Citywalk in Chinese Metropolises: A Multidimensional Framework for Evaluating Urban Walking Environments

Citywalk, a recently emerging form of leisure-oriented mobility, reflects increasing public interest in healthier lifestyles and more immersive urban experiences in Chinese metropolises. This study develops an integrative assessment framework combining Importance–Performance Analysis (IPA) and the Kano model to examine both functional and affective dimensions of pedestrian satisfaction. Based on a multidimensional assessment model that integrates 25 factors of pedestrian perception, large-scale surveys were conducted in Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou, focusing on perceptions of spatial form, sensory atmosphere, accessibility, safety, and supporting facilities. A Satisfaction Scale (SS) and an Importance Scale (IS) were used to quantify responses, and the Kaiser–Meyer–Olkin (KMO) statistic indicated adequate sampling reliability. Results show that in Beijing and Shanghai, Biodiversity Visibility and Ecological Connection (LE5 = 3.706) and Street Furniture and Urban Amenity Integration (IN2 = 3.255) respectively rank first in terms of satisfaction, while Guangzhou showed highest satisfaction ratings with Pedestrian Infrastructure and Circulation Systems (IN3 = 3.206). It concludes that accessibility, safety, and route signage represent basic expectations whose absence substantially lowers satisfaction, and integration of cultural narratives were identified as effective design features associated with improved comfort and engagement. The framework and findings provide an empirical basis for analyzing pedestrian experience and identifying priorities for improving citywalk environments under different urban conditions.