Plan shape of a Japanese pagoda?

Plan shape of a Japanese pagoda?

• A. Square
• B. Octagonal
• C. Circular
• D. Rectangular

Answer: (A)

Plan shape here refers to the building’s footprint and how its spaces and structure organize around the vertical axis. Traditional Japanese pagodas are built on a square base, four equal sides that frame a central axis and support the symmetrical stack of roofs. This square plan suits the post-and-beam timber system and the central stability elements (like a through-axis or pillar), allowing even distribution of weight as the tower rises and the eaves project on all sides. While other regions may produce octagonal or circular variants, the characteristic footprint of a classic Japanese pagoda is square.

Plan shape here refers to the building’s footprint and how its spaces and structure organize around the vertical axis. Traditional Japanese pagodas are built on a square base, four equal sides that frame a central axis and support the symmetrical stack of roofs. This square plan suits the post-and-beam timber system and the central stability elements (like a through-axis or pillar), allowing even distribution of weight as the tower rises and the eaves project on all sides. While other regions may produce octagonal or circular variants, the characteristic footprint of a classic Japanese pagoda is square.