First published in 1978, this volume attempted to explore the meanings and cultural forces that lie behind Chinese gardens. Maggie Keswick traced the Chinese garden back to its origins, and explained its influence on, and how it was influenced by, philosophy, art, architecture and literature. This work is an exploration of how Chinese civilization manifested itself in the art of garden making and design. This new edition is revised and re-illustrated. It includes an annotated section of gardens open to visitors in China.