Monitoring Long-Term Spatiotemporal Dynamics of Urban Expansion Using Multisource Remote Sensing Images and Historical Maps: A Case Study of Hangzhou, China

The spatiotemporal patterns of urban expansion have attracted worldwide attention and been generalized into several prevalent hypotheses, such as the diffusion–coalescence hypothesis three-growth-type hypothesis. Although many studies examined applicability these long-term research evidence are still lacking. This study incorporated a compiled dataset multisource remote sensing images historical maps covering nine snapshots built-up area from 1914 to 2018 monitor process in Hangzhou, China. A fractal analysis area–radius relationship was employed for areal demarcation explore heterogenous across different intra-city spatial extents. results show that (1) Hangzhou has experienced turbulent period primitive urbanization pre-reform era consecutive market-oriented after economic reform; (2) pattern characterized by landscape metrics demonstrates existence multiple alternations between diffusion coalescence phases with peculiarities extents; (3) growth types documents consistent predominance edge-expansion wax wane infilling leapfrogging; (4) institutional reform, industrial development, administrative division adjustment main drivers Hangzhou. Our findings suggest effective planning policies need be raised curb sprawl. Differentiated strategies should proposed accommodate unique conditions subregions. integrated-analysis approach based on establishes feasible pathway research.