Chinese art offers a window into the long and fascinating history that is intrinsic to this   country’s legacy. However, a deep study of art in China would take many years due to the many different art forms, historical periods, ethnic influences, and central themes.

Encompassing calligraphy, painting, sculpture, ceramics, literature, and poetry, art in China has endured over millennia, reflecting preeminent Chinese cultural values: a deep regard for nature; a belief in art’s purpose to educate and guide morally; and simplicity. Proficiency in brushwork, a presentation of different perspectives, and a dedication to subjects – such as lotus leaves, dragons, willows, and misty mountains – are all synonymous with Chinese visual art. And while artistic influence is drawn from its geographic neighbours, equally, the influence of Chinese art extended well beyond its borders to Korea, Japan, and Vietnam.

Chief among the various visual art forms were – and remain – calligraphy and painting. These were practised by amateurs, as well as professionals engaged by the Imperial court and very wealthy, with art reflecting class distinctions, in accordance with principles of Confucianism. A reverence for restraint and austerity so much a part of Chinese art for centuries, observers can see how these qualities pervade both the art and the artists who created it.

Read on to learn a little more about the fundamentals of art in China.

Symbols in Chinese art

Chinese art was characterized by very clear guidance around what did and did not constitute art. This guidance – or some would say a rigidity – around conventions was provided to artists and collectors, with the former expected to copy famous artworks in their training. The most important of these was considered to be “spirit resonance”, to be interpreted as vitality, according to Xie He, an art critic from the 6th century.

A deep appreciation for nature, life’s natural rhythms, the harmony found in the balance of yin and yang, are all found in classical Chinese artworks. You will not find art for art’s sake in China. Instead, art is deeply symbolic, spiritual, and in many ways, metaphorical.

There are many more symbols woven into Chinese art, however, as you explore museums, galleries, and ancient buildings, undoubtedly you will find other symbolic representations that will help you understand both the artwork before you, and the history of China itself.

Calligraphy

Calligraphy is considered an art form in and of itself. From the earliest time when it first emerged during the Han dynasty (206 BCE – 220 BCE), calligraphers were held in the highest regard.

Any Chinese person will tell you, calligraphy is far more than writing. Its status as an art form comes from the exceptional skill required to maintain control of the brush and ink. Added complexity comes with a variety of scripts, including: seal (Zhuanshu); official (Lishu); running (Xingshu); cursive (Caoshu); and regular (Kaishu). The ‘poetry’ of calligraphy is also found in the names given to the tools used, namely the Four Treasures of the Study, which denote the brush pen (bi), ink stick (mo), paper (zhi), and inkstone (yan).

Beyond simple writing, calligraphy requires deftness and skill to enable the brush to form different types of strokes on subtle angles. Fluidity, precision, the use of space, and aesthetics are central tenets upon which calligraphy is created. Different scripts require different pen methods. When writing seal scripts, the brush movement should be soft and solemn; when writing cursive scripts, the brush movement should be smooth and powerful. The popularity of calligraphy grew such that it became a feature of paintings too, where it was used to describe the picture in the painting. Another trend saw artwork owners add their own seal in red ink to paintings, something which continues to today.

Calligraphy was written on silk, bamboo or wooden slips, paper, canvas, and plastered walls, while brushes were made from animal hair. Of course, the historical evolution of ink is fascinating in itself. During the Warring States period (770 – 221 B.C.), the ancient Chinese began using writing brushes and ink sticks (the tiny round piece, not the moulded block). During the Han dynasty, things had moved on, and ‘man-made’ ink sticks appeared, and in later dynasties, the technique and artistic skill associated with production of ink and ink sticks became quite developed. Artists or their attendants made the ink by rubbing the ink stick on the inkstone with a small amount of water. This was done as there was no commercial ink production, and while these techniques are not commonplace now, those with an appreciation and reverence for this the true principle of calligraphy continue to follow the ancient principles developed by the early artisans.

