The “Back to the Mountain, Face to the Water” Land Formation – Stability and Sustainable Development
One of the most renowned land formations in Feng Shui is “Back to the Mountain, Face to the Water.” This formation suggests that a house should have its back to a mountain or high ground and face a river, lake, or stream. This setup is believed to be the ideal image of harmony between nature and humans.
From a Feng Shui perspective, the “mountain” represents a solid foundation and a gathering place for positive energy, while “water” activates wealth and symbolizes money and prosperity. When these two elements come together, they not only provide structural stability to a home but also bring positive energy, helping homeowners achieve career stability, abundant wealth, and peace of mind.
Feng Shui expert Nguyen Van Minh shares, “The ‘Back to the Mountain, Face to the Water’ land formation is not only beneficial for wealth but also helps homeowners maintain their position in their careers and social relationships.”

The “Four Symbols” Land Formation – Balancing Yin and Yang, Attracting Vital Energy
The “Four Symbols” land formation is a highly regarded traditional Feng Shui setup inspired by the four symbols of Eastern culture: Azure Dragon, White Tiger, Vermilion Bird, and Black Tortoise.
- In front (Vermilion Bird): Open space with unobstructed view represents an open future.
- Back (Black Tortoise): A hill or tall structure provides a solid foundation like a mountain.
- Left (Azure Dragon): The presence of water or a path symbolizes vital energy and wealth.
- Right (White Tiger): A low obstruction is needed to balance energy.
The harmonious combination of these elements turns a house into a gathering place for vital energy, boosting careers and bringing good fortune, health, and peace to the homeowners.

The “Spacious Ming Tang” Land Formation – An Open Space to Welcome Good Fortune
“Ming Tang” refers to the open space in front of a house where it receives vital energy and positive energy from the surroundings. A spacious Ming Tang, unobstructed by structures, trees, or tall fences, allows for smooth energy flow, bringing wealth, prosperity, and long-term development to the homeowners.
When the Ming Tang is narrow or blocked by large objects (such as utility poles, flagpoles, dead trees, or walls), the energy flow is disrupted, negatively affecting the health, well-being, and finances of the residents.
Therefore, when buying or building a house, it is essential to consider the Ming Tang, as this seemingly small factor can significantly impact the overall Feng Shui of the property.
The “Crescent-Shaped” Land Formation – Gathering and Retaining Wealth
A crescent-shaped land formation, resembling an embracing arm, is believed to be a “wealth-retaining” structure. This setup creates a sense of protection and shelter, instilling a feeling of safety and stability.
According to experts, this land formation has a “vital energy-gathering” effect, retaining positive energy and wealth for the long term. It is suitable for those seeking to build a prosperous and sustainable life for their families. Residential areas designed in a crescent shape, surrounding a central area, are a prime example of this land formation.
Advice from Feng Shui Experts
In addition to choosing the right land formation, it is crucial to consider the overall shape, direction, and surrounding terrain. Avoid building on weak geology, cut or split land, or areas near pollution sources and negative energy. Even the best land formation may be ineffective if it doesn’t match one’s destiny or is influenced by external factors.
“Feng Shui is about harmony between humans, nature, and the living environment,” says expert Minh Tuan. “Knowing when enough is enough and choosing wisely will ensure that luck is always by your side.”
Information provided is for reference and contemplation only.