Soundscape Perceptions and Preferences for Different Groups of Users in Urban Recreational Forest Parks

Although the soundscape in cities is receiving increased attention urban planning, there still a lack of knowledge how personal factors influence perception and preference for soundscapes. Most present studies are linked to one or few specific soundscapes do not have holistic approach exploring pros cons all place. This study surveyed individuals assess perceptions preferences may differ among various attendees typical forest recreational parks Xi’an, China, using an on-site questionnaire. The respondents (N = 2034) revealed that rare natural sounds were perceived more positively than dominating artificial sounds. Five main dimensions social, demographic, behavioral attributes found be preferences: (1) familiarity park attendees’ age made people tolerant towards others find annoying; (2) higher education socio-economic status showed lower tolerance sounds; (3) having companions types use frequent (4) females generally sensitivity males several (5) longer remained park, positive overall was. results indicate numerous affecting people’s experience parks. These findings could help decision-makers designers formulate relevant strategies design tune with varying public needs expectations soundscape. implementation human-oriented can therefore enhance well-being.