"Developed around the theme of the buildings housing the British diplomatic missions in China, Japan and Korea since the middle of the last century, the author vividly tells the story of the life and times of those who were responsible for their establishment, rebuilding or renovation - depending on the vicissitudes of history and the climate - from the first 'temple' home in Tokyo, the near-destruction of the Beijing buildings during the Boxer uprising and the great earthquake in Tokyo in 1923, to the impact of war and the various changes following calls for 'modernization'." "In a wider context, this book also illuminates the key events and people shaping the British view of East Asia, as well as offering valuable and hitherto unpublished, biographical details of many of the key 'dramatis personae', including Sir Harry Parkes, Sir Ernest Satow and Sir Charles Eliot."--Jacket.