Return to the Land

Synopsis: Centred on the core concept of ‘harmony between heaven, earth, humanity, and the divine,’ this theoretical work in the field of urban-rural landscape reconstruction employs the ‘anti-planning’ theory as its cornerstone. It critiques the ecological and cultural destruction wrought by urbanisation and calls for a return to land ethics.

In the Urban Chapter, the author condemns the absurdity of China's ‘urban cosmetic surgery’ movement over the past two decades, pointing out planning pitfalls such as blind imitation of the West, pursuit of superficial forms, and overreliance on engineering solutions. Proposing the ‘anti-planning’ theory, it advocates prioritising the designation of no-build zones and establishing ecological security frameworks, while championing ‘vernacular landscapes’ and opposing ostentatious design. In the Rural Chapter, the author emphasises the value of rural landscapes such as farmlands and villages, viewing them as the ‘art of survival’ and the foundation of a harmonious society. It also warns that the ‘New Rural Construction’ initiative risks undermining traditional human-land relationships and land ethics, potentially triggering dual crises. In the Heritage chapter, the author proposes a new aesthetic of ‘grassroots culture,’ advocating for the protection of diverse heritage from a commoner's perspective. Natural systems are viewed as ecological infrastructure, with ‘anti-planning’ advocated to safeguard their integrity.

The book's core thesis lies in identifying contemporary crises as stemming from alienation from the land. It calls for restoring harmony among ‘Heaven, Earth, Humanity, and the Divine,’ achieving sustainable development through approaches like ‘anti-planning,’ warning against the pitfalls of ‘rural urbanisation,’ and stressing the importance of respecting the laws of the land.