The Spatial Features and Driving Mechanism of Homestead Agglomeration in the Mountainous and Hilly Areas of Southwestern China: An Empirical Study of 22 Villages in Chongqing

Scientific analysis of the spatial features and driving factors of homestead agglomeration in different landform types of mountainous and hilly areas in Southwest China is of great significance for the optimization of national spatial patterns and high-quality rural development. This paper selects 22 villages in 3 towns with different landform types in Chongqing and examines the spatial features and driving factors of homestead agglomeration in different landform types from the perspectives of terrain gradient, kernel density estimation, farmer household agglomeration status, and landscape index. We analyzed the agglomeration spatial features of different landform types and explored their driving factors and mechanisms. It was found that (1) the distribution of homesteads in mountainous and hilly areas has obvious terrain gradient characteristics, and the layout of platform area homesteads is not constrained by terrain conditions. (2) Chongqing homesteads show a spatially dispersed pattern, but the degree of homestead spatial agglomeration varies significantly among different landform types, with those in mountainous and hilly areas being mainly dispersed and those in platform areas being mainly clustered. (3) Homestead spatial agglomeration is characterized by a combination of factors inside and outside the rural system and farmers' willingness. There are differences in the driving factors of homestead agglomeration in different landform types. Homestead agglomeration in mountainous and hilly areas is mainly driven externally, while homestead agglomeration in platform areas is mainly driven internally. In both situations, farmers' willingness must be fully considered. The results of this study can provide a scientific basis for the spatial planning and optimal allocation of land resources in the southwestern hilly area.