Architecture and Authority in Japan (Nissan Institute/Routledge Japanese Studies)

I very much like this book. The range of examples are well selected and thought provoking. I have lived in Japan for 14 years and I have come to view Japanese architecture in a different way after reading. The author shows a real command of the subject and writes in a way that is enjoyable to read.In addition to providing much more in-depth information of many buildings in Japan of historical importance, I find it a good travel guide to these buildings and simply enjoyable to read. I have not read cover to cover but rather read a particular section on a building depending on what is of interest at the time.As an example, one of the subject buildings (Shofuku-ji) is a temple near my house and is the only official kokuho ("National Treasure") structure in the Tokyo area. Although a beautiful building, I was not able to appreciate why it was so recognized until I read the chapter in the book about it. The author was able to set the historical context and point out what makes it unique.My only issues with this edition are: 1) The binding - it is of medium quality paperback construction, and 2) the quality of the photographs inside are not as good as I would expect. Given its relatively higher price, I would have expected hardcover and better quality photographs.These reservations aside, I recommend this book.