International Architecture in Interwar Japan

More about the book

Set in post-World War I Japan, a new architectural movement emerged as young architects embraced "international architecture," or kokusai kenchiku. They designed residences and public buildings that harmonized Japanese and Western customs, utilizing modern forms and materials like earthquake-resistant reinforced concrete. This fusion of tradition and innovation reflects a significant cultural shift, showcasing how architecture adapted to the needs of a changing society. Ken Tadashi Oshima, an assistant professor of architecture at the University of Washington, explores this transformative period.