Thick thatched roofs and rough mud plaster walls. Intricate carved wood transoms and precisely woven tatami mats—each element of traditional Japanese architecture tells a story. These stories encompass the particular development, construction, function and symbolism inherent in historic architectural elements. From roofs, walls and floors to door pulls and kettle hangers, this book situates these elements firmly within the natural environment and traditional culture of Japan.
This book provides a comprehensive perspective of traditional Japanese architecture, relating the historical development and context of the buildings and gardens of Japan while examining the stories of the individual architectural elements.
