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Journal of Chinese
Architecture and Urbanism Urban orientalism and informal urbanization

of these communities. This intersection amplifies existing diverse experiences of all residents into urban planning.
disparities, specifically for vulnerable groups such as Addressing this gap is crucial for fostering equitable and
migrant laborers. sustainable development in Jinan, ensuring that the city’s
Overall, the findings emphasize the importance of growth benefits all its inhabitants, not just those who align
adopting a comprehensive approach to urban development with the external “Oriental” narrative.
in Jinan. Policymakers, urban planners, and scholars 6.2. Urban orientalism’s impact on informal
must critically examine narratives that stereotype and urbanization policies
exoticize the East while incorporating diverse viewpoints
to effectively address informal urbanization. To foster In Jinan, the influence of urban orientalism on policies
inclusive, egalitarian, and sustainable urban futures for related to informal urbanization is palpable. As a
Jinan and other rapidly urbanizing cities, stakeholders city renowned for its rich cultural heritage and rapid
should transcend orientalized paradigms and prioritize the modernization, Jinan presents a fascinating case study
needs of all residents. of the intersection between tradition and modernity in
urban development. Urban orientalism, shaped by external
6.1. Experiences in informal areas and “Oriental” perceptions that romanticize and exoticize non-Western
perceptions cities, significantly impacts Jinan’s policies and practices
This research study explores the contrast between the lived concerning informal urbanization.
experiences of residents in Jinan’s informal urban areas and Externally, Jinan is often portrayed as an “Oriental”
external perceptions of the city as an “Oriental” cultural cultural hub, celebrated for its historical significance,
hub. Jinan, the capital of Shandong province, China, is picturesque landscapes, and traditional architecture. This
undergoing significant urban transformation, blending idealized image influences urban development policies,
its rich cultural heritage with rapid modernization. This prioritizing the preservation of cultural heritage and
duality presents a unique case where traditional and esthetic appeal over addressing the needs of residents
contemporary elements coexist. in informal settlements. Policies influenced by urban
Informal settlements in Jinan, which accommodate orientalism frequently focus on enhancing the city’s
a substantial portion of the city’s population, often face visual appeal to attract tourism and investment, while
challenges such as inadequate infrastructure, limited neglecting the pressing socioeconomic challenges faced by
access to essential services, and various socioeconomic marginalized urban populations. Consequently, informal
difficulties. These areas are frequently marginalized in settlements in Jinan often receive little attention in urban
urban planning processes, leading to poor living conditions planning processes. Despite housing a substantial portion
and limited opportunities for their residents. The daily of the city’s population, these areas are frequently excluded
experiences of these residents reflect a constant struggle to from comprehensive development plans, resulting in
navigate and survive within these constraints, highlighting inadequate infrastructure, limited access to essential
the stark reality of urban inequality. Contrastingly, Jinan services, and persistent socioeconomic disparities.
is often romanticized and idealized as an “Oriental” city The disparity between the external portrayal of Jinan
by external observers, including media, policymakers, and as an “Oriental” city and the lived realities of informal
tourists. This perception emphasizes the city’s historical settlement residents highlights the profound impact of
significance, cultural heritage, and esthetic appeal, creating urban orientalism on urbanization policies.
an exoticized image that obscures the harsh realities faced Addressing this impact requires a shift toward more
by residents of informal urban areas. The romanticization inclusive and equitable urban development strategies.
of Jinan as an “Oriental” city influences urban policies and By integrating the needs and experiences of informal
development practices, often prioritizing the preservation settlement residents into urban planning processes,
of its cultural image over addressing the urgent needs of its policymakers can create policies that prioritize the well-
marginalized populations. being of all residents, fostering sustainable growth and
This dissonance between external perceptions and enhancing the overall quality of life in Jinan.
the lived realities of residents significantly impacts
urban governance and policy-making. By focusing 6.3. Limitations
on maintaining an “Oriental” image, urban strategies The present study provides valuable insights into the
risk neglecting the socioeconomic and infrastructural intricate dynamics of urban growth in the city. However,
improvements necessary for inclusive urban development. it has certain limitations. The study’s scope is confined to
This analysis underscores the importance of integrating the Jinan, Shandong province, China, which may restrict the

Volume 7 Issue 3 (2025) 13 https://doi.org/10.36922/jcau.3517