• 天人合一 = “nature and humankind becomeone”
• It is important to connect with nature even in an urban setting
• A Garden is a microcosm of the larger world of nature
• Harmonizes the original landscape with addition of human designs
• Designed to create a sense of wonder and dis-covery; not reveal all at once
• Captures the sensation of wandering through alandscape painting

Architecture

• Structures harmonize with and enhance nature; frame views; connect to calligraphy and poetry
• Paths lead one through a succession of hidden delights
• Offers places for contemplation, viewing, writing, and conversation

Water

• Water evokes images of rivers, lakes, oceans
• Reflects and enhances its surroundings
• Can be still or changing
• Adds sound
• Key element in garden/landscape painting

Plants

• Willow signifies pliability, spiritual protection, friendship, spring
• Lotus rises from the muddy depths to bloom; a sign of purity; harmony; summer
• Chrysanthemum is associated with longevity and autumn
• Pine is a symbol of longevity and winter
• Plum is resilience, hope; symbol of winter/early spring
• Peony can represent wealth, honor, beauty, love

Rocks

• Evoke mountain ranges and towering peaks in nature
• Can reference mountains in paintings, poems, or life
• Can be pitted, patterned, intricate
• Act as a focus for contemplation
• Can represent a particular region
• Symbolize stability and permanence
• Key element in garden/landscape painting

Framed Views

China garden design uses openings to frame views, bringing a visitor’s attention to that particular view or focal point. Designers use a variety of openings, like “leaky (open pattern) windows,” doorways, and gaps in vegetation to create a sense of discovery.

Hide and Reveal

The Chinese garden design principle of “Hide and Reveal” takes the visitor on a journey of discovery through the garden and invites one to wonder what is around the next corner, rather than showing everything at once.  This is achieved by blocking views, hinting at views, and slowly revealing various focal points and features.

Borrowed Views (Jie Jing)

Chinese garden design may incorporate surrounding vistas and views outside the garden, rather than hiding them. Working with views outside of the garden can form backdrops to what is inside the garden and can increase the sense of space.

Feng shui and Yin-Yang

Chinese garden design uses Feng Shui principles to harmonize the garden. It also embodies Taoist principles of Yin-Yang by harmonizing opposites and creating a balance between contrasts, such as light v. shaded areas, solid elements (like rocks) v. open spaces (water and courtyards), curved v. straight pathways, and secluded introspection spots v. areas for social interaction and activity.