Chinese architecture has historically influenced that of Japan. In spite of this, there are still major differences between the two. One variation with Japanese architecture typically placed people on the floor to sit, whereas that of China had them sitting in chairs. This custom began to change though in the Meiji period (1868-1912).
Another influence, besides lifestyle, is the climate. Japanese have to plan according to the climate and season changes. Since most of Japan has long, hot summers, the houses reflect that by being somewhat raised so that air can move all around. Wood is a popular choice for material because it adjusts well to earthquakes and works well with season changes (cool in summer, warm in winter).
Buddhism as well has greatly influenced Japanese architecture since it's introduction from China during the Asuka period (593-710). Horyuki Temple was built in 607 under the influence of Buddhism, and was registered in 1993 as a UNESCO World Heritage property. The layout of this temple has been unchanged and preserved over the years. The Buddhist deity worshipped at the temple is housed in the main hall, which is the oldest wooden structure in the world and the center of the entire complex.
Another influence, besides lifestyle, is the climate. Japanese have to plan according to the climate and season changes. Since most of Japan has long, hot summers, the houses reflect that by being somewhat raised so that air can move all around. Wood is a popular choice for material because it adjusts well to earthquakes and works well with season changes (cool in summer, warm in winter).
Buddhism as well has greatly influenced Japanese architecture since it's introduction from China during the Asuka period (593-710). Horyuki Temple was built in 607 under the influence of Buddhism, and was registered in 1993 as a UNESCO World Heritage property. The layout of this temple has been unchanged and preserved over the years. The Buddhist deity worshipped at the temple is housed in the main hall, which is the oldest wooden structure in the world and the center of the entire complex.
BUDDHIST ARCHITECTURE
Architecture in Japan with Buddhist influences came from Korea and China in the 6th century. Temples were built for those dedicated to worshipping Buddha, and within each compound there were several buildings for the purpose of housing monks or nuns.
SHINTO ARCHITECTURE
Shintoism is the belief that a kami (deity) lives in practically every natural object ranging from volcanoes and mountains, to waterfalls, rocks and trees. These kami are kept in Shinto shrines and are where people can worship.
Architecture in Japan with Buddhist influences came from Korea and China in the 6th century. Temples were built for those dedicated to worshipping Buddha, and within each compound there were several buildings for the purpose of housing monks or nuns.
SHINTO ARCHITECTURE
Shintoism is the belief that a kami (deity) lives in practically every natural object ranging from volcanoes and mountains, to waterfalls, rocks and trees. These kami are kept in Shinto shrines and are where people can worship.
DESIGN CONCEPT
Initially, Japanese houses didn't have screens to separate rooms, they were just open rooms with little or no privacy. After people began distinguishing rooms with particular functions (eating, sleeping, cooking), the use of screens to partition and separate rooms became popular. These screens are unlike the ones used now in the Western world on our windows, they were self-standing (byobu) and permitted limited privacy for dressing and sleeping.
Initially, Japanese houses didn't have screens to separate rooms, they were just open rooms with little or no privacy. After people began distinguishing rooms with particular functions (eating, sleeping, cooking), the use of screens to partition and separate rooms became popular. These screens are unlike the ones used now in the Western world on our windows, they were self-standing (byobu) and permitted limited privacy for dressing and sleeping.
MODERN ARCHITECTURE
The Meiji Restoration in 1868 introduced modern architectural techniques to Japan, but there was a reversal in this trend in the 1880's with an outcry for more Asian models. Change was reiterated after World War I, when architects like Frank Lloyd Wright and Bruno Taut came to Japan, a reassessment of traditional Japanese architecture took place.
The Meiji Restoration in 1868 introduced modern architectural techniques to Japan, but there was a reversal in this trend in the 1880's with an outcry for more Asian models. Change was reiterated after World War I, when architects like Frank Lloyd Wright and Bruno Taut came to Japan, a reassessment of traditional Japanese architecture took place.
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