Evolution of the Japanese Architecture
Japan’s architecture is greatly influenced by Chinese architecture. However, several variations occur in Japanese structures. Typically, structures are built to make people sit on the floor. Further, since Japan has long summers, wood is major material for house building. Aside from its adaptability to season changes, it is also a reliable material to withstand earthquakes, which are common in the place.
Several periods in the history of Japan brought about architectural structures that came from different influences. The Nara period has structures imitating that of a Chinese capital which even included a checkerboard street pattern. During the Heian period, a style termed as shinden zukuri was popular. It is best illustrated with the Tosanjo Palace. During the Muromachi period, tea cottages became very popular.
During this period, simplicity was emphasized, and so with the harmonious relationship between the cottage and its garden. An example is the Katsura Rikyu. In the 16th century, castles were built that is evident of the shoin zukuri style. Popular structure of these is the National Treasure of Japan. From 1912 onwards, Japanese architecture is slowly infusing with western architecture with the use of bricks and stones for building.
Japanese architecture is basically categorized to four types based on the influence: the Buddhist architecture, the Shinto architecture, the Design concept and Modern architecture.
Buddhist architecture usually composes of seven buildings in each complex. These building include the pagoda, the main hall and the lecture hall, a bell tower, dormitory, dining hall and a repository for sutras. The pagoda is usually in the center and holds the most sacred relics.
Shinto architecture is based on the belief of the presence of deities in the natural environment. They build shrines with stone lanterns in the pathway towards it. The shrine also has two komainu statues that guard its main halls. The structures of these influence consists of a temporary main hall for special occasions and a simple shape like granaries of ancient Japan. An example of these is the Ise Shrine in Mie Prefecture.
The design concept of Japanese architecture involves the use of screens to partition rooms in their houses. What became popular even up to the present is the use of paper-covered sliding doors or known as the shoji. Further, the inclusion of a Japanese veranda in the house links together the inside and outside environment.
With the restoration of the Meiji architecture, modern techniques came to Japan. Modern architecture involves infusing the traditional one with science and technology to build infrastructures that it aimed to overcome earthquakes in the country. These structures are the Kasumigaseki Building and the Yoyogi National Stadium. GP
Posted in Japanese Architecture on September 21, 2008 - 11:34 pm by admin |
