Daoist and Confucian foundations of the architectural concept of longevity in China

Abstract

The purpose of the study is to identify the Daoist and Confucian foundations of the architectural concept of longevity in traditional Chinese architecture. In analyzing dwellings, gardens, temples, decorative elements, and feng shui principles, the article distinguishes four analytical levels of the architectural expression of the idea of longevity: the natural-spatial, socio-ritual, symbolic-decorative, and functional-everyday levels. The scientific novelty lies in distinguishing direct, mediated, and interpretive connections between architecture and longevity. The study establishes that Daoist principles are manifested primarily in the harmonization of architecture with nature, whereas Confucian principles find expression in the hierarchy of family and lineage spaces.

Research materials

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Author information

About this article

Publication history

• Received: July 13, 2026.
• Published: August 31, 2026.

Keywords

• архитектурная концепция долголетия
• традиционная архитектура Китая
• даосские принципы
• конфуцианские принципы
• architectural concept of longevity
• traditional Chinese architecture
• Daoist principles
• Confucian principles

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© 2026 The Author(s)
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