The Planning and Abortion of National Parks during the Period of the Republic of China

The origin of the National Park can be traced back to the late 19th century in the United States, a concept that was subsequently emulated by numerous countries worldwide. At the dawn of the 20th century, the idea of the "National Park" was introduced to China, attracting considerable attention from the contemporaries. After the founding of the Nanjing Nationalist Government, initiatives and practical steps were taken concerning the establishment of national parks. In 1929, park designer Chen Zhi drafted the "Taihu National Park Proposal", advocating the transformation of the "National Park" concept in modern China from a visceral understanding to an academic notion. By 1936, after the return of the British-leased area of Guling in Lushan to Chinese sovereignty, the Lushan Management Bureau planned to develop it into a national park. However, due to the prevailing situation, these aspirations ultimately went unrealized. As a lens through which to understand China's modern transformation, national parks can reflect various multifaceted dimensions, including economic, ecological, political, social, and aesthetic aspects. Exploring the introduction, planning, and practical outcomes of the national park concept during the period of the Republic of China, and this paper can provide insights into the construction of contemporary national parks.