Rural spatial planning strengthens rural resilience and sustains development in China

• "Resilience" is a key theoretical perspective for analyzing rural spatial planning and rural development. • Based on resilience theory, a conceptual framework is constructed to evaluate the effectiveness of rural spatial planning implementation. • In the process of formulating and implementing rural spatial planning, full consideration should be given to regional heterogeneity. • Scientific spatial planning and management can significantly enhance rural resilience, supporting the achievement of sustainable development goals. Rural spatial planning (RSP) is a comprehensive process for adjusting and optimizing spatial layouts and resource allocation in rural areas. As an essential part of the full planning cycle, implementation evaluation provides a critical basis for revising and refining both plan formulation and implementation management. Drawing on resilience theory, this study proposes a conceptual framework for evaluating the effectiveness of RSP implementation, aiming to clarify the processes and underlying mechanisms through which planning enhances rural resilience (RS) capacity. Empirical analysis of representative case studies reveals that post-implementation villages exhibit improved overall development, including stabilized landscape order, enhanced regional functions, and greater adaptability among diverse stakeholders. These improvements have facilitated coordinated development across socioeconomic, ecological, and cultural dimensions. The implementation process requires context-specific approaches that reflect the diverse morphological characteristics of different regions. This research offers valuable insights into global RS-building efforts and provides practical guidance for rural governance, particularly in developing countries.