Prince Toshihito (1579-1629) and his son dreamed up this holiday resort as a string of pavilions spread along the banks of the Katsura River, "each one set upon a reflection of the moon". Here you will discover the ultimate expression of that most fascinating aspect of Japanese architecture: a striving for purity and bareness. The harmony and beauty of Katsura Imperial Villa arises from its austere layout, which was to inspire Bauhaus architects as well as Le Corbusier.