Intelligent Revival of the City-Being

Urban development disparities are intensifying in the era of artificial intelligence (AI). A limited number of cities with strong potential in intelligence are poised to lead the next phase of development, while many others face declining competitiveness. This paper focuses on the intelligent revival of the city-being, viewing the city as a living entity that embodies history, culture, and social relations. Drawing on empirical projects, it examines pathways of urban regeneration through heritage conservation, ecological restoration, spatial vitality maintenance, environmental governance, and AI empowerment. It argues that urban regeneration is not merely about physical structures; rather, its true value lies in reviving the history, humanity, and wisdom embedded within the physical fabric of the city. It further explores how AI—via intelligent sensing, data-driven approaches, and Human-AI (HAI) collaboration—can transform cities from static built environments into adaptive and learning systems. The paper concludes by outlining five key principles of HAI regeneration, emphasizing human-centered approaches, systemic governance, multi-dimensional balance, and a global perspective, and advocates placing people at the center of all urban regeneration efforts.