I have pointed out six elements and a few principles which govern the erection of dwelling houses. It is more convenient to treat negatively than to attempt positively the discussion of domestic architecture. In order to protect or fulfill the established principles all hindrances from all sides should be overcome. What I cite in the following has reference only to the Japanese and does not refer at all to the foreigners. It is an appeal made only to the Japanese. I consider prejudice one of the impediments in the way of progress which we have to strive to remove. So long as we are adhering to it no advancement can be expected and improvement of our houses is entirely hopeless. There is in Japan a certain prejudice which amounts even to superstition among weak minded people. They choose a place for water closet according to a superstitious notion. They think that a water closet is the most impure or unholy place, and that the reckless choice of the place for it in a house causes misfortune to the family who occupies the house. They select a place for the well, the entrance etc. according to the same groundless superstition. And they say that thus the national character should be retained through all ages. “The roofs should always be covered with tiles otherwise be thatched or shingled. The shape of roofs should be “Chidori-hafu” if not “Mukuri-hafu” or “Kara-hafu”. A gate should be “Kabuki-mon” if not “Heijiu-mon”. The wall should be plastered if not finished with “Sasarako-shitami”. (thin, wide weatherboarding over which vertical narrow strips are nailed) The posts are invariably square in section, and the ceiling should necessarily be “Go-tenjō”. (panelled ceiling) or “Saobuchi-tenjō.” (same as “Sasarako-shitami” only horizontal, the strips being deeply chamfered) Such and such parts should be so and so; this is the national style of architecture handed down from our forefathers. If we change it at random, how can tell that we are Japanese. This is a house just suited to the people of this peculiar land; we cannot feel comfort or enjoy convenience but for this peculiar house”. There is nothing more absurd than these peculiar ideas. I cited in the introduction that the importance of freedom of design should always be kept in mind and here will not speak further any more than that the overthrowing of those prejudices which lie across the royal road to civilization is always necessary.
Plate 21
Plate 22
Plate 23. CHIDORI-HAFU