What is best translation tao te ching?

As an AI language model, I cannot give opinions but I can provide some information about the best translations of Tao Te Ching.

The Tao Te Ching is a foundational text of Taoism, a Chinese philosophy focused on the nature of existence. It is made up of 81 verses or chapters that are often cryptic and metaphorical in nature, making translation a difficult task.

However, some popular and well-regarded translations of the Tao Te Ching include:

1. Stephen Mitchell's translation - This version is often praised for its poetic and accessible language, making it a popular choice for beginners.

2. Red Pine's translation - This version is highly regarded for its accuracy and attention to detail, with extensive notes and commentary on both the text and the translation process.

3. Ursula K. Le Guin's translation - This version is praised for its poetic and evocative language, as well as its focus on the feminist themes present in the original text.

4. Jane English and Gia-Fu Feng's translation - This version has become a classic, with its blend of simplicity and elegance and its emphasis on the philosophical core of the Tao Te Ching.

Ultimately, choosing the "best" translation will depend on individual preferences and priorities, such as poetic language, accuracy, and accessibility.