Abstract
During the early Meiji Period, Kigo Kiyoyoshi was a central figure in the architectural world, noted for his comprehensive expertise on traditional Japanese architecture ; he was active not only in the field of professional design but also in the academic community and in government-supported historical preservation projects. Kigo was unique in having come from a background in the Master Carpenter tradition to achieve a leading role in the architectural mainstream as a specialist in traditional architecture. The study of Kigo's works and teachings can provide meaningful information on the transition from traditional to modern Japanese architecture. This paper deals with Kigo's investigations of thirty-eight traditional temples and shrines, an intensive effort carried out between the 22nd and 24th year of the Meiji Period (1889-91). The focus here is on the purpose, process, and results of these investigations.
