The Cities of Song China (960–1279)

This two-volume set explores the urban development of Song dynasty cities, focusing on their design, governance and management, and situating them within the broader context of Chinese urban history.

Drawing on a wide range of primary sources, including official documents, private writings and geographical records, the volumes paint a detailed picture of the urban landscape of the Song dynasty. The first volume examines key innovations in urban management and organization that spurred economic and cultural growth. The second volume takes an in-depth look at how the challenges or ''urban diseases'' arising from rapid urbanization were dealt with, providing valuable historical lessons. By providing fresh insights into Chinese urban history, this work offers an alternative lens and a nuanced view for understanding the divergent paths of Chinese and Western cultural development.

This set will be essential reading for scholars and students of Chinese history and urban studies, as well as urban planners, historians and policymakers interested in understanding historical approaches to urban development and management.