What is meant by a prized feng shui location?
The ideal location is decided by evaluations of five criteria which are:
1 Dragon (read mountain range formation)
2 Hillocks
3 Water
4 Focal point or Dragon point
5 Orientation or alignment
Traditionally, the selection is based on a detailed study of the area and without doubt requires lots of climbing and traversing of terrain. It is a saying that one way to identify a master worth his salt is the tan of his skin! A dark tan would show that he has done his homework. No helicopter those days. Even if he had one, he would still need to alight and taste the water to know its quality, maybe sniff the air even. (Because the taste of the water would also reveal information, for example, a tardy bitter taste might point to an abundance of male Qian energy)
A precious feng shui location actually means that it is suitable for agriculture, commerce and easily defended. What is called a kao shan or high ground at the rear forming a wall means that there is protection from strong winds as well as offer condensation of moisture such that crops can grow.
Hillocks are features of an undulating terrain which is suitable for irrigation and agriculture with little likelihood of water logging.
A suitable orientation obviously will mean good sunlight and rain.
Water sources naturally are very important for agriculture and also they were important means of transportation. Under such gentle weather conditions and natural fertility makes for a land conducive to agriculture and rearing of livestock. What can be more prosperous when trees grow and livestock thrive?
I like the picture above. It says it all. It is like a geography class, isn’t it?
Picture acknowledgement Wang Qi Ting
