Customer Reviews

The Art of Japanese Architecture

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After an extensive search, I found the above description of THE ART OF JAPANESE ARCHITECTURE in a Library Journal listing. While there is nothing in book itself or on Amazon to indicate that it is but a revision of Introduction to Japanese Architecture, as a result of comparing the two books in their entirety, line by line and illustration by illustration, I can assure you that this is indeed the case.

In general, both books give one who is not knowledgeable about it an excellent overview of Japanese architecture from its beginnings through modern times via a well-written, easy-to-grasp text. What will also appeal to those just beginning to study Japan is that the architecture is discussed in context--i.e., in a narrative that includes details about locations, gardens, statuary, historical events/people, and religion.

Both books also abound in illustrations, all in color. Of ART's 370, 216 are photographs, 39 of which are 1-to-2-pg. spreads, 80 of which range from 3 x 5 to 3/4ths of a page. Included, too, are the following, which, with 9 exceptions, also appear in INTRO:
-24 watercolors of sites showing their structures and landscaping, often at least 1/2 a page in size;
-20 layouts/floor plans;
-88 drawings/watercolors of individual structures, construction and architectural details;
-19 paintings and woodblock prints.

As for the differences between the two books-- While ART is 48 pages longer than INTRO, what accounts for most of these pages is the addition of 51 photographs, 32 of which are full- or 2-page spreads, 10 of which are 1/2- to 3/4th-page ones.

In regards to the text, ART adds only approximately 368 lines, the equivalent of 3.5 pages (two 56-line, 2.5-inch-wide columns per page). Though most do add information about the architecture, the additions are scattered throughout the 173-page book and typically amount to but a phrase here or a sentence or two there of descriptive detail. In only 21 instances is a paragraph or two added. And only occasionally is the information a result of findings made since INTRO was published. ART also omits the equivalent of a page of text because it excludes INTRO's section on Tomb Mounds. (Excerpts from it, however, comprise the first "comment" on this review.)

So which book do I recommend? Currently, it really depends on which is more important to you: price or photographs. Be aware, however, that both books paint Japanese architecture in broad strokes--i.e., the details about the architecture of specific structures rarely exceed a paragraph. If you are looking for a book that goes into technical detail, What is Japanese Architecture?: A Survey of Traditional Japanese Architecture will probably be more to your liking even though its illustrations are limited to line drawings. --B. Evans, 1/19/08

Note: If you are trying to compare ART/INTRO with other books, a printable copy of the Table of Contents is in the commentary following my review of Introduction to Japanese Architecture. Unfortunately, neither book has an index.

I know little about Japanese architecture but found this book very instructive and easily readable for the novice. I shared it with freinds who have lived in Japan for over 20 years. They were quite impressed at the authenic quality of the research and the wonderful illustrations. Another friend, a landscape architect, was delighted that so many of the fine photos showed how important landscaping is the Japanese architecture. The photos and illustrations are supurb. The book doesn't just dwell inhistoricism but brings you up to date with modern Japanese works as well. I feel it is one of the best purchases I've made in a long time.

I picked this book up because my client was a collector of Japanese art. The book was very useful in explaining Japanese architectural traditions and technique. It's on the order of Engel's "The Japanese House" but much less expensive, and filled with beautiful color shots of intereiors and non-residential work as well. I recommend it for any designer who wants to clear his/her head of the hectic clutter of contemporary design. Just say Om.

I decided to buy this book after having taken it out of the local library last summer. It is a good overall survey of Japanese architectural styles down through the centuries of Japanese civilization. If (like me) you are just looking for something that will give you an idea of the different styles of Japanese archtecture, get this. It is very clearly written and well illustrated with excellent photographs and color drawings. If you are looking for more specific information on temple/shrine architecture of the Edo period for example, or for ideas for your own dream home, it would be best to choose something else, possibly also by the Youngs.