An Exploration of Route Synergy between Attractions in Xi’an’s Main Urban Area Based on the Node-Place Model

Abstract

This paper investigates the synergy between transportation efficiency and tourism value along public transport routes connecting major tourist attractions in the main urban area of Xi’an, China. Focusing on 120 public transport routes linking 15 national 4A and 5A scenic sites, the study extends Bertolini’s node-place model by interpreting traffic value as the node dimension and tourism value as the place dimension. Using ArcGIS, a minimum resistance model, kernel density analysis, and weighted overlay techniques, the research evaluates traffic accessibility through public transport station density and road network density, while tourism value is assessed through scenic spot density and characteristic shop density. The analysis classifies scenic routes into four development states—balanced, subordinate, pressured, and imbalanced—and identifies tailored planning strategies for each. Balanced routes should maintain coordinated growth of transport and tourism functions; subordinate routes require improved transport services and tourism facilities; pressured routes need traffic management to prevent congestion and overtourism; and imbalanced routes require either transport optimisation or tourism development depending on the dominant value. The findings provide a framework for integrating transport and tourism planning, improving public transport accessibility, and supporting sustainable tourism development in Xi’an and other historic cities.