The Essence of Japanese Architecture I

Japan is a land of earthquakes and typhoons, yet its forests are abundant with durable ‘hinoki’ (cypress) timber. Yutaka Saito’s anthology on the nature, materiality, and history of Japanese architecture examines 29 religious structures and temples. Built for long-lasting endurance, with an architectural continuity that in some instances has been maintained for more than a millennium, these primarily wooden buildings are the result of specific natural conditions. Saito expertly guides the reader through a richly illustrated analysis of Japan’s historic periods and influences, detailing innovations and techniques that have contributed to the essence of its traditional architecture.