Japanese Traditional Architecture, Kake-zukuri

The traditional Japanese society was strongly connected with the nature, so even next to their castles the wealthy lords were also building a garden, often featuring a pond. To admire the view, they were also building a pavilion or even an entertainment residence, like the one photographed here in the Japanese garden located right next to the reconstructed Kokura Castle.

The house was built on wooden pillars, in the kake-zukuri overhang style made famous by the Kyoto temple Kiyomizu-dera. In this case, the traditional architectural style offers a great view over the garden and, at the same time, the visitors can enjoy the air freshness offered by the lake...