In Japan, the spirit of KIGUMI - the art of joining wood - is deeply rooted everywhere. However, just by looking at the superficial appearance of the finished work, it is difficult to truly understand the craftsmanship and aesthetics of kigumi demonstrated by these exceptional craftsmen. In this exhibition, we deconstruct all types of kigumi for this reason. Various wooden joints are displayed in their disassembled state - traditional wooden joints, unusual joints, and joints that surprise by revealing their secrets.

Daimochi-tsugi joinery

Hinoki cypress. 

Courtesy of Takenaka Carpentry Tools Museum, Kōbe.

Daimochi-tsugi is a joinery technique used to connect timber in which the edges of two pieces of wood are cut at an angle and joined together, such as beams and joists. It is primarily used in log-beam constructions.

Kyoro-gumi joinery

Hinoki cypress. 

Courtesy of Takenaka Carpentry Tools Museum, Kōbe.

Kyoro-gumi is a wooden structure used for building a hut, in which girders are placed on top of the pillars, and beams are placed on top of the beams.