivers? Portraying public perception and preference for urban rivers in China via a combined visual and textual analysis

Abstract Urban rivers play a pivotal role in fostering human–nature interaction in cities. This study investigates the evolving relationship between humans and rivers by examining public perceptions of rivers' multifaceted roles—an aspect not yet explored through social science methods—within the context of China's river restoration trends. We conducted a public survey in three riverine cities in China—Chongqing, Wuhan and Hangzhou, and generated 114 photographs of respondents' ‘favourite river sites’, as well as detailed written explanations of why they liked those places. By combining visual content analysis and textual thematic analysis to their answers, we identified five specific perceived values of urban rivers: ecological, recreational, scenic, economic and sentimental. The findings reveal a widespread preference for the ecological and recreational benefits of urban rivers, particularly through direct, sensory interactions with water. Urban rivers are also found to evoke enduring emotional bonds with people—for example, being referred to as the ‘mother river’—which is deeply rooted in Chinese culture. Water quality emerges as the most valued attribute, reflecting an urgent need to address the widespread pollution of rivers in Chinese cities. Biodiversity, however, remains underrepresented in public perception. People overwhelmingly prioritise water quality, often lacking awareness of the biological quality of rivers. The study also highlights potential conflicts between the high demand for recreational use of rivers and the need to conserve their ecosystems, suggesting future strategic mitigation plans to address this challenge. Rivers' cooling effects and mental health benefits can further contribute to the city's climate adaptation efforts. Given the substantial investments in river restoration in China, the study emphasises integrating social needs and involving public participation in urban river management. Ultimately, the results contribute to China's sustainable transformation by aligning ecological restoration with cultural and societal goals, and promoting coexistence between humans and nature within urban river corridors.