Narratives of a lost spatial pattern: a spatial analysis of the distribution of Namo Daoguans in Guangzhou in Republican period

Abstract

This study employed a three-layer urban fabric analysis method based on Space Syntax techniques to analyze the spatial distribution of the Zhengyi 正一 Namo Daoguans (Nahm-mouh Daoist halls 喃呒道馆) in Guangzhou City during the Republic of China era in quantitative and qualitative ways. We investigated their relationships with physical geographic elements, population numbers, the spatial distribution of local temples, cultural practices, and urban topological spaces, which reflected the complexity and flexibility of their distribution patterns, as well as the marginal, commercial nature of the ritual industries they operate. Meanwhile, compared to other influencing urban factors, the Normalized angular choice (NACH) of urban streets plays a decisive role in the spatial distribution of most Namo Daoguans. The locations of Namo Daoguans were mainly chosen on the streets that people passed through most often, and the travel distance within 750 meters (about 10 minutes walking distance) could nearly encompass all Namo Daoguans. Finally, we summarize the logic and pattern of site selection for the Namo Daoguans in Guangzhou at that time. These new findings deepen the current understanding of related knowledge and provide a basis for future planning and design assessment of related spaces.