Abstract—The survival and development of human beings are profoundly affected by global climate change and environmental degradation. Therefore, building a low-carbon society has become a global common goal. Buildings need to consume a lot of natural resources and energy during the process of construction and operation; this is one of the main sources of greenhouse gas emissions. The transformation of the urban development model from extensive to refined would be inevitably caused if ecological development can be achieved; this is the goal of green buildings. The harmonious coexistence of man and nature is advocated in Chinese traditional culture. After thousands of years of development, Chinese traditional houses that are represented by the pit courtyard embody the characteristics of historical rationality and sustainable development, and would inevitably have a lasting influence on the theory of green building.