I have had the original book in hardcover, published in 1955 by Shokokusha Publishing for 30 years. It was a true work of simple elegance. I have gained so much from the message of Zen influenced Japanese architecture conveyed in its powerful images and sparse text. However, the newer version is so dominated by text and "Kodak Moment" photography, intermixed with the original photos, that it has lost its origianl character and power. To be sure, one can still gain insight and knowledge about traditional Japanese architecture from this newer version. The orginal publication, however, was presented in a form that embodied the message of the material. Less is more....infinitley more!! Too bad that new generations will not be able to enjoy the shear eleagant simplicity of the original, published presentment. We are all the poorer for it.

This book contains an amazing amount of high quality information. The pictures and words are insightful with no trace of the pedant or show.

A very intelligent work.

Great buildings, shrines and temples, farmhouses , construction details and material are presented in magnificent photographs. Readers will also understand the abstract ideas and the nature of the taditional Japanese architecture. One of the best books ever published in English about this subject. For home designers, I recommend: A Japanese touch for your home by Koji Yagi.