This survey of East Asian architecture examines the symbiotic relationship between art and the built environment in the region.

From imperial temple complexes and medieval teahouses to contemporary cityscapes, the fascinating architecture of East Asia reveals multifaceted world views and craftsmanship with deep cultural roots. This publication offers a fresh perspective on the unique symbiosis of architecture and art in East Asia.

To what extent are architecture and art in East Asia inseparable? Should they be conceived as a single entity? Artifacts spanning several millennia and diverse genres—from bronze and ceramics to calligraphy and light installation—reveal how art and architecture have shaped one another in China, Japan, and Korea. This volume shows that architectural history does not follow a linear, self-contained trajectory; rather, it should be conceived as a range of interdisciplinary perspectives.