Japanese Buddhist temples generally fall under four primary types of styles:
A style that was developed sometime between the late 12th century and early 13th century, Daibutsuyo exudes grandeur and majesty. Two good examples of this
Japanese Buddhist temples generally fall under four primary types of styles:
A style that was developed sometime between the late 12th century and early 13th century, Daibutsuyo exudes grandeur and majesty. Two good examples of this style are the Jodo-ji’s Amida Hall and Todai-ji’s Nandaimon.
Created by the Zen sect of Buddhism, Zenshuyo is a style that utilises panelled doors, earthen floors, curved roofing materials and cusped windows.
Developed during the country’s Heian Period, Wayo is influenced by contemporary Chinese design. It places importance on the use of plain materials such as natural timber, and favours simplicity through minimal use of ornaments and decorations.
With the Kakurin-ji’s main hall as its best example, Setchuyo is a style that is an amalgamation of the first three styles mentioned.
Temples in the country vary in size, layout, design and other features, but the following are some elements that are commonly found in the majority of them:
- Butsuden – Translated as Hall of Buddha, this is the temple’s main hall, where the Buddha statue is enshrined.
- Hatto – Translated as Dharma Hall, this is a separate structure in a temple complex that serves as a lecture building for Buddhism scriptures delivered by the chief priest.
- Honbo – The official residence of the temple’s head priest.
- So-do – Also called the monk hall, it is a building where monks can practice zazen, eat, sleep, and do various other activities related to zazen.
- Karesansui – Usually found in Zen temp