Exploring the impact of landscape planning on visual and spatial perception is particularly significant for historical district tourism. The existing literature offers limited insight into which historical landscapes most effectively influence tourists’ visual and spatial perceptions. Our study investigates this relationship within the cultural heritage context of Laomendong, a historical district in Nanjing, China. Utilizing the Stimulus–Organism–Response (SOR) theoretical framework, this research explored how the stylistic, symbolic, and spatial dimensions of historical landscapes influence tourists’ visual and spatial perceptions. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was used to test hypotheses concerning the relationships between historical landscapes, visual perception, spatial perception, and individual predispositions. The findings revealed that stylistic factors (material, color, and ornament), symbolic factors (landmark, relic, and sign), and spatial factors (openness, scale, and layout) significantly enhance visual perception and subsequently spatial perception. Visual perception plays a mediating role in the influence of historical landscapes on spatial perception. Individual predispositions, like sensation-seeking, intensify spatial perception, while destination familiarity surprisingly shows a negative effect, suggesting that over-familiarity might diminish the novelty and excitement of a spatial experience. These insights provide practical implications for the sustainable development of landscape planning in historical district tourism.

Urban public spaces significantly influence public perceptions and experiences. This study, conducted in Beijing, China, employs structural equation modeling (SEM) and Friedman testing to analyze key criteria—safety, attractiveness, facilities, activities, and social environment—that impact perceptions of both virtual and physical public spaces. The findings reveal that attractiveness is the most influential criterion, significantly shaping public opinion. Facilities and activities follow, highlighting the necessity for well-equipped amenities and engaging social activities. The social environment also plays a crucial role, emphasizing the need for spaces that foster social interactions. Safety, while important, is less influential compared to the other criteria. These results underscore the importance of aesthetic considerations, well-equipped amenities, and vibrant social environments in urban design. This study provides actionable insights for urban designers and planners, advocating for a balanced approach that prioritizes these criteria to enhance the quality of life in urban areas. By focusing on these aspects, urban planners can create more effective and satisfying public spaces that meet the diverse needs of the community, ensuring that both physical and virtual spaces contribute positively to urban living.