Chinese Architecture Glossary

Schematic Drawing and Pagodas

• Mingtang represents a ceremonial hall in the schematic drawing
• The primary purpose of a Pagoda is to serve as a beacon or a watchtower

Zhonglou and Gulou Structures

• The primary function of Zhonglou and Gulou structures is to serve as a bell tower and a drum tower, respectively

Shang Dynasty Architecture

• The key characteristic of Shang Dynasty architecture is the use of rammed earth for construction

Lingtai Structure

• The primary function of the Lingtai structure is to serve as an astronomical observatory

Siheyuan and Mingtang Structures

• Siheyuan and Mingtang structures are related in that they are both types of traditional Chinese courtyard houses

Xia and Shang Dynasties

• The battle of Mingtiao marked the transition from the Xia Dynasty to the Shang Dynasty

Great Wall of China

• The primary goal of constructing the Great Wall of China is to protect the country from invaders

Ancient Chinese Architecture

• The use of iron and glass was not a characteristic of ancient Chinese architecture

Yangshao Culture

• The ancient walled town of the Yangshao culture is Jiangzhai

Feng Shui Principles

• The ancient Chinese architectural site known for its incorporation of Feng Shui principles is the Temple of Heaven

Shang Dynasty Palace

• The key architectural feature of the Shang Dynasty palace at Panlongcheng is the use of rammed earth for construction

Jian 'Wind Water'

• The significance of Jian 'wind water' in Chinese architecture is that it represents the harmony between nature and human dwellings

Feng Shui Colors

• The color that represents Earth in Feng Shui is yellow
• The colors associated with the YIN aspect in Chinese connotations are black, dark blue, and dark green

Dougong Construction

• The design principles applied in the construction with dougong are the use of interlocking wooden brackets to support roofs and ceilings

Yuantong Temple

• The 'Bright Hall' at Yuantong Temple serves as a place of Buddhist worship