Sengu The Reconstruction of the Ise Shrine: Holy Japan photographed by Miyazawa Masaaki

A unique and comprehensive collection of photographs that capture all the ceremonies that mark the ritual restoration of the Ise Grand Shrine, one of the most important and profound symbols of Japanese society.

Architecture and religion come together in this never-before-published record of Japanese culture. The book presents the 63rd restoration of the Shrine, beautifully captured by photographs of all the ritual ceremonies, along with descriptive texts. The restoration of the sanctuary takes place every 20 years and lasts over a period of 8 years since 690 A.D. An extraordinary variety of large format photographs depict profound spirituality and festive local participation. Including drawings of the main buildings and maps of the area, this is a book not only for architects, but also for those with a strong interest in Japanese religion and culture.

J.K. Mauro Pierconti is a historian of architecture at Waseda University in Tokyo. His more recent research focuses on traditional Japanese architecture and the work of important architects. Masaaki Miyazawa is a photographer and winner of the International Center of Photography Award in 1985.