Four Facets of Contemporary Japanese Architecture: Theory from edX

This series will explore four facets of contemporary Japanese architecture; theory, technology, city, and humans. It will also span five generations of architects since Kenzo Tange. Through lectures by instructors and discussions with the most influential Japanese architects, the course will trace the development of contemporary Japanese architecture and will consider its future direction.

In this first course, we will focus on one of the four facets of Japanese architecture: theory.

The theory portion will feature discussions with architects who played a significant role in influencing the development of theoretical frameworks that contributed to guiding contemporary Japanese architecture. Terunobu Fujimori, Arata Isozaki, Hisao Kohyama, Kengo Kuma, Hidetoshi Ohno, and Kazuyo Sejima will visit their buildings and discuss the ideas behind their respective works.

In the coming courses on technology, city, and humans, the following leading Japanese architects will discuss their work — Tadao Ando, Shigeru Ban, Manabu Chiba, Sou Fujimoto, Hiroshi Hara, Itsuko Hasegawa, Toyo Ito, Kengo Kuma, Fumihiko Maki, Kazuhiko Namba, Yusuke Obuchi, Satoko Shinohara, Yoshiharu Tsukamoto, and Riken Yamamoto. Don’t miss the rest of this great series!

Production Team

Music by Jun MiyakeOrganized by (T_ADS) Kengo Kuma, Yusuke Obuchi, Toshihiko KiuchiFilmed by Hiromoto Oka

What's inside

Learning objectives

Development of contemporary japanese architecture since the 1964 tokyo olympics
Features of works of influential japanese architects

Theories behind practices in contemporary japanese architecture
Present concerns and potential future directions for contemporary japanese architecture

Development of contemporary japanese architecture since the 1964 tokyo olympics
Features of works of influential japanese architects
Theories behind practices in contemporary japanese architecture
Present concerns and potential future directions for contemporary japanese architecture

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Covers historical development of contemporary Japanese architecture since the 1964 Tokyo Olympics

Provides a deep understanding of the theories behind practices in contemporary Japanese architecture

Develops critical thinking skills through discussions with renowned Japanese architects

Features prominent architects who share their design philosophies and insights

Introduces a comprehensive perspective on the evolution and future direction of Japanese architecture

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Four Facets of Contemporary Japanese Architecture: Theory with these activities:

Review Japan's Metabolist Movement

Show steps

Reviewing this movement will provide context to better understand the theoretical framework of contemporary Japanese architecture.

Browse courses on Japanese Architecture

Show steps

Read articles or watch videos about the Metabolist Movement.
Take notes on the key principles and ideas of the movement.
Identify examples of Metabolist architecture in Japan.

Analyze Japanese Architectural Structures

Show steps

Through this practice, you will develop a deeper understanding of the theoretical concepts behind Japanese architectural design.

Browse courses on Japanese Architecture

Show steps

Select a Japanese architectural structure to analyze.
Study the structure's design, materials, and construction techniques.
Identify the theoretical concepts that influenced the structure's design.
Write a report or give a presentation on your analysis.

Attend a Lecture by a Japanese Architect

Show steps

Engage with key figures and gain insights into the current trends and debates in contemporary Japanese architecture.

Browse courses on Japanese Architecture

Show steps

Research upcoming lectures or conferences by Japanese architects.
Attend a lecture or conference.
Take notes and ask questions during the lecture or conference.

Five other activities

Expand to see all activities and additional details

Show all eight activities

Discuss Architectural Theories with Peers

Show steps

Engage with fellow students and exchange ideas to enhance your understanding and develop critical thinking skills in Japanese architectural theory.

Browse courses on Japanese Architecture

Show steps

Form a study group with classmates.
Select architectural theories to discuss.
Prepare presentations or discussions on the selected theories.
Meet regularly to discuss the theories.

Participate in a Japanese Architecture Workshop

Show steps

Immerse yourself in practical design exercises and engage with experts to refine your understanding and skills in Japanese architectural design.

Browse courses on Japanese Architecture

Show steps

Research upcoming architecture workshops focused on Japanese architecture.
Identify a workshop aligned with your interests and skill level.
Register and attend the workshop.
Actively participate in design exercises and discussions.

Write an Essay on Japanese Architectural Theory

Show steps

Solidify your knowledge and develop critical writing skills by synthesizing concepts and theories related to Japanese architecture in a formal essay.

Browse courses on Japanese Architecture

Show steps

Select a specific topic or aspect of Japanese architectural theory.
Research and gather information from relevant sources.
Develop a thesis statement and outline for your essay.
Write a draft of your essay.
Revise and finalize your essay.

Guide Newer Students in Understanding Japanese Architecture

Show steps

Reinforce your knowledge by assisting and guiding students new to Japanese architecture, fostering a supportive learning community.

Browse courses on Japanese Architecture

Show steps

Identify opportunities for mentoring within your course or organization.
Offer support to students seeking guidance in understanding Japanese architecture concepts.
Provide constructive feedback and encourage critical thinking.

Contribute to an Open-Source Japanese Architecture Project

Show steps

Engage with the open-source community and apply your understanding of Japanese architecture concepts to real-world projects.

