LC Chinese School is increasingly incorporating cultural activities into summer programs to enhance students’ learning opportunities and give them a deeper understanding of Chinese culture.
The LC Chinese School’s summer camp program is designed for children and teenagers aged 7 to 17. Week 5 also features a particular course on Chinese architecture. Students’ language proficiency can be enhanced while learning more about Chinese culture by including terms and phrases related to architecture in language classes.
Unique Features of Ancient Chinese architecture
古代中国建筑, Gǔdài Zhōngguó Jiànzhù, or ancient Chinese architecture, has a long and fascinating history and reflects the development of Chinese culture, art, and beliefs through thousands of years. Its distinctive characteristics set it apart from other architectural designs worldwide.
Wooden Dougong System (斗拱, Dǒugǒng)
The wooden Dougong system, a sophisticated interlocking system of wooden brackets that supports the roof without needing nails or glue, is one of the most recognizable aspects of ancient Chinese architecture. With the help of this clever method, structures can endure earthquakes while still showcasing the impressive artistry of ancient Chinese builders.
Roofs with Sweeping Eaves (悬山顶, Xuánshān Dǐng)
Roofs with sweeping eaves are a common characteristic of ancient Chinese architecture. These roofs offer shade, channel rainfall away from the building, and create an eye-catching appearance. Typical roof decorations include glazed ceramic tiles (琉璃瓦, Liúlí Wǎ) and detailed sculptures of legendary creatures that stand for good fortune and protection from evil spirits.
The Chinese Courtyard House (四合院, Sìhéyuàn)
四合院, Sìhéyuàn, or Chinese courtyard home, is another prominent feature of ancient Chinese architecture. Four buildings circle a central courtyard (庭院, Tíngyuàn) in this residential layout, achieving a harmonic balance between indoor and outdoor living areas. The design of Siheyuan also adheres to the Feng Shui principles (风水, Fēngshuǐ), ensuring a smooth flow of energy (气, Qì) throughout the house.
Emphasis on Hierarchy and Symmetry
Ancient Chinese architecture strongly focuses on hierarchy and symmetry, illustrating the significance of social order and tranquility in Chinese culture. A central axis is frequently used to symmetrically arrange buildings, with the main structure (主体建筑, Zhǔtǐ Jiànzhù) taking center stage. This idea is demonstrated in the architecture of imperial palaces, such as the Forbidden City (故宫, Gùgōng).
Integration of Art and Calligraphy
Art and calligraphy’s aesthetic and symbolic functions are essential to constructing ancient Chinese buildings. Several traditional facilities include intricate carvings made of wood, stone, or brick (木雕石刻, Mùdiāo Shíkè), and Chinese character inscriptions (书法, Shūfǎ) frequently carry words of good fortune, joy, and longevity.
Conclusion
Students can gain a deeper grasp of Chinese culture and tradition by studying Chinese architecture during summer programs. Students can learn more about China’s rich and varied history by investigating the historical, philosophical, and artistic elements that have influenced its architecture. Sign up for our SUMMER CAMP in 2023 to learn more about Chinese architecture.
FAQs
1. Will my child be able to interact with native Chinese teachers?
Yes, we provide opportunities for children to interact with native Chinese teachers through language courses, joint activities, or cultural events. It can help children practice their language skills in real-life situations and better understand Chinese culture and customs.
2. Besides architecture, will the summer camp provide other cultural courses?
Yes, Students will learn and experience Chinese culture through our Fun classes, such as Kung fu, Calligraphy, Tai qi, etc. Our Summer Camp runs for 9 weeks from 12th June 2023 to 11th August 2023.
3. What do the different colors in ancient Chinese architecture symbolize?
Red symbolizes luck and joy; yellow represents strength and imperial authority; green represents development and prosperity; and blue represents immortality and harmony in traditional Chinese architecture.
Sign up for our SUMMER CAMP in 2023 to learn more about Chinese architecture.
Get to know holidays in China in 2023.
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Read about the Spring Festival Celebration on NRK’s website: https://www.nrk.no/norge/harens-ar-1.16270652#top.
