The Great Gardens of China

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The garden, a space for refined pleasure and spiritual relaxation, has its origins in ancient China. Western travelers, from Marco Polo onward, have admired the intricate designs, elaborate structures, and thoughtful use of plants and water in Chinese landscapes. This book showcases the visual splendors of China’s finest gardens through stunning photography and accessible text, making the rich heritage of Chinese garden design understandable for gardeners, architects, and designers alike. It begins with an overview of Chinese beliefs and the historical evolution of garden design, discussing key aesthetic elements such as architecture, rock stacking, waterscapes, plants, borders, and scenic routes. The author, an expert in the history and theory of both Chinese and international gardens, highlights specific sites, including renowned cultural heritage locations like the Summer Palace in Beijing and the gardens of Suzhou—Lion Grove, Humble Administrator’s, Lingering, and Master-of-Nets Gardens—alongside lesser-known gems. This comprehensive exploration immerses readers in the art of Chinese classical gardens, offering insights that can inspire the integration of these unique designs into Western gardening practices. The potential influence of Chinese gardens on global garden design is profound, provided their versatility is fully appreciated.