Japanese architecture is rich in symbolism and culture. Critical thinkers engage in three activities intended to expose them to the beauty of Japan. They read through the book, Praise of Shadows by Junichiro Tanizaki and watch the film Departures by Yojiro Takita. They analyze the content of the book and film as they practice using common Japanese terms for architectural elements. The lessons culminates in an art activity where they create rice paper screens.