In the heart of China’s rapid urbanization, a new study is shedding light on how leisure agriculture is becoming a cornerstone of rural revitalization, particularly in the highly urbanized southern Jiangsu region. Led by Zhaoyi Wang from the College of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture at Yangzhou University, the research published in the journal *Land* (which translates to “Land” in English) offers a nuanced look at the spatial distribution and influencing factors of leisure agriculture resources, providing valuable insights for policymakers, urban planners, and investors alike.
Leisure agriculture, a burgeoning sector that combines agricultural activities with tourism and recreation, has been gaining traction as a means to drive economic growth in rural areas. However, most studies have focused on broader provincial or municipal levels, leaving a gap in understanding the intricate patterns and mechanisms at play in metropolitan regions. Wang’s study addresses this gap by constructing a comprehensive database using multi-source data, including Point of Interest (POI) data, statistical yearbooks, and Geographic Information System (GIS) datasets.
The research employs a suite of spatial statistical methods to analyze the spatial clustering and influencing factors of leisure agriculture resources. Kernel density estimation, nearest neighbor index (NNI), geographic concentration index (GCI), and ordinary least squares (OLS) regression with VIF testing were applied to reveal the underlying patterns and drivers.
The findings are compelling. Leisure agriculture resources exhibit significant clustering with a clear “core–periphery” pattern, concentrated in urban–rural transition zones. “This clustering is not random,” explains Wang. “It’s driven by a complex interplay of economic, social, and environmental factors.”
The study identifies agricultural output value and the number of A-level scenic spots as significant promoters of clustering. “These factors create a synergistic effect, attracting more visitors and investments, which in turn fosters the growth of leisure agriculture,” Wang notes. Interestingly, traditional economic indicators like GDP, population, and transportation density show weaker explanatory power, suggesting that the success of leisure agriculture may hinge more on the quality and uniqueness of the agricultural experiences offered rather than sheer economic size.
The implications of this research are far-reaching. For policymakers, it provides empirical evidence to support the optimization of leisure agriculture resource allocation and inform rural revitalization policies. For urban planners, it offers insights into coordinated urban–rural planning, ensuring that leisure agriculture is integrated into the broader urban development framework. For investors, it highlights the potential of leisure agriculture as a lucrative and sustainable business opportunity, particularly in regions with high agricultural output and scenic attractions.
As China continues to urbanize, the findings of this study could shape future developments in the field of leisure agriculture. By understanding the spatial distribution and influencing factors, stakeholders can make informed decisions that drive economic growth, promote rural revitalization, and create sustainable, vibrant communities.
In the words of Wang, “This research is just the beginning. As we delve deeper into the complexities of leisure agriculture, we unlock new opportunities for growth and development in our rural areas.” With the insights provided by this study, the future of leisure agriculture in southern Jiangsu and beyond looks promising indeed.