Chinese painting

Just as calligraphy is central to Chinese culture, Chinese painting enjoys a rich tradition too. The Five Dynasties and Song dynasty were considered the heyday of Chinese painting. In terms of ancient Chinese painting, landscapes (including flowers, birds, rocks, trees, and mountains) and portraits have long been the predominant themes. The Tang dynasty period saw landscapes really come into their own.

Consistent with Confucian principles, Chinese painting also reflected the restraint and conservatism evident in other Chinese art forms. Wonder why people portrayed in paintings show such little emotion? It was expected that only the slightest emotion would be shown in paintings; a sign of the artist’s morality.

Later paintings found in tombs included more ‘human’ elements with depictions of family scenes quite common. Folk paintings also appeared, such as the famous Along the River During the Qingming Festival , from the Northern Song dynasty period, which vividly depicts the prosperous scene of Bianjing city (now Kaifeng) in a long scroll composition. With such detail it is considered to faithfully show social life at the time of the painting.

Chinese Ceramics

In terms of ceramics, the Song Dynasty was considered the period during which this Chinese art form reached its pinnacle. Sophisticated kilns were established in northern and southern China. Among them, the most precious and famous were the five great kilns at Ru, Guan, Ge, Ding and Jun , from which even large export sales were achieved. High-end porcelain crafted during this period supplied the Imperial court. Ceramics from Longquan kilns and Jingdezhen were also mass-produced for export at this time. During the Yuan dynasty, Jingdezhen ceramics  truly came into their own. The most famous porcelain from this period were the iconic blue and white porcelain and red glaze porcelain.

We’ve barely touched the surface of Chinese art in this article – there is just so much more to it. Time spent with an experienced and knowledgeable guide exploring significant sites and museums in destinations such as Beijing, Xi’an, and Shanghai , provides insights you won’t find in any book or blog. If this sounds like the kind of experience you’d love to enjoy while exploring China, now could be the perfect time to reach out to guides who would love to bring your travel dreams to life.

Traditional Chinese art is just one aspect of Chinese culture. If you’re keen to learn more, explore our China Travel Guide for more great information. Be travel ready and make the most of your time on a China culture tour. Our team of travel consultants can advise on enriching activities and experiences that will make for beautiful travel memories from your China vacation. Reach out – We are here to help!

Traditional Chinese music can seem quite confounding to the outsider.

Between the large array of unusual instruments, ear-piercing sounds, elaborate costumes worn during performances – and without the thousands of years’ context afforded to local Chinese people – classical Chinese music, it can be very difficult to make sense of it all. To the uninitiated who want to gain an appreciation of what’s behind the music, it’s essential to explore beyond the superficial to the rich, deep background of this style of music that continues to influence modern musicians all over the world.

Understanding the history of traditional Chinese music

Traditional Chinese music is symbolic of many aspects of culture in China. Steeped in history and reflecting an evolution over millennia, the origins of music in China have been traced back 8,000 years. Incredibly, a flute made of bone was uncovered in Henan, a central landlocked province in China. Archeologists and historians purport this special discovery indicated people of that time were musically minded. This is not a surprise given that Henan is considered the cradle of Chinese civilization. A more ‘recent’ musical discovery emerged just 6,000 ago when clay instruments were discovered in Xi’an.

From these rudimentary beginnings, history reveals an evolution of high notes, often reached at times when the creative arts were esteemed through philosophical and imperial influences.

Imperial influences in classical Chinese music

A discussion on the history of traditional Chinese music would be incomplete with reference to the role it played in rites and rituals, both in imperial courts and within the various regions and people throughout China.

During the Zhou Dynasty, which ruled China from the 10th to 7th century BC, a form of music called Yayue (雅乐) emerged. Yayue – which translates as ‘elegant music’ – was the ceremonial and court music that was formalized over this time.

