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Chinese Garden, Singapore

Mazoto Kyio
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Built in 1975 and designed by Prof. Yuen-chen Yu, a well-known architect from Taiwan, the Chinese Garden's concept is based on Chinese gardening art. The main characteristic is the integration of splendid architectural features with the natural environment. The Chinese Garden is modelled along the northern Chinese imperial style of architecture and landscaping.

The Garden's main features include the following:

Bridge - In the art of Chinese gardens, bridges play an important role; they are one of the most important structures and may denote the characteristics of various periods of civilizations. The 'Pai Hung Ch'iao' Bridge (the white rainbow, 13-Arch Bridge) at the Garden follows the style of the 17-Arch Bridge at the Summer Palace in Peking.

Main Arch Building - As you cross the bridge, upon entering the garden, you are welcomed by this renowned and typical Chinese arch building. Its magnificent and grandiose form has made it very popular for picture-taking. Inside the main arch building, expect to find two courtyards, namely the "Early Spring Courtyard" and "Garden Courtyard". Also, there is a fishpond in the centre which is named the "Fishes Paradise".

Stone Boat and Tea House - A famous traditional feature of Chinese architecture is the Stone Boat structure. Its unique design and splendid architectural beauty is a fine art which has long been praised by people throughout the world. The style of 'Yao-Yueh Fang' (the Stone Boat) in the Chinese Garden is based on an adaptation of the Peking style design. The 'Ming Hsiang Hsieh' (Tea House) is a miniature structure following the style of the elaborate, winding gallery at the Summer Palace. This meandering design is a characteristic and graceful Chinese architectural feature.

Pagoda - In ancient times, the pagoda, originally a simple tower located beside a temple, was used for the keeping of human bones by Buddhists. Later, with improvements in architectural skills, incorporated with the traditional art of building, the pagoda was developed into a structure of striking architectural beauty. The 'Ru Yun Ta' (7-storey pagoda) is situated on a small hill in the Chinese Garden. Its typical pagoda design follows the style of Ling Ku Temple Pagoda at Nanking. More on: www.visitsingapore.com