Architecture in Japan

Architecture in Japan

Architecture in Japan boasts of a long history and is eclectic in nature. Japanese architecture reflects profound influence of Chinese and Western architecture. But then over the years the Japanese Architecture has found its own identity. The different kinds of architecture that can be seen in Japan are Religious architecture, Domestic architecture, Castles and Palaces and Present Day or Contemporary Architecture.

Religious architecture of Japan is heavily indebted to China. It was first introduced in the country during the 6th century, with the advent of Buddhism in Japan. The monastery of Horyu-ji built in the late 7th century, reflects the first period in the architecture of Japan. All the religious buildings constructed during this period are marked by frankness of construction, gravity, vital compositions and sparse ornamentation. The 8th century religious constructions clearly indicate that the Chinese architects and architecture influenced the architects of Japan. One of the spectacular religious buildings of this era is the gigantic monastery of Todai-ji. Later on during the Heian period (898-1185), a distinct Japanese style developed which can be seen in buildings like Phoenix Hall at Uji, near Kyoto. With the advent of Zen Buddhism, the style of architecture in Japan changed and by the middle of the 14th century, Buddhist monasteries began to be characterized by eclecticism and rich sculptural adornment. Since then the religious buildings have remained the same in their features, ornamentation and style of architecture.

Domestic architecture is another significant aspect of Japanese architecture. During the Heian period, the prevalent domestic architecture were shinden-zukuri, which were made for the nobles and shinden-zukuri, where the samurai class used to live. The dwelling houses of the Japanese people are marked for its precision and simplicity. The exterior walls of Japanese houses boast of movable panels that slide in grooves. Wood panels, which are primarily used at night or during rainy weather, feature screens of mounted rice paper. The interiors of these houses are subdivided by screens.

Japan is interspersed with many castles and palaces, all of which are renowned architectural marvels. Two of the renowned palaces of Japan were built during the Edo period. The Nijo palace is characterized by opulence that is reflected through the carved wood, black lacquer, gold decorations, and screen paintings of the palace. On the other hand, Katsura palace is renowned for its simplicity and elegance and because of its blend of the outdoor and indoor spaces. All the castles and palaces of Japan are marked by intricacy and daintiness of landscaping along with an adroit arrangement of rocks, pebbles, sand, plants, and water.

The present day architecture of Japan is indebted highly to the Western architecture, especially the architecture of the post world war. Japan was inspired by Western architects like Le Corbusier, Mies van der Rohe, and Frank Lloyd Wright. Since the 1960s the Japanese architects have created their own distinctive style.

Some of the Japanese architects who have achieved international acclaim are Kenzo Tange Tange, Sutemi Horiguchi, Kunio Maekawa, Togo Murano, Yoshiro Taniguchi, Noriaki Kurokawa Kurokawa, and Noriaki.

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