Chinese Architecture

Ancient Chinese architecture is not only a source of reference for modern Chinese design, it has also had an international influence and attracted global attention. Moreover, architectural remains in China reveal much about the history of this ancient civilisation. The palaces, gardens, temples, tombs and dwellings of the Chinese people reflect, for example, the military achievements of the Qin emperor, the spirit of the Tang Dynasty, the palace intrigues of the Ming Dynasty, the diversity of Chinese culture through the ages and the skill of countless generations of craftsmen and labourers. Chinese Architecture provides an accessible, illustrated introduction to this essential part of China's cultural heritage.

1. Ancient cities; 2. The supreme imperial power; 3. The palaces of gods; 4. Appreciation of Chinese gardens; 5. Vernacular dwellings; 6. When East met West; Appendix: chronological table of the Chinese dynasties.

Ancient Chinese architecture is not only a source of reference for modern Chinese design; it has also attracted significant global attention. Moreover, architectural remains in China reveal much about the history of this ancient civilisation. Chinese Architecture provides an accessible, illustrated introduction to this essential part of China's cultural heritage.

Yanxin Cai received her PhD from Tongji University, Shanghai. She now teaches at the Faculty of Architecture at Jiaotong University, Chengdu. Her research focuses on the protection and restoration of traditional Chinese architecture.