As with so much of Chinese culture, Yayue was layered with symbolism and meaning. The sounds of nature were interpreted by music created through instruments. Yin and yang reflected balance within the universe. Connection between the five elements (water, fire, earth, air, and space) was fundamental to Yayue music, as was the concept of harmonizing nature and the circle of fifths theory, used to convey the relationship among the 12 tones.

Philosophy’s role in traditional Chinese music

The influence of philosophy in traditional Chinese music must start with reference to Confucianism. Unlike the Yayue school of thought, Confucianism was founded on a belief in the divinity of rites and music, and a connection between music and emotions, lifestyle and community.

In Chinese music, there are few words more famous than these: “Music is that which moves man from the internal; rites are that which affects man on the external. Music brings about harmony. Rites ensure obedience.”  They are said to come from the Record of Music of the Book of Rites based on the lost work of Confucius, Classic of Music.

Music and rituals were considered inseparable from the nature of heaven and earth. Moving away from them was to veer from the true nature of the universe. In short, music provided the means by which harmony of the self could be realized.

Confucian teachings on the role of music were expressed in several significant books, namely The Book of Rites and The Musical Records. These, among others, are considered essential reading for anyone keen to study traditional Chinese music.

Not everyone throughout Chinese history felt the same way about music that Confucius did. Mozi, a philosopher born after the death of Confucius (and of whom he was originally a follower) was very clear about his views on Chinese music. Under his own beliefs he denounced “music as a wasteful activity”. Although Mozi was an influential thinker, it is believed the asceticism of Mohism was counter to the true nature of humans; unsurprising given his views on music!

Traditional Chinese musical instruments

The unusual instruments played in traditional classical music are yet another element contributing to this unique music form. Taking influences from other Asian instruments and musical styles, including the erhu and pipa (Central Asia) and India’s heptatonic scale (which was eventually left behind), China emerged with its own collection of musical instruments.

Probably most recognizable is the qin, which gained in prominence and popularity during the Tang Dynasty period (618-907 AD), however there are many other string, woodwind, and percussion instruments used in traditional Chinese music.

While a western music student might wonder about the shape or materials used to create them, Chinese musical instruments are intended to convey neutrality, simplicity, moderation, implicitness, and ethereal artistic expression.

Chinese opera

Typically, traditional Chinese music is played in ensembles and orchestras, and as part of the many forms of traditional Chinese opera. Across China there are over three hundred different types of opera. Among these, the most common types of opera are

While Chinese opera music may sound unmelodious, there is a rhyme and reason to it. Stories are based on well-known ancient tales and music is provided as a complement to the story, elaborate costumes, and exaggerated make-up, with its accentuated eyes and dramatic colors.

Music of the minorities

In a country with 56 different ethnic groups, there is a rich diversity in traditional or folk music. Although music from the Han Chinese dominates, there are dozens of other types of ethnic music varieties. Although there was a period during the twentieth century when ethnic music was not given free expression, there has been a resurgence over the past two decades, with high profile performances in different regions throughout China giving prominence to this important cultural heritage.

Yangshuo’s Impression Sanjie Liu is one such example. Set on the Li River, this outdoor night show includes local ethnic fishermen, women, and children who sing Liu Sanjie’s folk songs against the spectacular karst stone backdrop at night. This style of performance has been emulated elsewhere and is just one way that Chinese musical culture is being preserved and shared.

Traditional Chinese music is just one aspect of Chinese culture . If you’re keen to learn more, explore our China Travel Guide for more great information. Be travel ready and make the most of your time on a China culture tour. Our team of travel consultants can advise on enriching activities and experiences that will make for beautiful travel memories from your China vacation. Reach out -We are here to help!

Different styles, different places

We’ve mentioned that a good rule of thumb to apply in the study of ancient Chinese architecture is that each distinct style is associated with a particular region.

For those wanting to know a little more, here’s a quick summary of the architecture style and corresponding region and features.

