Reading Practice 24

[1] Japanese architecture is distinctive yet familiar to Asian cultures in the Far East. It is based on many different traits found throughout Asia. Although Japanese architecture is best exemplified by elevated wooden structures and sliding doors for walls, there have been many influences over the centuries that have shaped Japan’s architecture today. Another characteristic feature of Japanese architecture is its flexibility. Its ability to reshape rooms adds to the simplicity and universality of Japanese architecture. Due to cultural influences blended with a style that embraces nature and accents fluidity, the Japanese style is one of the world’s most distinctive forms of architecture.

 

[2] Similar to the habitation of early hunter-gatherer people, early Japanese architecture was comprised of pit houses and stores. These early dwellings were simple and suited to the needs of the people, but it wasn’t until the influence of Han Dynasty China through Korea that burial chambers and complex grain stores were introduced to Japan. This marked the first watershed introduction of foreign influence into Japanese architecture. However, in comparison to the introduction of Buddhism, the Han Dynasty’s influence was diminutive. Buddhism introduced the first large-scale buildings as well as sophisticated wood techniques in the construction of temples. In addition, both the T’ang and Sui dynasties influenced the architecture and layout of Japan’s first capital in Nara. Centuries of influence have mixed and combined Asian influences with traditional Japanese architecture. As a result, even the most quintessential architectural icons of Japan still feature reminders of past cultural influences.

 

[3] In spite of Japanese architecture’s diverse background, there are still many universal features that are considered quintessentially Japanese. As a result, there are a number of constants found in architecture across Japan. For example, the preferred construction material remains wood for the majority of Japanese structures. Constructed out of wood planks, the common structure uses posts and lintels to support a gently curved roof. Stone is used for particular structures, such as foundations for podia and pagodas. The most visually impressive feature of Japanese architecture is the roof. Japanese roofing structures double as large eaves providing cover for verandas and walkways. Furthermore, a common effect of these eaves is dimness within the structure that contributes to a ‘Japanese’ ambiance. Of course, these large roof structures require sophisticated supports to endure Japan’s seasonal climate change. However, other characteristic roofs of the region such as arches and barrel roofs are completely absent in Japanese architecture.

 

[4] Another featured trait of Japanese architecture is paper walls that are easily movable to form layouts for the interior. In this way, the interior spaces are fluid and rooms can be modified with these movable walls or even paper screens. The majority of Japanese structures feature one large, open room in the interior which can then be sub-divided into smaller rooms as needed. On occasion, even external walls can be removed to provide vistas for guests to look out of or even allow for more visitors to a temple. Thus, perhaps the most notable traits of Japanese architecture are fluidity and function, which are open to the natural environment surrounding the structure. These types of architectural representations of Japanese culture are a far cry from the excesses found in the aristocracy of Western design.

 

[5] In summary, there are a number of characteristics of Japanese architecture that can be traced to foreign influences. In spite of their origins, Japan’s cultural influences have produced a style and variety of structures that are truly unique. They include eye-catching roofs that sweep out and shade verandas with wooden plank construction and fluid interiors that can be arranged to accommodate guests, hold meetings, prayer, to other, more closed-off architectural styles. The architecture can give insight into the culture itself.