author: Yun Qiao rating: asin: 3211830103 binding: Hardcover list price: $140.00 USD amazon price: $94.61 USD

The Taoist buildings and gardens and their relationship to natural elements, history and legends provide a rare insight into the ethereal world of Taoism. Taoist buildings have basically evolved from the traditional square Chinese courtyards. The main halls built on the central axis serve as places of enshrinement and worship for statues of Taoist gods, as well as for conducting ritual ceremonies. Many Taoist temples have a small garden. In hilly areas, these gardens have been built to gracefully echo the surrounding landscape. These temples abound with sculpture, calligraphy and stone inscriptions.