In this blog, we’re covering the Jing, Jin, and Chuan styles of architecture, but you can read about the other styles here.

So, let’s explore!

Jing style architecture

Jing style architecture is synonymous with symmetrical distribution and good wishes. The dominant feature of Jing style is the quadrangle shaped courtyard, an element that has evolved over 700 years.

Found predominantly in Beijing (hence the name Jing), this style is very common in China’s north; mostly in Beijing and rural Shanxi. 

Any time spent in China will mean you become very well acquainted with the Siheyuan, which is the style of building most frequently associated with Jing style. A Siheyuan is a type of residence, but throughout Chinese history, this style of building has been used for residences, palaces, temples, monasteries, family businesses, and even government offices.

Perhaps the finest example of Jing style architecture and the Siheyuan is the Forbidden City located in the heart of Beijing. In fact, it can be regarded as an enormous Siheyuan where mastery of this architectural style was achieved. Often beautifully adorned, in the most beautiful Siheyuan you will find ornate carvings, colourful decorative painting, intricate carvings, and more.

It’s not surprising then that in the past, a large Siheyuan was a sign of wealth, importance, and prosperity. They would often house a large, extended family. Even today, those that still stand are used as accommodation, having been subdivided and in some cases, retrofitted with amenities.

If you take a Beijing tour or include Beijing in your China tour (a must!), take some time to visit the city’s most expensive real estate, the hutong. In this old part of Beijing, you’ll discover many Siheyuan still providing accommodation to locals. Going beyond the practical function of housing, a Siheyuan is a point of connection for residents who use their courtyards to engage with one another. The natural by product is a meaningful shared history.

Historically, there were over 26,000 Siheyuan in Beijing, however, by 2012 just over 900 were in a well-preserved condition. Although there aren’t as many, the symbolism, tradition and meaning of the Siheyuan endures today.

Jin style architecture

Jin style architecture is a style of architecture found in China’s northern Shanxi province, referring to parts of Shaanxi, Gansu, Ningxia, and Qinghai.

The earliest examples of Jin style architecture include the murals and carvings found in caves. In fact, millions of people who call the Loess Plateau home reside in cave dwellings, just as they have for thousands of years. There is a logic to this practice. Caves are cool in summer and warm in winter.

By contrast, Jin style architecture also refers to the unique style of buildings and decorations that developed in close association with China’s well-known Shanxi merchants. The influence of the Jin merchants on this style of architecture is pervasive and there are many wonderful testaments to it in buildings that still stand today. 

One beautiful example is the Qiao family courtyard. It includes an incredible 300 houses and six courtyards throughout! Others can be found in Pingyao City Wall, the market street of Pingyao ancient city, and the Wang family compound in Lingshi. 

Chuan style architecture

Chuan-style architecture is an architectural style that is popular in Sichuan, Yunnan and Guizhou. More specifically, it is an architectural style peculiar to the local minority people. 

Like the cave dwellings of the Jin style, the geography of Chuan architecture has influenced the location of structures, which are built along mountains, small hills, and rivers. Each minority has crafted its own particular features and these distinctions can be found in the Dai minority’s bamboo tower, the Dong minority drum tower, and the Diaojiaolou stilted tower in western Sichuan.

The bamboo house of the Dai nationality has been used for over 1,400 years. The lower level of the house is about seven or eight feet high to prevent the house from being flooded, as this style of the house is found in areas of high rainfall. Animals are tied to house posts, while the upper level is reserved for living and storage. A characteristic fire is found in the middle of the building, burning day and night for cooking and warmth.

The Dong minority people forged their own architectural style. It is best represented in the Drum Tower, which is found in every Dong village, usually on the flat or high grounds in the village center. An important focal point for all public village activities, the Drum Tower is surrounded by a square where people can gather. The pavilions are shaped like pagodas, with the landscape, flowers, dragons, phoenix, birds and ancient figures painted or sculpted on the eaves.

