Spiritual Influence on Japanese Architecture and Garden Designs

The traditional architecture of a country reflects its unique culture, and even spiritual attainment to a certain degree. As early as the Yayoi period (300 BC - 300 AD), the ancient Japanese constructed storage houses called Kura, as Buddhism grew in popularity, Kura evolved into large - scale Buddhist temples. One of the most unique features of Japanese architecture is Gassho - Zukuri, a roof resembling Buddhist praying hands pointed to the sky. Japanese architecture is strongly influenced by Zen ideology and there is great emphasis on integrating nature into building designs. Influenced by Zen Buddhist teachings of peace and simplicity, the Japanese people love their living space clean, uncluttered, and in order.