Browse courses on Open Source

Show steps

Identify open-source architecture projects related to Japanese architecture.
Select a project that aligns with your skills and interests.
Review the project's documentation and codebase.
Contribute to the project by submitting code, documentation, or design ideas.

Career center

Learners who complete Four Facets of Contemporary Japanese Architecture: Theory will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Architectural Historian

Architectural historians research and write about the history of architecture. They need to be familiar with the major architectural theories and styles, as well as the work of influential architects. This course would be very useful for architectural historians who want to learn more about contemporary Japanese architecture.

See salaries and explore the career path for Architectural Historian

Architectural Critic

Architectural critics write about and evaluate architecture. They need to have a strong understanding of architectural theory and history, as well as the ability to analyze and critique buildings. This course may be useful for architectural critics who want to learn more about contemporary Japanese architecture.

See salaries and explore the career path for Architectural Critic

Architect

Architects design buildings and other structures. They need a solid understanding of architectural theory, as well as the latest building technologies. This course may be useful for architects who want to learn more about contemporary Japanese architecture and its theoretical underpinnings.

See salaries and explore the career path for Architect

Electrical Engineer

Electrical engineers design and build electrical systems. They need to have a strong understanding of electrical engineering principles, as well as the ability to work with other professionals to design and build complex systems. This course may be useful for electrical engineers who want to learn more about contemporary Japanese architecture and its implications for electrical engineering.

See salaries and explore the career path for Electrical Engineer

Urban Planner

Urban planners develop plans for the use and development of land in urban areas. They need to be familiar with the principles of urban design, as well as the social, economic, and environmental factors that affect urban development. This course may be useful for urban planners who want to learn more about contemporary Japanese architecture and its implications for urban design.

See salaries and explore the career path for Urban Planner

Sustainability Consultant

Sustainability consultants help businesses and organizations reduce their environmental impact. They need to have a strong understanding of sustainability principles, as well as the ability to work with businesses and organizations to develop and implement sustainability strategies. This course may be useful for sustainability consultants who want to learn more about contemporary Japanese architecture and its implications for sustainability.

See salaries and explore the career path for Sustainability Consultant

Mechanical Engineer

Mechanical engineers design and build machines and other mechanical systems. They need to have a strong understanding of mechanical engineering principles, as well as the ability to work with other professionals to design and build complex systems. This course may be useful for mechanical engineers who want to learn more about contemporary Japanese architecture and its implications for mechanical engineering.

See salaries and explore the career path for Mechanical Engineer

Real Estate Developer

Real estate developers acquire land and develop it for residential, commercial, or industrial use. They need to have a strong understanding of real estate markets and finance, as well as the ability to work with architects, engineers, and other professionals to bring their projects to fruition. This course may be useful for real estate developers who want to learn more about contemporary Japanese architecture and its implications for real estate development.

See salaries and explore the career path for Real Estate Developer

Construction Manager

Construction managers oversee the construction of buildings and other structures. They need to have a strong understanding of construction techniques and materials, as well as the ability to manage a team of workers. This course may be useful for construction managers who want to learn more about contemporary Japanese architecture and its implications for construction.

See salaries and explore the career path for Construction Manager

Architectural Engineer

Architectural engineers design and supervise the construction of buildings and other structures. They need to have a strong understanding of structural engineering principles, as well as the ability to work with architects and other professionals to ensure that buildings are safe and functional. This course may be useful for architectural engineers who want to learn more about contemporary Japanese architecture and its implications for structural engineering.

See salaries and explore the career path for Architectural Engineer

Architectural Photographer

Architectural photographers take photographs of buildings and other structures. They need to have a strong understanding of photography principles, as well as the ability to work with architects and other professionals to create photographs that capture the essence of a building. This course may be useful for architectural photographers who want to learn more about contemporary Japanese architecture and its implications for architectural photography.

See salaries and explore the career path for Architectural Photographer

Building Scientist

Building scientists research and develop new building materials and technologies. They need to have a strong understanding of building science principles, as well as the ability to work with other professionals to develop and test new building materials and technologies. This course may be useful for building scientists who want to learn more about contemporary Japanese architecture and its implications for building science.

See salaries and explore the career path for Building Scientist

Landscape Architect

Landscape architects design outdoor spaces, such as parks, gardens, and plazas. They need to have a strong understanding of landscape design principles, as well as the ability to work with plants and other natural materials. This course may be useful for landscape architects who want to learn more about contemporary Japanese architecture and its relationship to the landscape.

See salaries and explore the career path for Landscape Architect

Civil Engineer

Civil engineers design and build infrastructure projects, such as roads, bridges, and water systems. They need to have a strong understanding of civil engineering principles, as well as the ability to work with other professionals to plan and execute complex projects. This course may be useful for civil engineers who want to learn more about contemporary Japanese architecture and its implications for civil engineering.

See salaries and explore the career path for Civil Engineer

Interior designer

Interior designers create the interior spaces of buildings. They need to have a strong understanding of interior design principles, as well as the ability to work with clients to create spaces that meet their needs. This course may be useful for interior designers who want to learn more about contemporary Japanese architecture and its implications for interior design.

See salaries and explore the career path for Interior designer