Dong minority residences are built on stilts and three or four stories high. Wood is the main material used, although roofs are tiled, and in some regions, the corridors and eaves of houses are connected.

The Diaojiaolou also belongs to this category of stilted or ganlan style buildings. Diaojiaolou is usually two or three floors and are supported by a base made of stone. The deceptively simple architecture hides the true ingenuity of these buildings, which rely on groove joints to hold columns and beams together, rather than nails. 

The height of the buildings also plays a crucial role in survival and wellbeing. Ample ventilation protects against humidity. The building design also helps protect against the threats posed by the natural environment. With venomous snakes, floods and earthquakes among these, it’s any wonder this building design has endured for centuries.

A final word

It’s difficult in just a couple of articles to do justice to the diverse traditional architectural styles in China, but future travelers can gain a sense of what appeals to them and plan their China tour accordingly, remembering there is much to learn about the people who created it and the history and culture behind it. 

If you’re curious about a particular region or architectural style, look for a tour that allows you time to learn and explore by getting up close over a period of days. That way, you’ll come away with a deeper sense of connection and understanding – and that is certainly the content of more meaningful travel memories.

** Information for this article was sourced from Wikipedia, whc.unexco.org,  and WeChat Public Account ID: www1shoucangcom

ChinaTours.com is dedicated to helping western travelers from the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, and elsewhere enjoy an authentic experience of China, including those keen to learn and appreciate more of China’s traditional Chinese architecture styles found in Beijing, Shanxi, and Sichuan. Many of our tours provide the opportunity for immersion in a culture and place for a day or a number of days, allowing more time to learn about the people. We can also tailor a tour that covers an area or region that is of particular interest to you. Want to know more? Just ask us! We’re here to share your passion for learning and all things culture-related. Enquire via our contact form and we’ll respond within 24 hours.

If you’re like most people who start reading about Chinese emperors, you’ll feel very quickly that you’ve disappeared down a gilded and extraordinarily rich rabbit hole. 

There are just so many Chinese emperors and dynasties that even local Chinese people are confused by who did what and when. Let’s face it. A dedicated Chinese history expert would find it hard to wrap their head around every last imperial detail, and we both know that no tour of China is long enough for you to absorb it all. So, rather than provide a blow by blow description of all the Chinese emperors since time began, we thought, why not keep it super simple? 

In this article we share fabulous facts and unlikely fiction that bring some of Chinese most fascinating emperors and their achievements (or lack of them) to life. 

Let’s start with fabulous facts

China as we know it today is a relatively new concept. When considered in the context of Chinese history, emperors have reigned supreme in one way or another for a couple of thousand years.

Overall, there were an incredible 83 dynasties and reigns throughout Chinese history, and a remarkable 559 emperors and kings! 

In China, the emperor was the absolute ruler; a symbol of heavenly power on earth. It might all sound wonderful, but life for a Chinese emperor really wasn’t all lavish ceremonies and disposable servants – although there was plenty of that. You’d think with an endless supply of riches and concubines at your disposal, not to mention access to the best in science and medicine, life would be sweet, however, not so. Being an emperor was dangerous business. With the constant threat to life from those ‘nearest and dearest’ to you, emperors’ lives were often brief and met with violent endings, with untimely death all too common. Some emperors even brought about their own demise, with attempts to reach immortality backfiring unceremoniously. 

Here are a few fabulous facts about Chinese emperors.

The best and most of [Chinese emperors]

Chinese emperors are synonymous with the expansion of China in terms of geography, science, music, and culture. Reflecting the personal interests of the emperor at the time, many advances were made in different areas, with remarkable discoveries the fruits of their labor.

Here are just some of the stand out achievements.

4 Chinese emperors western travelers should know

So with the fab facts out of the way, let’s dive into the detail of four Chinese emperors you really should know.

