Horyu-ji Temple Complex

A representative temple complex of the Nara period located in Nara City. The Great Buddha Hall is one of the world's largest existing wooden structures, exemplifying the pinnacle of ancient Japanese architectural engineering. The complete complex, including the main hall, south gate, and Shosoin storehouse, embodies the aesthetics and engineering of the Nara period.

Located in Ikaruga, Nara Prefecture, Hōryū-ji comprises Japan's oldest wooden architecture dating from the Asuka period. Traditionally founded in 624 CE, it preserves the five-storied pagoda and Main Hall, the world's oldest existing wooden structures. Comprising eastern and western temple complexes, it exemplifies Hakuhō-period architecture and is registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

A representative temple complex of the Nara period located in Nara City. The Great Buddha Hall is one of the world's largest existing wooden structures, exemplifying the pinnacle of ancient Japanese architectural engineering. The complete complex, including the main hall, south gate, and Shosoin storehouse, embodies the aesthetics and engineering of the Nara period.

Traditional wooden merchant houses representative of Kyoto. Called 'unagi no nedoko' (eel beds) for their narrow frontage and deep structure, they ingeniously use tsuboniwa gardens and tori-niwa corridors for light and ventilation. Recently, renovations into cafes, guesthouses, and shops are advancing, revaluing them as spaces fusing tradition and modernity.

A leading Japanese architect known for his 'anti-object' philosophy of fusing natural materials like wood and bamboo with modern architecture. Gaining worldwide attention for designing the Japan National Stadium, he creates architecture harmonizing with the environment globally, including the Nezu Museum and Starbucks Reserve Roastery Tokyo.

A leading Japanese architect who advocates 'architecture that loses'—buildings that harmonize with rather than dominate their environment. He extensively uses natural materials like wood, bamboo, stone, and washi paper. Widely known as designer of the New National Stadium for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, he is one of the most prolific Japanese architects working globally.

Traditional wooden townhouse architecture found in Japanese cities, particularly Kyoto. Characterized by their narrow frontage and deep interior, nicknamed 'eel beds,' they incorporate torinawa passages and tsuboniwa courtyard gardens to bring in light and air. In recent years, preservation and renovation efforts have intensified, with many repurposed as cafes and accommodations.