Lake Kunming, situated in the heart of Beijing within the imperial Summer Palace (Yiheyuan), is not only a picturesque water feature but also a vital element in the traditional Chinese practice of Feng Shui. In the ancient world of Chinese imperial palaces and gardens, every element—be it natural or man-made—was carefully curated to enhance the well-being of the emperor, his family, and the court. This consideration of harmonious energy, or qi, was essential in fostering good health, prosperity, and longevity. Lake Kunming, with its tranquil waters, majestic bridges, and surrounding landscapes, plays a crucial role in this harmonious arrangement.
This article delves into the historical significance of Lake Kunming and its vital function in the practice of Feng Shui within the context of the royal environment. By understanding the relationship between the lake and Feng Shui principles, we can gain deeper insights into the ways in which the imperial court used landscape design to manifest wealth, power, and tranquility.
I. The Origins and Significance of Lake Kunming
Lake Kunming is located within the Summer Palace, one of China’s most renowned imperial gardens and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The Summer Palace, originally constructed during the Qianlong Emperor’s reign (1735–1796) of the Qing Dynasty, was designed to serve as a royal retreat and a place for the emperor and his family to escape the bustling city life of Beijing. The palace complex, which spans over 700 acres, features an artificial lake, classical architecture, and numerous gardens.
1. The Creation of Lake Kunming
Lake Kunming was artificially created as a massive body of water to simulate the scenic beauty of the Kunming region in southwestern China. It was designed as part of the Qing Dynasty’s effort to recreate the beauty of Southern China in the north, mimicking the natural landscapes of famous southern lakes, especially West Lake in Hangzhou. The emperor intended the lake to serve not only as a beautiful sight but also to bring about harmony and prosperity for the royal family. This focus on creating an idealized environment ties directly to the principles of Feng Shui, which emphasizes the flow of energy (qi) through the landscape to promote well-being.
The creation of Lake Kunming was an engineering marvel of its time, as it required the diversion of the Miyun River to ensure that the lake had a constant supply of water. Over the years, the lake was expanded and shaped to enhance the aesthetic value of the surrounding gardens and temples. The lake, surrounded by hillocks and magnificent pavilions, remains a central and vital feature of the Summer Palace to this day.
2. Feng Shui in the Summer Palace
In traditional Feng Shui—the ancient Chinese practice of harmonizing individuals with their environment—water plays a crucial role. The presence of water is believed to attract qi, which brings prosperity, wealth, and success. Lakes, rivers, and ponds are particularly powerful in creating a yang energy (active, expansive) in contrast to yin energy (passive, receptive), making the balance between these energies essential for well-being.
At the Summer Palace, the careful design of Lake Kunming was meant to ensure that water would flow naturally and optimally throughout the grounds, enhancing the qi in the area. The harmonious integration of water, vegetation, bridges, and pavilions created a unique setting where the emperor and his court could enjoy the revitalizing effects of nature while maintaining a balance of energies.
II. Feng Shui Principles Applied to Lake Kunming
Lake Kunming, and the surrounding area, was designed based on various Feng Shui principles aimed at creating balance, peace, and prosperity. The Five Elements of Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water were incorporated into the landscape, each corresponding to different aspects of life, from health to wealth. In particular, water played a vital role in symbolizing abundance and ensuring that qi could flow freely through the landscape.
1. The Flow of Qi and Water
Water is considered the most important element in Feng Shui, often referred to as the “Qi Carrier.” It is believed that water has the ability to carry good energy to a space and is often used in Feng Shui to bring wealth and good fortune. The shape, flow, and placement of water are critical in determining the effectiveness of its energy.
In the case of Lake Kunming, its placement was key to its success in Feng Shui. The lake’s design ensured that water could flow gently without stagnation, creating a continuous, dynamic flow of energy. The gentle curve of the lake, along with the bridges and walkways that crossed it, helped to direct the flow of water and energy in a way that maximized the positive effects on the royal family.