Qin Shihuang (259 BC – 210 BC): China’s first emperor 

Prior to becoming unified for the first time under Qin Shihuang, China was beset by almost continuous feuding between the various tribes and states. It wasn’t called the Warring Period for nothing, right? But somehow, Shi Huang Di (yes, it means first emperor) managed to pull it all together. 

Under Qin Shihuang, China enjoyed unprecedented centralization in its approach to political, economic, military, cultural, and diplomatic powers. It seems there was very little that could stop Emperor Qin who had many grandiose ideas that he happily invested funds and people to bring to life. We’ve already mentioned the Great Wall – it was Qin who kicked it off hoping to keep the Hans at bay – but his expansive vision didn’t stop there. He took it to the afterlife too. It was Qin who was responsible for the world’s largest (and probably only) underground army of some 8,000 terracotta soldiers, horses, weapons, and every conceivable comfort an earthly departed emperor could need. 

Sadly, Emperor Qin came unstuck when with his attempt to achieve immortality. Legend has it that his court physicians concocted an alchemical formulation that poisoned him, however despite this rather unhappy end, he’s enjoyed an immortality of sorts with the Great Wall and Terracotta Army still standing as lasting legacies of his reign.

Genghis Khan (1162 AD – 1227 AD): The Mongol Empire 

Genghis Khan was born in the Mobei grassland in 1162. From a family of warriors, it’s hardly a surprise that he continued in the family tradition. Historical relics indicated Genghis Khan established the Great Mongol Kingdom in 1206, and may indeed have carried a dual title of emperor and Great Khan.

Under Genghis Khan, the Mongol Empire expanded significantly. Under his rule, the Genghis Khan code Yassa – the world’s first written code – was developed, and the Mongolian Aristocratic republic system, based on aristocratic democracy, was established.

Wu Zetian (624 AD – 705 AD) – Holy God Emperor 

Wu Zhao was the recognized female emperor. She entered court at the age of 14 as a cairen server for Emperor Taizong of the Tang Dynasty and wasn’t promoted for 12 years. Highly skilled at navigating the intrigue and troubles of court life, Wu finally became queen in 655, staying in that position until 683. At that time, her title was Queen of Heaven and Two Holy Gods’  with Emperor Gaozong, however Gaozong didn’t particularly enjoy politics and was prone to dizziness, so Wu did what any good Queen of Heaven would. She stepped into the fray and became the Empress Dowager of Tang Zhongzong and Tang Ruizong. Finally in 690, she became the empress regnant of the Wu Zhou. 

While her life and court was filled with intrigue, power games, and murder, Wu did implement many positive measures during her time as a leader, with agricultural development, water conservation, and academic prowess through imperial examinations among her achievements.

The Last Emperor: Aisin Gioro Puyi

The last emperor of the Qing dynasty was also the last Chinese emperor. Puyi came to power at a time in China when great change was afoot. Things only accelerated under his time as emperor, as he was himself drawn by influences from the West. In 1911, revolution broke out in China, and in 1912 Puyi abdicated, bringing an end to Qing dynasty rule. After the September 18 Incident (Mukden Incident) in 1931, Puyi was installed as a puppet emperor in Manchukuo by the Japanese until 1945, when the Japanese surrendered. Puyi was caught by the Soviet Red Army trying to escape and escorted back to China where he was imprisoned and reformed at the Fushun War Criminals Management Center. In 1959 he received an amnesty decree and later became a member of the China National Committee. He finished life as an ordinary Chinese citizen, marrying a regular Chinese woman (his fourth marriage and fifth wife), finally dying of kidney cancer in 1967 at 61 years of age. The first half of Puyi’s life is shared in his autobiography, however there have been numerous adaptations of his life by others. Perhaps the most notable of these is The Last Emperor, an Oscar winning film based on his life story.

Fascinated by the life and times of Chinese emperors? We are too!

The rich legacy left by China’s emperors infiltrates every aspect of Chinese history, and we can showcase it to you on one of our fully guided multi-day small group and private tours. Our team of travel consultants can advise on enriching activities and experiences that will make for beautiful travel memories from your China vacation. Reach out – We are here to help!

