Early Religious Architecture in Japan PDF

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Early Religious Architecture in Japan 522- 1185AD Similar to Chinese and Korean architecture. Close to the mainland so adopted some of its culture. China exerted great influence over the development of architecture in Japan. Like all architecture we habe looked at so far, Japanese architecture is a result of complex interplay of structure and proportion, materials and placement. The delicacy and precision with which Japanese master craftsmen brought materials together and enclosed space within them, have some of the most sublime and exquisite aesthetic effects. These craftsmen took the art of building to new heights, so much so that traditional Japanese architecture would actually have a big influence over 20th century architecture in the west, especially with the great American architect, Frank Lloyd Wright. Diverse building typology: -

Shinto shrine Buddhist Temple Palaces and centres of government Mansions and retreats for the elite Commoners housing both rural and urban Military castle and fortification

Some of their designs were so different to what was typical of that structure, that they had to get specialized craftsmen in the carpentry profession to build them. The master builder would tend to choose all the materials themselves. For example, wood from the south side of a tree was better adapted to hot summer sun. The ‘spirit’ for the tree also had to be accommodated within the building. The master builder frequently went out into the mountains to find suitable trees. Timber was the preferred material for important structural elements such as the beams and pillars. The wood tended to be Hinoki- Japanese cypress. Known for its beauty, strength and resilience without being too heavy. Did not warp or distort when it dried. This perfection extended to the buildings practical and geomantic applications in terms of orientation. Buildings would face south, to make the most of sunlight, but also to avoid malevolent cosmic forces that were seen to come from the north (Japanese version of fengshui- Hogaku ‘suspicious/inauspicious directions). Much of Japanese architecture conforms to a grid like system or layout. Because of this, a lot of the components of Japanese architecture could be prefabricated in the workshop off sight, before being labeled and ten carried and transported to the site to be erected. Asuka Period (552-645AD) Nara Period (645- 748AD) The grand shrine at Ise (Shinto Shrine) Not designed to hold a congregation. Izumo grand shrine

Buddhism in Japan – became official religion of japan from around the year 595 AD Increased ties between japan and the mainland, economically and culturally 654 – Japan completely recast in the Chinese mold. Changed an entire civilisation in one fell swoop. Buddhism was a big part of this transformation...