• Tang Dynasties (618-907)

• Five Dynasties (907-960)

• Song Dynasties (960-1279)

• Yuan Dynasties (1279-1368)

• Bricks

• Ceramic tiles

• Rammed earth

• Stone

• Wood/Timber

• Balance and symmetrical Layout

• Complex of buildings and structures

  • These edifices enclose and create roomy spaces and airy courtyards.

Major components:

• Columns, beams, and purlins

  • Connected by tenons and mortises

• Heavy overhanging roofs

  • Built with ceramic tiles

  • Wide eaves

  • Slightly upturned corners

  • Supported by purlins, brackets and beams

Interior decorations:

• Carved beams and painted rafters with various patterns

• Couplets hung on the pillars

• Inscribed boards

• Wall paintings

Exterior decorations:

• Stone lions

• Screen walls

• Ornamental columns