A tower in the distance is part of the view at the Humble Administrator's Garden in Suzhou. (China Daily)

To help people better understand the charm of classical gardens, here's Suzhou Garden Museum's summary of some basic principles of landscaping:

・ Hidden depths

These residences feature strictly planned living quarters, with gardens hidden deep within. Deeper still within them, the layout of water features and rockeries in landscaping is dotted with buildings, with paths extending naturally according to the topographical features.

・ Grandness revealed on a smaller scale

These gardens are small, refined and elegant. Their designers attempt to create rich landscapes in a limited space and, in doing so, the whole area is divided into smaller sections. With the major space emphasizing the key scenic elements, such as rockeries and water features, other spaces vary in themes and views.

・'Borrowed scenery'

Designers of these gardens are adept at combining different elements to create a picturesque world. One of the basic techniques in the design is called jiejing ("borrowed scenery"). For example, taking advantage of views outside the garden and turning it into part of the view within the garden.

・ Constantly changing view

Wandering around these gardens, visitors may feel as if they have stepped into a traditional Chinese painting, subtle yet dynamic－every scene is well-planned and framed. Each step brings constantly changing scenery. Streamlined arrangement of the paths, corridors and bridges serve as the guide for visitors.

・ Well-proportioned elements

Everything in the garden is well proportioned. Everything is carefully designed to relate with everything else. All elements present a contrast in size, height, density, color and so on. Water and white walls serve to set off the colorful scenery in the garden to make the landscape more beautiful.