Exploration on the Impact of Traditional Chinese Philosophy on Urban Planning in Ancient China

Abstract

The political system in ancient China based upon Confucian philosophy and the advocation of Taoist philosophy once had profound influence on the urban planning and construction in ancient China, and a relatively complete urban planning and construction system had been developed accordingly. Under the “ritual system” in Confucianism, the central axis of urban roads, spatial sequence of architecture, rigid urban layout reflected the rigid hierarchy and ethical order of the society. Taoist philosophy emphasized the harmony between humankind and nature, and highly valued the protection of ecological environment during the urban construction process. These traditional urban planning system and thought summarized the experience in urban planning and construction in ancient China. We should discard the dross and assimilate the fine essence, and develop the unique cultural characteristics of urban construction in China.