Japanese Architecture

• Japanese architecture explores form, function, and tradition.

Learning Objectives

• Define the philosophy and theory of Japanese architecture.
• Explain the architectural elements and styles.
• Illustrate architectural elements and styles.

Philosophy and Theory

• Zen Buddhism emphasizes meditation and realizing the interconnected nature of life.
• Simplicity and tranquility are zen values reflected through clean lines, natural materials, and serene atmospheres.
• Zen architecture emphasizes a harmonious connection between the built and natural environments.
• Zen architecture provides space for meditation, designed to promote inner peace and mindfulness.

Philosophies of Japanese Architecture

• Wabi-sabi appreciates imperfection and simplicity, using aged wood and worn surfaces.
• Ma (間) focuses on empty spaces or pauses in design.
• Respect for nature leads to homes integrated with gardens, trees, or water.

Theories of Japanese Architecture

• Proportions use the "ken" system based on tatami mat sizes to determine room sizes.
• Minimalism ensures every element has a purpose, avoiding unnecessary decorations.
• Indoor and outdoor spaces connect through engawa (verandas), acting as a bridge.

Historical Overview - Ancient Traditions (Pre-6th Century))

• Early architecture was influenced by practicality and harmony with nature, using simple wooden structures.
• Shinto Shrines use wood and thatch which emphasize simplicity.
• Ise Grand Shrine is an example, rebuilt every 20 years to symbolize renewal.
• Raised floors, natural materials, and gabled roofs create key architecture which protects from Japan’s wet climate.

Historical Overview - Buddhist Influence (6th-12th Century)

• Buddhism's import from China and Korea brought new construction and decoration styles.
• Horyu-ji Temple is the worlds oldest wooden building.
• Temples feature pagodas, curved eaves, and intricate joinery.
• There is a design focus on symmetry, grandeur, and spiritual connection.

Historical Overview - Feudal Period (12th-16th Century)

• Feudal lords built castles as symbols of power.
• Himeji Castle (White Heron Castle) stands as an example known for its strategic design and beauty.
• Constructions used stone bases with timber structures
• Samurai homes had gardens and tatami flooring.
• Sliding screens (shoji) were common for creating flexible spaces.

Historical Overview - Edo Period (1603-1868)

• Peace and prosperity shifted focus to aesthetics and residential architecture.
• Tea house structures designed for ceremonies emphasized Wabi-Sabi
• Machiya (townhouses) for merchants featured narrow fronts but deep layouts.
• Construction used wood and peper for lightweight, modular builds.
• Landscape design became integrated into architecture.

Historical Overview - Meiji Restoration (1868-1912)

• Japan opened up to Western technology and styles, which saw the introduction of building materials such as brick, glass, and concrete.
• European-style buildings such as train stations and government offices emerged.
• An an example, Tokyo Station is a western style brick building
• Traditional elements, like tatami rooms, persisted in homes.

Historical Overview - Modern Period (1912-Present)

• Early periods experimented with Western ideas like Frank Lloyd Wright’s Imperial Hotel in Tokyo.
• Post-war rebuilding prioritized function.
• Kenzo Tange combined traditional Japanese forms with contemporary materials.
• An an Example is the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum (1955).
• Contemporary Innovation focused on minimalism and sustainability.
• Tadao Ando and Kengo Kuma used light, space, and natural materials.
• An Example is the Church of Light (Tadao Ando).
• There was material innovation using glass, steel, and eco-friendly materials, retaining Japanese aesthetics.
• A focus was placed on reconnecting urban designs with nature.

Architectural Elements

• Japanese roofs blend functionality, cultural symbolism, and artistic beauty with curved shapes, durable materials, and elegant designs.
• Shoji screens are made of translucent paper stretched over a wooden frame to provide pivacy and seamless transition between inside and out.
• Tatami mats are woven straw foundatino and are used for defining space, comfort, and a sense of order.

Architectural Elements - Roof Styles

• Common roof design incorporated graceful curves, steep angles, and overhanging eaves for practicality.
• Kirizuma-zukuri is a gable roof style.
• Yosemune-zukuri is a hip roof style.
• Irimoya-zukuri is a gambrel roof.

Architectural Elements - Structure

• Japanese structures reflect simplicity, flexibility, harmony with nature, and resilience to natural disasters.

Architectural Elements - Shoji and Tatami

• Shoji screens are sliding doors or room dividers with a wooden frame covered translucent paper.
  • Allows natural light, maintains privacy, and creates a serene atmosphere
  • They feature being lightweight, easy to move, and flexible for opening or closing spaces as needed.
  • These screens reflect Japanese philosophy of simplicity and harmony with nature.
• Traditional Tatami mats are woven straw and used to create space.
  • They Provide comfortable space for sitting.
  • Tatami flooring enhances cleanliness,
  • In Japanese culture, these spaces are a central part of traditional living, used in tea rooms, temples, and homes and their natural scent and texture enhance calming atmosphere.