Nanzen-ji Aqueduct

　Sakuo Tanabe wrote his graduation thesis on ‘The Lake Biwa Canal Construction Plan’; his talent was recognised, and at the age of just 23 he was appointed Chief Engineer for the Kyoto Prefecture Canal Works by the Governor of Kyoto Prefecture, Kunimichi Kitagaki.

　Construction of the Lake Biwa Canal began in 1888, but the project faced the problem that the canal had to cross the grounds of the scenic Nanzen-ji Temple. To ensure that the temple grounds’ landscape was not spoiled, Tanabe incorporated the design of an ancient Roman aqueduct into his plans.

　Although there was reportedly some opposition at the time, today it remains a popular spot attracting a constant stream of visitors who come to enjoy its unique blend of Japanese and Western architectural styles.