The summer capital of the wealthiest empire of the world
Journal
School of Contemporary Chinese Studies Newsletter
Type
newspaper article
Date Issued
2009
Author(s)
Abstract
Today, the imperial gardens of Chengde exude an overarching style of grandeur and significance, and manifest the right and might of the administration that has restored them. In 1994, the UNESCO approved the inscription of Bishu shanzhuang and waiba miao on its World Heritage List. Apart from its significance to the domestic tourist industry, Chengde serves again the political needs of an autocratic and multi-ethnic state. Celebrating the style of its gardens is seen again as a way to celebrate the union of the peoples of China around their leaders. The gardens of Chengde still convey a universal message that is independent from short-term economic and political gains. As Kangxi wrote: "Overlooking clear currents, then We value incorruptibility. Looking at luxuriantly growing grass, then We despise venal dissipation. What We do here is in accord with the ancients' practice of studying nature to understand human character."
Language
English
Keywords
UNESCO
Chengde (Hebei
China)
cultural landscape
landscape architecture
landscape policy
Bishu shanzhuang
Waiba miao
Qing dynasty
Kangxi emperor
HSG Classification
contribution to practical use / society
Refereed
No
Publisher
SCCS, University of Nottingham
Publisher place
Nottingham (United Kingdom)
Volume
2009
Number
3
Start page
xxx
Subject(s)
Eprints ID
215287