This paper argues that although the construction of smart cities in China has followed other countries closely, the popularization of concepts, the construction mechanisms and achievements are still behind the advanced countries. The pilot and demonstration pattern in the Chinese construction of smart cities has several advantages, such as wide coverage of cities, large investment funds, diversity of applications and good coordination among different agents. Utilizing this pattern is conducive to exploring a suitable way to construct China's smart cities, and narrow the gap between China and the advanced countries. The paper summarizes eight barriers in the construction of smart cities in China, and offers some proposals on promoting the levels of construction regarding several aspects, such as forming the construction pattern, expanding the application system, strengthening the investment on R&D, providing the support of the industry, and integrating pilot projects.
