With the rising environmental problems, such as global warming, air pollution, urban heat island (UHI) and haze events, the incorporation of urban climate factor into planning is gaining importance. Recently, both oversea and Chinese cities have conducted studies on air path under weak or clam wind conditions with the aims of encouraging air exchange, mitigating UHI and reducing air pollution. These applications are worth learning by Asian cities which are experiencing fast urbanization. Firstly, this paper introduces the background of urban air path study and its development and available air circulation systems. Secondly, it summarizes the key components of urban air path and the relevant design strategies. Thirdly, a few successful application examples from Stuttgart, Tokyo, Hong Kong and Wuhan are selected to summerize their experience and lessons, which can become useful reference for China cities.