Abstract: Based on the coupling coordination degree model, spatial autocorrelation model and panel data spatial Durbin model, the coupling coordination level and spatial-temporal differentiation pattern of tourism industry, population urbanization and regional economy were analyzed in the nine provinces（regions） of the Yellow River Basin from 2005 to 2019. The results showed that from 2005 to 2019, the comprehensive development level of the tourism industry, population urbanization and regional economy systems in the Yellow River Basin had been improving gradually, and the coupling coordination degree showed a fluctuating growth trend; there was a spatial positive correlation between the three system coupling coordination degrees, among which Gansu Province and Henan Province showed a “low-low” and “high-high” agglomeration mode, respectively. The results of spatial Durbin model showed that the subsystem of regional economy and urbanization presented a significant positive spillover effect, and the positive impacts of neighboring provinces were greater than those within the province. Based on this, corresponding suggestions were put forward to promote the formation of a systematic, comprehensive and coordinated overall development pattern in the Yellow River Basin.

Key words: The Yellow River Basin, tourism industry, population urbanization, regional economy, coupling coordination, spatial spillover effect