The tokonoma (or decorative alcove) is considered one of four elements found in the main hall of a samurai residence whose function is that of display. The term tokonoma has a dual meaning, since it refers both to the alcove itself, as well as a room containing a decoirative alcove. The decorative alcove has historically been called the oshiita, however it is proper to use either of the terms.

Early forms of this element can be found in the biography of the monk Kakunyo who lived between 1270-1351. This collection of painted scrolls is called the Pictures Longing for Extinction (Bokie). The scrolls illustrate the monk’s daily life within an architectural setting. The ten scrolls were originally painted in 1351 (figure 1 and 2). However, over time two scrolls were lost, and were replaced by repainted versions as pictured in figure 3 from 1482. In comparing figures 1 and 2 with figure 3, one can note the 130 years of evolution of the element. Since the function of the space is display, the earlier renditions of the tokonoma show hanging scrolls in the background, as well as a low freestanding table displaying various objects upon it . By the time of the 1482 picture the table has transformed into a raised platform which defines the space for alcove. Although, the form has somewhat been metamorphosed, the display funciton of the space remains constant. The items that were previously displayed on the foretable have become standardized. Typically an incense burner, a flower vase, and a candle holder are found in the tokonoma alcove.