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“Lou” and “ge” towers:

Elevating wisdom

楼与阁：靠近天空的智慧

The terms “lou” and “ge” towers denote different styles of tall, multi-story structures
found in ancient China, each exhibiting unique architectural features.
A “lou” tower is defined as a multi-story structure. Originally, these were built at
heights for defense and surveillance purposes. From the Eastern Han Dynasty (25-
220) onwards, Taoist culture began to flourish, shaping the understanding of “heaven”
as a dwelling place for immortals. Thus, ascending tall towers became a symbolic
act and a spiritual aspiration.
A “ge” tower is a type of storage space distinguished by its open lower level.
Originating from stilt houses, these structures feature columns that lift the floor
above the ground, fostering an airy and open atmosphere that encourages ventilation
and prevents moisture buildup.
There is another type of building, distinct from “lou” and “ge” towers, yet in-
corporating building techniques and architectural features from both—this is the
pagoda, which is related to the introduction of Buddhism into China. The Yingxian
Wooden Pagoda in Shuozhou City, Shanxi Province, is the only remaining wooden
tower-style pagoda in China.

Rear and front halls:

Majestic and solemn

殿与堂：宏大与庄严

In traditional Chinese architecture, halls are the central structures that symbolize
status and grandeur. The term “rear hall” (dian) was originally the elevated section
of a building, indicating its substantial form and significant status. Over time, it be-
came associated with royal residences, ceremonial sites, and religious structures. The
character for “front hall” (tang) appeared relatively early, originally meaning the part
of a building that opens outward in contrast to the inner chamber. Its purpose is for
ancestral worship and to commemorate virtuous predecessors and heroes.
Both the rear and front halls are typically situated at the center or along the main
axis of architectural complexes, including palaces, temples, and royal gardens. The
decoration of the emperor’s halls is particularly opulent, featuring top-tier compo-
nents crafted from the finest materials and of the highest value. The use of vibrant
colors and intricate patterns further emphasizes the emperor’s grandeur.

Altars:

Connecting humanity and the divine

祭坛：人神之间的桥梁

Altars serve as sacred spaces for ancient rituals, creating a connection between
people and deities through offerings and prayers. The ritual system has its roots in
the natural worship and primitive agriculture of early societies. Our ancestors inte-
grated their understandings of the gods of heaven and earth, the sun and moon, the
state, and ancestral farmers into these practices, refining them into distinct concepts
such as directions, yin and yang, and layouts. Initially held in open natural settings,
these rituals eventually evolved into the construction of earthen platforms, which
later developed into intricately designed stone and brick structures.

Residences:

A reflection of culture and tradition

宅：玲珑院内有乾坤

“Residences” refer to the living spaces of individuals and families, with architec-
tural styles varying widely based on climate, environment, and cultural influences. In
China, many seemingly modest homes reveal a unique blend of survival wisdom and
familial traditions.