About Sifu Philippe Tot

Founder of The Lingnan Penjing Academy of Australia

Philippe Tot’s chapter in studying Lingnan penjing began by a stroke of luck in 1984. Being captivated at such an impressionable age, Philippe began studying under the tutelage of Al Yee Jauco in Sydney.
Through studying traditional Chinese ideals, Al Yee saw Philippe had found a unique talent within himself.
A lifelong passion was discovered, which led him to further his studies in Penjing, Lin Shu Qigong, Feng Shui, Ba Gua in Hong Kong under the tutelage of the late Sifu Lee Chun Wu.

In 1994, Philippe Tot sought to further expand his knowledge in the field of horticulture and soon became established in ‘The Chinese Garden of Friendship’ Darling Harbour, Sydney as Penjing Curator and Horticulturalist. At the young age of 17, Philippe Tot created a Penjing Collection in the Chinese Gardens that is one of the highest standard in the country, with his work admired by hundreds of people each day.

Philippe Tot’s main interest has been in continuously expanding his knowledge by studying under various cultures and exploring their relationship with Chinese penjing and gardens. He sought not only the Chinese point of view, but also Japanese, Korean, Vietnamese and Singaporean variations.

In Late 2010 after more than 18 years as Penjing and Garden Curator Philippe Tot altered his period with
the Chinese Garden of Friendship to devote his time to teaching full time at The Lingnan Penjing Academy
of Australia.

He is also writing several volumes on Chinese thought and various teachings, taking him back and forth to China regularly. Sifu Philippe Tot’s core lineage resides in the Lingnan school of thought and he has held dear the values that he has come to love and master, which has taken most of his life to accomplish. Over
the years he has held many talks, conferences and award-winning exhibitions both in Sydney and abroad, teaching students about Lingnan Penjing, Chinese Gardens and their philosophies.