榭 (xiè) - Pavilion — an open-sided structure, often built on

榭Tone 4

xiè ｜ 14 strokes ｜ radical:

想信

榭 · xiè

Pavilion — an open-sided structure, often built on a platform over water or in gardens, used for leisure, viewing scenery, or poetry gatherings.

Pavilion — an open-sided structure, often built on

Usage highlights

Waterside pavilionGarden pavilionMountain pavilionPalace pavilionPavilion and terracePavilion and hall

Synonyms

  • 亭— pavilion (usually smaller, freestanding)
  • 阁— pavilion/tower (often multi-storied)
  • 轩— pavilion/veranda (elegant, open-sided structure)

Usage & contexts

Examples

  • We enjoyed tea in the waterside pavilion (水榭).
  • The garden features an ornate pavilion (亭榭).
  • Ancient poets composed verses in mountain pavilions (山榭).
  • The palace complex included a grand ceremonial pavilion (宫榭).

Collocations

  • Waterside pavilion(水榭)
  • Garden pavilion(亭榭)
  • Mountain pavilion(山榭)
  • Palace pavilion(宫榭)
  • Pavilion and terrace(台榭)
  • Pavilion and hall(轩榭)

Idioms

  • Towers, terraces, and pavilions(楼台亭榭)
  • Waterside pavilions and mountain terraces(水榭山台)
  • Pavilions in mist and rain(烟雨楼榭)

Cultural background

FAQ
  • 榭 represents classical Chinese garden architecture, designed for harmony with nature and contemplation.
  • Traditionally built near water or on elevated sites to enhance the viewing experience of natural scenery.
  • Commonly featured in literati culture as spaces for scholarly gatherings, poetry composition, and musical performances.
  • Symbolizes leisure, refinement, and the integration of architecture with the natural environment.

FAQ