Establishing the conditions for effective transit-oriented development in China: the case of Dalian

► A theoretical framework is built up for effective Transit-Oriented Developments (TODs). ► A number of preconditions for effective TODs are established. ► A distinction is made between critical conditions and important conditions. ► An empirical study is carried out in Dalian, one of the largest cities in China that embraces TOD. ► The article concludes with Dalian's lessons with TOD and implications for other Chinese cities.