Communications in Humanities Research ISSN: 2753-7072
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Research Article

The Influence of Politics in Different Chinese Dynasties on the Central Axis of Beijing

Nan ShaoUniversity of Sydney*

* Corresponding author: [email protected]

Abstract

The Beijing central axis is an iconic feature of the city’s urban layout, stretching from the Drum Tower in the north to the Forbidden City in the south. It has played an essential role in shaping Beijing’s urban landscape and reflects the city’s political, cultural, and social history. This academic essay centers on the impact of political factors on the development and design of the central axis in Beijing and its advantages and drawbacks for the city, utilizing a cohesive narrative of dynastic transitions. Since the Yuan dynasty established Beijing as the capital, urban layout focused on symmetry and set the groundwork for the central axis construction in later dynasties. As imperial power grew stronger during the Ming and Qing dynasties, the central axis development continued, particularly with the construction and expansion of the Forbidden City, demonstrating the significant impact of political factors on urban planning. This influence persisted into the modern era with Beijing remaining the political and cultural centre of China. The contemporary planning of the central axis has prioritised the integration of historical and cultural preservation with modern development, exemplifying the harmony between the past and present.

Keywords: politics; central axis; Beijing; Chinese dynasties
Published: September 14, 2023
DOI: 10.54254/2753-7064/5/20230370
Volume: CHR Vol.5
pp. 461-468
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