Urban planning genes of Fu prefecture in Ming Dynasty China based on HGIS

For millennia, the Chinese ancient urban planning system has exhibited a clear hierarchy and strong continuity, particularly in urban morphology. Yet, the preservation and adaptive reuse of this urban heritage face significant challenges amid modern urbanization. Existing research has concentrated largely on capital cities, while systematic and quantitative studies of Fu Prefectures in the Ming dynasty remain scarce. This study proposes an innovative methodology grounded in planning genes, integrating textual analysis, data compilation, HGIS database construction, and mathematical modeling. Drawing on local gazetteers, historical maps, archeological reports, and remote sensing data, a comprehensive database was established. The research quantitatively examines 167 Ming Fu Prefectures, identifying seven core planning genes: terrain, city shape, city wall circumference, gate number, altar–temple location, government office location, and wall height and thickness. The findings reveal the internal logic and embedded wisdom of urban form, offering new perspectives for historic urban heritage conservation.