The history of the people of the Japanese archipelago has been molded by an idiosyncratic conservatism, admitting change but supplementing rather than supplanting existing institutions. Similarly, Japanese architecture has absorbed and gradually transformed foreign influences and forms—principally from China—though the Japanese tendency toward asymmetry and informal balance has always colored even the most rigorous imported design. This long tradition of transformation is seen here in some of Japan's most venerated structures and Zen gardens, shown in 130 drawings and photographs, most in color. The titles in this series of subcompact, highly portable guidebooks about architecture and landscape are nonetheless packed with illustrations and information. Entries for specific buildings and sites are accompanied by photographs, drawings, or plan views and, where appropriate, visitor's information. Each book also has an index, glossary, and bibliography.