What Is a Japanese Pagoda?

Definition

• A Japanese pagoda is a square tower that is usually part of a monastery used by Buddhist monks. It served as a temple and housed sacred relics. Each of its levels, ascending, is slightly smaller than the last, resulting in a pyramid-like structure that is topped by a spire.

Construction

• Japanese pagodas are typically constructed from wood with interlocking beams and posts and a central column. The buildings are tall and slender and consist of five stories. The roofs boast wide overhangs, with clay tiles. Pagodas are extremely sturdy and are designed to absorb the movements of the earth, making them resistant to earthquakes and typhoons.

Famous Examples

• Kyoto's Toji pagoda is one of the most famous in Japan. Kyoto's Hoshoji was an octagonal pagoda, and was the tallest structure in Japan at 83 meters (272.3 feet) until destroyed by fire in the 15th century during the Onin War.

History

• The pagoda was introduced to Japan from China, and was influenced by the Indian stupa. The Horyu-ji pagoda, near Nara, dates back to the late seventh century.

Symbolisim

• The square shape symbolizes the earth. The center column is considered the "axle of the world" and the spire on top of the structure represents Buddha as master of the universe. Each level represents one of the five elements: wind, water, earth, fire and sky.