Publications
Building Layout Inside Rural House Compounds in Special Preservation Areas for Historic Landscape: The Case of Six Village Sections Such as Okuyama , Asuka , Kawahara , Noguchi , Oka and Shimasho in Asuka Village
Research on rural house compounds in Asuka Village, Nara Prefecture, reveals that dominant building layout patterns adhere to traditional Japanese auspicious principles regarding position and orientation. The study analyzed six village sections—Okuyama, Kawahara, Noguchi, Asuka, Oka, and Shimasho—classified into three groups based on their street layouts: clustered villages, east-west axis street villages, and north-south axis street villages. A hypothetical model was developed to assess the development patterns of main buildings, extensions (tsunoya), and outbuildings (huzokuya, hanare). Field research confirmed that these patterns align with historical Japanese beliefs about the auspiciousness of a house's location and direction.
Rethinking Asuka Sculpture
A groundbreaking re-evaluation of Asuka sculpture challenges the long-held belief that Japanese Buddhist art lagged behind Chinese counterparts by a century. By proposing new dating for iconic statues, such as the Hōryūji Kondō Shaka Triad, this study reshapes our understanding of early East Asian artistic exchange and the development of Buddhism in Japan. The revised chronology highlights local processes and uncovers previously unknown historical details, offering a fresh perspective on a pivotal period in East Asian history.
Analyzing the Characteristics of Buddhist Art in Japans Asuka Period: A Case Study of Horyu-ji Temple
Buddhist art from Japan's Asuka period (6th century AD) reflects profound Chinese cultural influences, blending Northern and Southern Dynasty styles with Western Regional elements. Horyu-ji Temple exemplifies this fusion, showcasing classical charm and exquisite craftsmanship that shaped Japanese artistic aesthetics. The study analyzes its architecture, Buddha sculptures, and paintings to highlight how Chinese artistry established dominance in Japan's cultural development during this era.
Research on the Development Plan and the Method of Heritage Preservation and Utilisation in Asuka Village
Asuka Village, recognized as the cradle of Japan's statehood, has established a pioneering model for heritage preservation and utilization through its 'Traditional Scenic Beauty Preservation Plan' and 'Development Plan.' Over 40 years, these plans have guided the village's growth while safeguarding its historical resources. This study reveals that Asuka Village's approach balances preservation with development by analyzing changes in its Development Plan and examining three heritage improvement projects. It identifies evolving concerns and methods in heritage management, offering insights into how ancient villages can be preserved for future generations through strategic planning.
Regeneration of Underused Natural Resources by Collaboration Between Urban and Rural Residents: A Case Study in Fujiwara District, Japan
A collaborative effort between urban and rural residents successfully regenerated underused semi-natural grasslands, known as Uenohara, in Japan's Fujiwara District. Once a vital local commons providing resources like thatch, fertilizer, and forage, the area fell into disuse due to social changes, leading to vegetation succession and biodiversity decline. The regeneration initiative, involving traditional practices such as thatch cropping and controlled burning, highlighted three key factors for addressing underused natural resources: active management for use, the intrinsic value of place ('placeness'), and the preservation of traditional knowledge. This case study demonstrates how diversified participation, role-sharing governance, and shifting benefits can restore ecological and cultural value to degraded landscapes.
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