Japan’s architecture were first based on Chinese styles during the Nara and Heian periods, but later on, the Japanese developed their own distinct style.

During the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries, when feudal lords held a lot of power in Japan, they built fortified castles to protect themselves. These fortress-palaces had barred windows, gates, trapdoors, and other similar parts built in them. The Japanese also included designated places within the castle as vantage points for firing arms when in battle. Generally, castles were built on higher elevation and protection that surrounded the castles included stone walls and huge moats. After entering the castle, there were maze-like corridors to protect the fortresses even more from enemies.

Since Japan often experienced earthquakes, European stone castles were not sensible. Wood was a common material used to construct buildings. Post-and-beam structures were built on stone sheathed earthen bases which endured the earth tremors. Using wood did have its downfalls though; Japan also experienced a lot of fires. By the end of the feudal period, there around 144 castles built, but because of fires and bombings, only twelve of the original castles still exist. As adjustments to weather, Japan’s hot and humid summers were withstood with sliding doors, windows and interior wall panels. These adaptations made the buildings cooler and more comfortable.