If you’ve ever looked at the traditional Chinese architecture of any ancient building you could be deceived into thinking it all looks the same. 

From colorful artwork to gilded animals, symmetrical design with a deeper meaning, and ornate curved roof corners, it can be very confusing to the Western eye. You might be left wondering What does it all mean?

This is a great question – and one which is best addressed by learning a little about the characteristics of ancient Chinese architecture because it’s in that deeper study we’ll find the answers to other intriguing questions.

Why are traditional Chinese houses (and palaces) built within compounds?

Why is symmetry so important in Chinese architecture?

Why is wood use so prevalent in Chinese buildings?

We know that if it’s your first visit to China, all the pagodas, temples, and imperial palaces can blend into an architectural blur. 

Westerners might agree that Chinese history and traditions are fascinating – and it’s true; it is. What they may not realize is ancient Chinese architecture is integral to China’s culture and traditions – and it endures today, some 4,000 years after the first principles were developed. 

Ready to learn a little about the characteristics of Chinese architecture? 

Let’s do this!

Understand these 7 characteristics of Chinese architecture and know what you’re looking at

It’s said that while Chinese architecture drew influences from India and its Buddhism, in fact, Chinese architecture has inspired architecture and design in neighbouring countries, particularly in Japan, Korea, and Vietnam.

These influences are evident in the characteristics of Chinese architecture and that’s what we cover here. Although there are many unique elements to Chinese architecture, we’ll cover just seven. That way, when you’re traveling China on your first China tour, you’ll have a handle on the basics, allowing you to enjoy a more enriching experience through your understanding.

#1 Special roof molding

Look upon just about any traditional building of significance in China and you’ll notice the distinctive wing angle warping of the roof.

Ancient Chinese books describe this style of roof as ‘flying like a bird’ and while this is a poetic description, the curved design is very practical in nature too. In fact, the upturned corner is ideal for buildings that are supported by columns rather than walls, as the majority of traditional Chinese buildings are. 

Like many aspects of Chinese architecture, the functional aligns to more esoteric considerations. In this instance, the curved roof arose from the Buddhist belief that it could ward off evil spirits, which were thought to only travel in straight lines. 

Curved roof tips are very traditionally Chinese, however, they aren’t found on every ancient Chinese building. They are most commonly on prominent imperial and religious buildings, rather than houses owned by commoners.

#2 Tall building platform (taixie 台榭 )

Another peculiar feature of Chinese architecture is the use of a taixie or high platform. This is where a wooden or stone frame is built around an earthen core, thereby providing support for a tall structure.

Through his study of Chinese architecture, Sicheng Liang identified that traditional Chinese buildings are characterized by three integrated levels: the platform base, body of the house and the rooftop. The platform or taixie works like our feet do. They support the house and roof. And the logic which flows from this? The larger and more robust the platform, the greater the size (including height) of the building.

#3 Symbolic decoration

One thing that catches the eye of most Western travelers to China is the way in which the design of traditional Chinese buildings does double duty as a decoration.

From features, like ridge lip and eave tiles to magnificent doors, stunning windows, and ornate door-knockers, Chinese buildings are a canvas for decorative design and patterns. Many of these decorative features are exquisite wood carvings and work alongside the more functional elements of the main building, which were made typically from wood. It goes without saying the decoration was pivotal – and still is Chinese architectural design.

#4 One complex, multiple courtyards

A first visit to the Forbidden City and visitors are struck by one thing: the number of thresholds and internal courtyards one must walk through to reach the inner sanctum.

Traditional Chinese architecture is characterized by a design that reflects a complex of buildings (siheyuan, the courtyard houses) that enclose open spaces. These enclosed spaces are found as courtyards (an empty space surrounded by buildings) and ‘sky wells’ (an opening to the sky within buildings located close together). Providing visibility, ventilation, and temperature regulation, courtyards were (and still are) valued spaces in which people can congregate and enjoy comfort and privacy. 

