Abstract

Women's use of public space is often constrained by gender roles and the concerns of potential threats,  and the uncertainty created by high-mobility environments may exacerbate the spatial gender exclusion. However, this has not been considered in previous studies. Therefore, we choose Panjiayuan Jiuhuo Market with high spatial mobility and heterogeneity to explore gender differences in space use. Using on-site observation and behavior mapping, and based on GIS, this study analyzed thirty-two activities across four sites, four age groups, as well as weekday and weekend periods under the theme of gender. The study found that high mobility environments are predominantly male dominated spaces; the higher the mobility and heterogeneity, the lower the number of women aged 36-54 and over 54 presents, but the disincentive for women aged 18-36 years is not significant. This study not only demonstrates significant gender differences in the use of urban spaces, but also reveals the mechanisms by how spatial mobility is related to female spaces. The findings of this study can provide a scientific basis for the optimization and design practice of high mobility spaces to create a more equal urban environment.