The Aesthetics of Temple Gardens: Research on the Application of Zen Philosophical Principles in the Design of Zen-inspired Landscapes

Abstract

The study of Zen aesthetics within temple garden design initiates with an exploration of the spatial configurations of traditional Chinese temple gardens. It delves into the origins and concepts of Zen-inspired landscapes, summarizing the elements and techniques of landscape design drawn from real-world temple examples and historical texts. Furthermore, the integration of Zen philosophical thoughts and aesthetics into these landscapes is examined, with a particular focus on the strategic placement of plants and the employment of core aesthetic principles. This analysis sheds light on the embedded Buddhist cultural themes, offering practical recommendations for crafting Zen-inspired landscapes.