Imbued with the power of Japan's forests

Masters of carpentry: skill and spirit

Since ancient times, alongside Japan's evolution from fiefdoms to kingdom to nation and the development of its economic and social structure, a variety of skilled craftsmen have contributed across society, from daily life to the most sacred realms. Within this society a constant attitude has prevailed; people have always been grateful for the blessings of nature and worshiped many gods.

The carpenter and soma (or woodcutter), masters of wood, request the forgiveness of the mountain gods as they gather materials. Just like people, trees have various personalities, and understanding their growing environment is essential. The Japanese carpenter does not merely seek quality material, they discern the right wood for the right purpose.

There is much to learn from the words of the great craftsman Tsunekazu Nishioka:

“Don’t Buy a Tree, Buy a Forest.”

To build a single temple use trees from a single mountain. Do not mix wood from the lands of Kiso, Yoshino, and Shikoku, and follow the natural will of the wood. Discern the subtle characteristics of the wood, some bends to the right and some to the left. Assemble the pieces accordingly, so they push against each other binding tightly.

“The Right Wood for the Right Purpose.”

Trees grown above the middle of the mountain are best used for structural materials such as pillars and beams.

Trees that grow quickly in the valley should be used for finishing materials such as long rails, latticework, and fittings. When used in the appropriate place, it will last a long time.

Trees are a renewable resource. However, this theory does not hold true unless the growth period of the tree and the life of a building align. If we use a thousand-year-old tree, we need to be prepared to take on more than a thousand years of responsibility for the building we create.

For this reason, the wood Japanese carpenters prefer is Hinoki cypress. The coniferous cypress and cedar trees, which can grow to be thousands of years old, grow quickly with straight trunks, and also possess a softness and durability that make them easy to work with. These trees are a rare resource nurtured by the unique ecosystem of Japan; an island nation located in the temperate zone.

It is often said that Japanese woodworking technique is characterized by traditional precision. However, behind this lies a distinctly Japanese respect and sense of awe towards nature, as well as the skills and spirit of the craftsmen, which have been nurtured by the environment. 

The high quality of Japanese carpentry tools is a further manifestation of this respect. In Japan, where iron ore resources are scarce, iron tools were difficult to come by and the introduction of the saw was later than in other countries. As a result, highly refined woodworking joinery, which does not rely on nails or bolts, was perfected using limited tools treated with the utmost care. Today, when we must rethink our relationship with the Earth, we can find wisdom that transcends history in these practices.

This exhibition will highlight two key elements in Japanese carpentry practice: the Dōmiya daiku, master carpenters who have supported the perpetuation of Japanese temple and shrine architecture, the quintessential Japanese architectural style of the teahouse, Sukiya daiku. Through clear explanations combined with intricate models, the little-known world of "Japanese wooden architecture" will unfold before you. We hope visitors will gain an understanding of the true essence of the masterful techniques and spirit of craftsmanship within this work, which might not be apparent at first glance.

Marcelo Nishiyama, Ph.D.

Associate Director and Chief Curator of Takenaka Carpentry Tools Museum