Active Tours - Tour Designers Office

Buddhism has greatly influenced Japanese architecture since its introduction　from China in the 6th century. Another influence is the climate and the risk of earthquakes. Japan has a long and hot summer with dense moisture, and wood is a popular choice of　material because it adjusts well to earthquakes and works well with the different seasons -　cool in summer and warm in winter.
The Tea Ceremony required a special construction of a tea-house and tea-room called　‘sukiya-zukuri’. Castles were built in the 16th century by the infiltration of feudal lords into Japanese society. Carpenters called ‘Miya-daiku’, who are specialized in the construction or re-construction of Shinto Shrines and Buddhism Temples,　were said originally to have been monks, follow the tradition and keep strict rules and regulations with professional techniques and knowledge which are still used today.
After the Meiji Restoration, in the 19th century, and World War II,　the rapid change to modern architecture　was repeated in major cities. Today, Japanese architects enrich postmodern designs with innovative spatial perceptions, subtle surface texturing, unusual use of industrial materials and a developed awareness of ecological and topographical problems.

11-day Tour; getting in touch with the works of typical Japanese carpenters in traditional wood construction and also modern architect including special seminars by JIA (Japanese Institute of Architects) in Tokyo & Kyoto. 2010 and up to 2012 will be a good chance to watch construction sites of Sky-tree (new tower of 634m) and re-construction of Himeji Castle.