Abstract Last century,human geography research has been shifted from emphasizing physical and economical aspects to some new fields in western country,which emphasizes more of cultural and social issues.Under this background,the study of female residents in western countries from feminist perspective develops rapidly,concerning with the difference between male and female as well as within woman,even extends its scope to the developing countries.Feminist geography,not only as a scientific thought,criticizes the traditional geographical standpoints on spaces that are regarded as based on patriarchy,but also implies the essence of social justice and humanism.
With the diversification of Chinese society,China's geography research also calls for more concerns with female residents,an important sub-group in the Chinese society.With the study on the housing and residential districts in Nanjing;many issues ubiquitous in China referring the neglect of female needs are exposed.Excessive construction of the suburban colony leads to the alienation of female residents and many public-serving facilities on which the female greatly depends,causes inconvenience in commuting,shopping and recreation.The design of buildings and neighborhoods overlooks the requirements of the female and makes them uncomfortable and isolated.Outside the houses,serving facilities in communities never relieve the burdens of the female.Home,the retiring room of the male,plays the role of female's work place instead.
To maintain social justice and better the female life,some measures should be taken.New forms of houses and neighborhoods may be designed to create more public space,providing mutual support in cooking,child-rearing and social activities.Cheap and minitype houses,household services for females should be offered.Besides,encouraging more females to participate in the management of communities is also important.In short,females' special needs must be in the agenda of planning and construction of residential districts and importance should be attached on the gender equality.
2005, Vol. 20 
