Nature within Walls: A Close Look into Chinese Classical Gardens

Classical Chinese gardens hold a unique and significant place in traditional China’s architectural culture. Within their enclosing walls, the small garden is filled with pavilions, ponds, artificial hills, flowers, birds, fish, and more. These natural and human-made elements create a space that is all-encompassing, intricate, dense, yet somehow free from chaos. Much like a Chinese landscape painting full of poetic details, these gardens foster a profound sense of tranquility and freedom for the mind.

Enlisted as the world’s cultural heritage, Suzhou literati gardens exemplify the essence of traditional garden design. They embody the philosophy of following the nature’s principles, while pursue “the virtue” (“德”), representing “the unity between heaven and humanity” (天人合一).

In this online seminar, participants will get a close look of the details of Suzhou literati garden. In addition to appreciating the exquisite garden art, participants will gain insights into how nature is perceived and revered in traditional Chinese culture.

2 hours of CTLE credits are offered for New York State teachers attending this program.
In partnership with New England Chinese Language Teachers Association (NECLTA) and Chinese Program at Tufts University, PDP certificate is available for NECLTA members.

This two-hour online seminar will be in Chinese.
该讲座为中文。

Learn More About the Program

This program is made possible through the support of the Center for Language Education and Cooperation, the ECNU Center, and generous supporters of China Institute in America.