Nokimari

Definition

Nokimari refers to a set of architectural guidelines and standards used in the design and construction of Buddhist temples during the Asuka period in Japan. These guidelines helped ensure that the temples were built in a manner that reflected Buddhist principles and aesthetics, contributing to the establishment of a unique architectural style that integrated both Japanese and continental influences.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Nokimari established specific proportions and layouts for temple buildings, which included essential elements like the main hall, pagoda, and worship areas.
2. The influence of Chinese and Korean architectural styles is evident in nokimari, as it incorporated features such as tiled roofs and wooden beams.
3. Through nokimari, builders aimed to create harmonious spaces that aligned with Buddhist cosmology and principles of tranquility.
4. Nokimari also emphasized the importance of orientation in temple design, often aligning structures with natural landscapes or cardinal directions.
5. This architectural guideline played a vital role in the development of later Japanese temple architecture, laying the foundation for styles seen in subsequent periods.

Review Questions

• How did nokimari influence the architectural design of early Buddhist temples like Hōryū-ji?
  • Nokimari influenced the architectural design of early Buddhist temples like Hōryū-ji by providing specific guidelines for proportions, layouts, and essential structural elements. These standards ensured that the temple reflected Buddhist principles while integrating features from Chinese and Korean styles. Hōryū-ji, as a key example, showcases how nokimari facilitated the creation of harmonious spaces conducive to worship and meditation.
• Discuss the relationship between nokimari and Buddhist symbolism within the context of Asuka period architecture.
  • Nokimari is closely related to Buddhist symbolism as it incorporates elements that embody spiritual teachings and beliefs in its architectural guidelines. The design principles outlined in nokimari ensured that structures were not only aesthetically pleasing but also conveyed deeper religious meanings. This synergy allowed for a unique architectural language that resonated with the spiritual aspirations of the Asuka period's Buddhist practitioners.
• Evaluate how nokimari contributed to the evolution of Japanese temple architecture beyond the Asuka period.
  • Nokimari significantly contributed to the evolution of Japanese temple architecture by establishing foundational guidelines that influenced subsequent architectural styles. Its emphasis on proportion, harmony with nature, and incorporation of Buddhist symbolism laid the groundwork for later developments during periods such as Nara and Heian. The lasting impact of nokimari can be seen in how it shaped not only temple designs but also broader trends in Japanese architecture that persisted through history.

Related terms

Hōryū-ji: Hōryū-ji is one of the oldest wooden structures in the world, built in the early 7th century, and serves as a prime example of early Buddhist temple architecture influenced by nokimari.

Asuka Period: The Asuka Period (538-710 AD) is significant for the introduction of Buddhism to Japan and marked a time of cultural exchange with Korea and China, which greatly impacted architecture.

Buddhist Symbolism: Buddhist symbolism includes various motifs and elements used in temple architecture to convey spiritual teachings and beliefs, heavily influencing the design principles outlined in nokimari.