History of fengshui and fenye

Fengshui in China evolved from the ancient cosmological system known as fenye. Originating during the Zhou Dynasty (1046–256 BCE), fenye linked celestial patterns to earthly affairs, serving political and ritual purposes. By the Han Dynasty (202 BCE–220 CE), the compass was first applied to geomantic practices, laying the groundwork for fengshui as a spatial art. In the Tang Dynasty (618–907 CE), tools like cosmological charts and compasses were refined and integrated into manuals, extending fengshui’s reach across the empire. This formalization continued into the Song Dynasty (960–1279 CE). 

During the Ming Dynasty (1368–1644 CE), fengshui expanded beyond elite circles; printing technology facilitated the mass production of manuals, and both literati and commoners adopted its principles. The Qing Dynasty (1644–1912 CE) saw the continued use of fengshui in imperial and local contexts. The arrival of Jesuit “Western Learning” in the seventeenth century brought new astronomical knowledge.

Feng shui first appeared in Japan around 602 AD. It was brought by Guanle (观勒), a Korean monk from the Baekje Kingdom who is said to have introduced the lunar calendar to Japan. He not only brought his understanding of calendars, but also numerous books on feng shui to introduce the art to Japan. Through Soga, feng shui was introduced to Prince Shotoku, one of the most prominent individuals in the history of Japan. From there, feng shui influenced the decision to move the capital from Nara to Kyoto.