Artist/Designer: Japanese
Project Location: Kyoto, Japan
Style/Period(s):
Shoin-zukuri (書院造), Sukiya-zukuri (数寄屋造り)
Primary Material(s):
Wood, Stone, Washi paper, Tatami, Thatch
Function(s):
Government, Religious Building, Residential Structure, Imperial Villa
Related Website(s):
Significant Date(s):
1615
Additional Information:
The Katsura Imperial Villa (桂離宮, Katsura Rikyū) in Nishikyō-ku, Kyoto, is an iconic Imperial residence renowned for its exquisite traditional Japanese gardens and tea houses. Built in the early 17th century by Prince Toshihito of the Hachijō-no-miya family and expanded by his son Prince Toshitada, the villa spans approximately 69,000 square meters on the west bank of the Katsura River. Its design reflects the refined aesthetic sense of the early Edo period, featuring staggered Shoin buildings, a central pond garden, and four meticulously placed o-chaya (tea houses). Historical records note Prince Toshitada’s direct involvement in the garden’s design, inspired by The Tale of Genji, and the villa served as a space for poetry recitals, moon-viewing, and leisurely boat rides.
The Katsura Imperial Villa seamlessly blends architecture and nature, embodying the Japanese cultural ethos of appreciating seasonal beauty. The use of sliding doors and open verandas creates a fluid connection between indoor and outdoor spaces, showcasing harmony with the surrounding landscape. As an Important Cultural Property, the villa stands as a timeless example of Japanese artistry and continues to inspire admiration for its elegant simplicity and integration of design and environment.
Artist:
Unknown
Address:
Katsuramisono, Nishikyo Ward, Kyoto, Japan
Significant Dates:
Constructed: Initial development began around 1615, with major phases completed in 1620, 1641, and 1662.
Designated World Heritage Site: 1994, as part of the Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto.
Renamed: Officially named "Katsura Imperial Villa" in 1883.
Opened to the Public: First public viewing permitted in 1878.
Major Restoration: Comprehensive repairs conducted during the "Showa Restoration" (1976–1991).
Books in Print / Resources:
・Matsumura, Y., Isozaki, A., Speidel, M., Taut, B., Gropius, W., Tange, K., Dal Co, F., & Ponciroli, V. (2005). Katsura Imperial Villa. Milan: Electa Architecture
・Isozaki, A., & Ponciroli, V. (2011). Katsura: Imperial Villa. London/New York: Phaidon Press
・Horiguchi, S., Harada, J., & Sato, T. (1952). The Katsura Imperial Villa. Tokyo: Mainichi Press
Category:
Imperial Facilities
Tags:
Japanese Interior, Japanese Architecture, Imperial Villa, Wood, Kyoto, Japan
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