Chinese gardening
An Introduction to
Classical Chinese Gardens
 For centuries, Chinese gardens
have displayed a delicate balance
between the forces of nature and
man’s creations. These luxurious
gardens provide a spiritual haven
from worldly worries.
 A delicate balance of five key
elements will make up the USNA’s
(US National Arboretum )
Classical Chinese Garden,
creating a setting where visitors
can learn, relax and enjoy.
 Water is
considered to be
the central
component of a
Chinese garden. It
serves as a
balance for the
other elements in
the garden. The
best sites in
Chinese gardens
are on the edges of
lakes with views of
the mountains.
 Chinese scholars used
rocks as art on their
desks. Garden rocks that
are often large and
porous are considered to
be among the most
valuable in a Chinese
garden. These ageless
objects symbolize the
dwellings of Taoist
immortals.
 Certain plants were
favored for Chinese
gardens because of their
association with
overcoming the
limitations of ordinary life.
The pine, cypress, plum
and bamboo are
favorites because of their
ability to grow in harsh
weather conditions and
rough terrain.
 The arrangement of
buildings divides a
Chinese garden into
smaller sections that
contain one or more
scenic views. The
buildings in a garden are
designed to accent the
garden with windows
and doorways that frame
scenic views in their
courtyards and beyond.
 A garden design is
considered to be an
art form in China.
Other Chinese art
includes: calligraphy,
painting, poetry,
dance, flower
arranging and
viewing stones.