2. The Symbolism of the Bridges and Islands
Lake Kunming is home to several beautiful bridges and islands that are integral to the Feng Shui design. In Chinese culture, bridges symbolize the connection between different realms—in this case, between the mundane world and the divine, as well as the emperor’s relationship with his ancestors and the heavens. The famous Seventeen-Arch Bridge that spans the lake is one of the most iconic elements of the Summer Palace and serves not only as a stunning visual focal point but also as a symbol of passage, bridging the spiritual and material worlds.
The islands in the lake represent seclusion and retreat, offering the emperor and his court an opportunity to meditate, enjoy nature, and seek peace from the pressures of ruling. The islands also represent balance by providing a contrast to the large body of water, symbolizing the yin-yang relationship between the elements.
3. The Role of the Empress Dowager Cixi
The Empress Dowager Cixi, one of the most powerful women in Chinese history, played a significant role in the transformation of the Summer Palace and Lake Kunming. Under her reign, the palace was extensively renovated, and much of the surrounding landscape was reshaped to better align with Feng Shui principles. Cixi was a strong proponent of imperial prosperity and ensured that the palace grounds, including Lake Kunming, were designed in a way that enhanced the emperor’s reign, health, and spiritual well-being.
Her influence on the palace’s design reflected her deep belief in the importance of Feng Shui for imperial stability. She had the Kunming Lake and the entire Summer Palace complex re-engineered to fit her vision of harmony and balance, ensuring that all aspects of the palace would bring good fortune to her and the royal family.
III. The Aesthetic and Psychological Impact of Lake Kunming in Royal Feng Shui
Beyond the physical and symbolic roles of water, the presence of Lake Kunming had a psychological impact on the royal court. The tranquil waters and serene landscape served as a refuge from the stresses of court life, providing a sense of peace, calm, and harmony—essential qualities for the well-being of the emperor and his family.
1. A Space for Meditation and Reflection
The stillness of the lake, coupled with the surrounding greenery and architectural beauty, provided a space for introspection and meditation. This peaceful environment was vital for the emperor’s mental health and decision-making process. The practice of mindful contemplation—often associated with Daoism—was essential for maintaining clarity and focus while managing the vast responsibilities of ruling.
The lake also served as a space for artistic and cultural inspiration. The beauty of the natural landscape was reflected in many aspects of imperial culture, including poetry, painting, and calligraphy. The influence of the lake extended to artistic expressions within the royal family, helping shape the culture of the Qing Dynasty.
2. Fostering Harmony in the Royal Court
Feng Shui’s influence extended to the palace’s interior as well, where the layout and placement of furniture, as well as the careful alignment of rooms and halls, ensured a smooth flow of energy. The lake, serving as a focal point for the entire complex, contributed to the balance of energy in the Summer Palace, benefiting the royal court’s collective harmony.
IV. The Legacy of Lake Kunming and Feng Shui in Modern Times
Today, Lake Kunming remains an important cultural and historical landmark. Its role in the development of imperial Feng Shui continues to be studied and admired. The legacy of the palace’s Feng Shui design has influenced modern garden and landscape designs, both in China and internationally. Furthermore, the lake’s calming waters and tranquil environment continue to attract visitors, who come not only to enjoy the beauty of the landscape but also to experience the energy and history that the lake embodies.
The careful application of Feng Shui at Lake Kunming reflects the deep cultural traditions of the Qing Dynasty and the important role that nature played in imperial governance. Its place in Chinese history is secured, not only as a physical site of imperial leisure and power but also as a lasting symbol of the enduring importance of balance, prosperity, and harmony.
Conclusion
Lake Kunming’s role in the practice of Feng Shui within the context of the imperial Summer Palace is a testament to the sophisticated understanding of nature, energy, and power that existed within ancient Chinese imperial culture. The lake’s design and the surrounding landscape reflect the key principles of balance, prosperity, and well-being, all crucial to the health and success of the royal family. Today, as one of China’s most iconic and cherished landscapes, Lake Kunming continues to embody the timeless principles of **Feng
Shui**, offering a tranquil space where history and nature intersect, and where harmony is eternal.
