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Japanese Architecture
As with the other facets of Japanese culture and lifestyle, Japanese architecture too boasts of some unique characteristics. The oldest remnants of architecture in the country can be traced back to 57 B.C. where most homes were pit dwellings. Over a period of time, the style of architecture in Japan underwent major changes and was influenced majorly by the Korean style of architecture. One of the most conspicuous elements of early Japanese architecture was the use of wooden structures. Early buildings were generally single story structures with architects adding intricate details in the form of saddle roofs, ornamental gables, and other such design elements. The best way to study traditional Japanese architecture is to take a look at Shinto shrines. Most shrines have wooden columns, concentric fences, and thatched roofs. These features were symbolic of basic qualities like purity, quality, and simplicity that are integral to Shintoism. The Japanese style of architecture used some clever techniques that allowed light and breeze to ventilate even very huge structures by connecting the interiors of a house with a garden. Another characteristic feature of Japanese architecture was the use of large roofs. Japanese houses were generally built on a horizontal axis which was a feature that greatly influenced architecture styles in the west in the early 20th century. While today traditional Japanese architecture has been replaced by Western styles in a widespread way, you will still find several houses that have adapted traditional architectural features to suit modern designs for their homes.