Resumen
Based on the division of zones in metropolitan areas, the differences in the scale, functions, passage and hubs between Tokyo, New York and Paris are compared and it is indicated that three cities have different kinds of railway network structure. Considering spatial structure of cities and the historical process, this paper analyzes the influence of resident-employment distribution and the development background on the planning of regional rails. We also explain how these three kinds of structure were formed and summarize technical essentials of the planning of regional rails in international metropolitan areas, which would provide a reference for the planning and the construction of regional rails in China.