Nature in Japan

      Nature holds an interesting position in Japanese society and architecture, one which is striking to foreigners upon first entry to Japan. When hearing of traditional Japanese culture, one would think that Japan is filled with wooden or nature incorporating homes with as much greenery as possible. Due to the high population density, the opposite has come to fruition in cities, though very naturalist homes and complexes still exist on rural or religious areas. If you look another level deep within the industrialized cities, you will notice that there is greenery in every area possible. In effect, the Japanese hold both practicality of architecture and importance of nature on equal pedestals.
  One example would be a large company headquarters which I pass by every weekday. As per usual in the area, the structure is built of concrete and has no front or side areas of grass to be as compact, and practical, as possible. Though it may have only one tree planted in a greenery block by the front doors, it is a sakura tree and is always well maintained. Along with this tree are a few other small greenery spaces, concrete flower boxes, which contain many beautiful tulips and other brightly colored flowering plants. These types of flowers, while very beautiful, require a lot of weekly care. The company seems to value beautiful nature as highly as their headquarters complex; in other countries large buildings such as this might have greenery boxes, but will not be maintained anywhere near to this extent.

     In addition, many of the structures we think of as traditional Japanese architecture incorporate nature to a high degree. They are also frequently visited by Japanese citizens and others alike. The Japanese, though living a very practical, urban lifestyle, still desire this touch with nature which they do not have in their daily lives. Religious areas seem to indulge in an intimate relation with nature, are are conserved this way due to the Japanese ideals.