In ancient Chinese architecture, the courtyard is believed to reflect the spiritual core of a building complex and the Confusian philosophy that there was a movement from outer to the inner world.  Practically this played out as visitors would need to step across an ever-tightening perimeter that reflected a corresponding reduction in access.

#5 Application of colour

The Xizhou Dynasty (also referred to as the Western Zhou Dynasty of 1046-256 BCE) saw the advent of color used in Chinese architecture, most notably as a feature that distinguished rank and nobility. During this period, the stigma, guardrail, beam and wall of imperial palaces were painted. Over time, vibrant colors became symbolic and were associated with certain architectural features. 

These symbolic hues were a further representation of the intricate nature of Chinese architecture. Here’s just a sample of the meaning behind color and features in a typical ancient Chinese building.

• Black was used during the Qin dynasty, which was dominated by warring states.
• During the Han dynasty, the theory of yin-yang and five elements was developed, and then applied in building design.
• Individual colors represent the orientation of a building or design feature. For example, cyan symbolizes the Azure Dragon and represents (east); red symbolizes the Vermillion Bird (south); white symbolizes the White Tiger (west); black symbolizes Black Tortoise (North), a powerful deity in Taoism (north); yellow is symbolic of the Yellow Dragon and the center.
• Ceilings were generally painted green, while pillars were painted red, gold and blue. Columns and walls were painted red.

Just by looking at the color palette used in a traditional Chinese building, you can interpret the meaning and symbolism that were important in the design. Because the elements of Chinese architecture remained unchanged for around 4,000 years, this understanding provides deep insights into many traditional and ancient buildings that can be discovered on a China tour.

#6 Symmetry and asymmetry

Another unique feature of traditional Chinese architecture is its symmetry. Whether you lived in a palace or a rural farmhouse, integrating symmetry was vital to establishing and maintaining balance. Structures were built on a north-south axis and with two wings to reflect the desire for bilateral symmetry. This approach is found in most palaces, temples, tombs, Yamen offices, and academies.

The approach to traditional gardens and courtyards was different, where an asymmetrical approach was adopted. Allowing more flexibility and freedom in design, the overarching principle is one that reflects harmony with nature.

#7 A predominance of wood

Wood is the dominant material used in ancient Chinese architecture, including across all three components of a structure: the foundation platform, the timber frame, and the heavily decorated roof.

Of these, perhaps the most highly regarded feature is the load-bearing articulated timber frame which did not require glue or nails). Wood was also incorporated into ornamentation, from paper-covered wooden strips to lattice ceilings and recessed ceiling panels, while dougong – interlocking wooden brackets (joinery) – became one of the most important aspects of traditional Chinese architecture. A visit to the Forbidden City and Summer Palace on a Beijing tour provides an insight to some of the finest examples of the use of wood in Chinese architecture.

A final word

There is no better way to gain an appreciation of the complexity, intelligence, and ingenuity applied in traditional Chinese architectural design than to experience it firsthand. Only then is it possible to appreciate the way it reveals each layer; a fact observed by the master of Chinese architecture himself, Mr. Sicheng Liang when he likened traditional Chinese architecture to opening a scroll painting that progressively reveals the overall meaning.

** Information for this article was sourced from Wikipedia, Ancient History Encyclopedia, and Princeton University Press.

ChinaTours.com is dedicated to helping western travelers from the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, and elsewhere enjoy an authentic experience of China, including those keen to learn and appreciate more of China’s culture and traditions, including Chinese architectural design. Many of our tours are culture-focused, offering the chance to dive deep into your exploration and learning. We can also tailor a tour that covers an area or region that is of particular interest to you. Want to know more? Just ask us! We’re here to share your passion for learning and all things culture-related. Enquire via our contact form and we’ll respond within 24 hours.