Visit These Places in Japan for Experiencing Traditional Architecture
Posted by The Tokyotraveller on July 19th, 2017
Traveling to Japan to see the country’s incredible traditional architecture is a pilgrimage you should take if you are a lover of architecture and design. Exemplifying ‘wabi sabi’ or beauty that is ‘imperfect, impermanent, and incomplete,’ traditional Japanese design is all about structures and buildings that seem to blend effortlessly into their natural surroundings. There is nothing like it elsewhere in the world.
Nowhere is traditional Japanese architecture more evident than in Kyoto’s Katsura Rikyu villa, which many critics have called the finest wooden structure in the entire world. Katsura Rikyū, which is one of Kyoto’s imperial properties, is widely regarded to be the pinnacle of Japanese traditional architecture and garden design. It was built in 1624 for the emperor’s brother, Prince Toshihito. Set amid an otherwise simple and plain neighborhood, it is, literally an island of incredible beauty. Every conceivable detail of the villa—from the lovely teahouses to the large pond with islets and the surrounding garden—has been given meticulous attention and detail.
Located in the Nara region is the famous Tōdai-ji's Daibutsu-den, with the Daibutsu (Great Buddha) as the centerpiece of this grand temple. This is another example of Japanese traditional architecture. It is listed as one of UNESCO's World Heritage sites, with its origins dating back to AD 728. The Daibutsu is housed in Tōdai-ji's Daibutsu-den (Great Buddha Hall), the largest existing wooden building in the world. Quite remarkably, the present structure, which was rebuilt in 1709, is a mere two-thirds of the size of the original, which is a testament to the skill and craftsmanship of its builders.
Nijo Castle in Kyoto is also noted for its traditional architectural qualities. Its main showcase is the stark contrast between its solemn appearance and amazingly beautiful interiors. Built in 1603 as the Kyoto residence of the then Tokugawa Shogun, Nijo Castle is a great place to explore. Wander past the inner walls to Honmaru Palace to appreciate the lush garden, rich history, and heritage. Another site to visit is Ninomaru Palace, known for its five connecting buildings made of cypress and lavishly decorated in gold leaf. From there, you can continue on to the Kinkaku-ji Temple (Golden Pavilion), Kyoto's most popular temple with its beautiful Japanese garden, which widely considered to be the most authentic and exquisite of its kind in the world.
About the Author:
This article is written by Romash Bhatt, Founder & CEO of The Tokyotraveller. The Tokyotraveller is a Trip planning platform that lets you plan your trips in Japan and help you to create a travel plan and download an itinerary to keep track of the spots you’ve chosen to visit in Japan.
