Abstract
Though in the ancient times the style of temple-compound layout was in perfect order, in the middle ages only the main Zen monasteries formed each building in line and orderly way. But little is known about architectural planning process. There is a difference in layout project between the ancient and the medieval times. For instance, the ancient cloister surrounded main halls and pagodas and made a sacred area. On the other hand, the Zen monasteries arranged each building (Zendoh, Kuin and so forth) to each lateral side of the cloister. And in the main hall precincts there stood trees like European monasteries. As Zen style shows a systematic character, so from a planning point of view, it is nothing to be wondered that there is a possibility of geometrical and organic layout. But to our regret, the famous five medieval monastereis were changed and rebuilt into small ones. Here, by using the medieval planning manuscript of the Kenchoh-ji, the head of the five monasteries, the author made it clear how the exterior space of the Kenchoh-ji was architecturally planned and costructed.
