Since wood can breathe, it is suitable for the Japanese climate. Wood absorbs humidity in the wet months and releases moisture when the air is dry. With proper care and periodic repairs, traditional post-and-beam structures can last as long as 1K years.


There is, however, another side to Japanese culture that is not as well known — the appreciation of exuberant colors and complexity of form in contrast to the restrained tradition with its simplicity and asymmetry. This is exemplified by Chinese style shrines and temples and the mausoleums at Nikko. Ceremonial buildings are designed to impress and thus tend to be more exuberant than residential architecture, where the goal is to provide a tasteful and relaxed atmosphere for the occupants.


Regardless of whether circumstances call for restraint or exuberance, Japanese architects, builders, artists, and craftspeople pay a great deal of attention to detail. Even when the overall effect of a building is simple, particularly when it is viewed from a distance, a close-up inspection of the building often reveals numerous details that add interest.


In both cases, the Japanese welcomed foreign influences and attempted to copy what were perceived to be superior cultures. A reaction eventually set in, with the result that foreign influences were assimilated and made part of the Japanese tradition. Rather than being overwhelmed by foreign cultures, the Japanese repeatedly have demonstrated a talent for creatively blending different influences into new styles that express basic Japanese values and aesthetic preferences.


The structure that most concretely indicates status and function is the gate. Gates have practical significance in terms of controlling access to spaces. They also have symbolic significance in that their design, size, and materials indicates something about the wealth and power of their owners or the people who enter.


Literally, tore means “where the birds are.”


The purpose of a residential garden and gate is not so much to impress others as to provide a sense of intimacy and relaxation in a busy world.


About 12K years ago, when the Ice Age ended, the climate warmed and sea levels climbed, cutting Japan off from the mainland.


The rebuilding program requires a massive expenditure of resources, time, and money since it involves replacing 65 structures and approximately 16K artifacts that fill them. This quires a small army of carpenters, thatchers, sculptors, metal workers, cloth makers, and other craftspeople.