ABSTRACT
Chinese cities have undergone tremendous transformation spurred on by the state-oriented economic reform since the late 1970s. The past decades have witnessed the rapid reconfiguration of socio-economic structures and the formation of new urban spatiality’s. The chapter begins with theoretical reflection of urban rhythms, (im) mobilities and meanings. This is followed by analysis of changing urban rhythms of Sanya with a backdrop of rapid socio-economic change in the past few decades. Chinese cities have undergone tremendous transformation spurred on by the state-oriented economic reform since the late 1970s. Differences of rhythms and (im) mobilities are also further demonstrated by contested meanings given to rhythms of individuals' life and the city. In accordance with the 'new paradigm', mobility is far more than physical displacement but relates to socially constructed practices, which are constantly shaped by various ideas, values and discourses. The diverse urban rhythms of Sanya through mobilities often contrast starkly with traditional ways of living in local communities.
