Kigumi (Woodworking Joints)
Japanese traditional techniques have always necessitated the wisdom of incorporating natural materials such as wood, grass, and earth into architectural spaces. Furthermore, structures are needed to withstand earthquakes and typhoons. These materials and techniques have realized historic constructions like the Horyuji Temple, creating Japan's rich architectural spaces.
These traditional Japanese architectural techniques, known as ‘Traditional skills,
Techniques and knowledge’ were registered as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2020. Among the 17 constituent cultural heritages registered by UNESCO, 'Carpentry for Buildings' stands out as a representative technique, with 'wood joinery' being highlighted.
Wood joinery, a traditional Japanese method, is said to have been used since the Asuka period (592–710). The Horyuji Temple, a representative structure from the Asuka period, was founded in 607, and after a fire in 670, its Kondo (Main Hall) and Five-Story Pagoda were rebuilt, making them the world's oldest wooden structures. Along with Himeji Castle, it was registered as Japan's first UNESCO World Heritage site in 1993.
Wood joinery is a highly precise technique that assembles buildings almost entirely without metal hardware like nails, intricately carving and fitting the ends of wood pieces together to secure them firmly. As these joints are not fastened with nails or bolts, they allow for some 'play' (gaps), which effectively absorb seismic movements, allowing the structure to withstand earthquakes.
(Note) UNESCO registered ‘Traditional skills, techniques and knowledge for the conservation and transmission of wooden architecture in Japan’ as Intangible Cultural Heritage.
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Kigumi (Wood Joinery)
Most of the wood joinery can be physically touched, assembled, and disassembled at the " Kigumi Museum." Handling the joinery firsthand will surprise you with its complexity and precision. It is the heart of wooden structures like Horyuji Temple, which have stood for over a thousand years in earthquake-prone Japan without collapsing, using minimal nails.
Sakan (Plastering)
There are two types of traditional plastering techniques. One is the ancient Kyoto-style walls finished with earth, known as "Kyokabe," and the other is walls finished with plaster, known as "Shikkui walls." These two types are collectively referred to as "Japanese walls." At the " Kigumi Museum," you can view the internal structure of Shikkui walls.
Urushi nuri (Lacquer)
Lacquer, with its unique luster, is indispensable for adorning our nation’s buildings along with colored metal fittings. At the " Kigumi Museum," you can view the lacquer that was intended for use in the neighboring Ana Hachimangu.
Saishoku (Building Coloring)
The patterns and paintings applied to pillars, beams, and walls are referred to as building coloring. The elaborate coloring of Nikko Toshogu is famous. The coloring applied inside buildings, like that of the Phoenix Hall of Byodoin Temple founded in 1052, can last nearly a thousand years.
Wakugi (Japanese Nails)
Wakugi (Japanese nails) have developed uniquely in Japan. Unlike the commonly mass-produced Western nails, each Japanese nail is made by craftsmen. Made from high-purity iron, Japanese nails are resistant to rust and corrosion.
Onigawara (demon tiles)
Onigawara are a generic term for decorative tiles placed at the ends of roofs, intended for warding off evil and decoration. Tile craftsmen who make Onigawara are called Oni-shi (Artisans for making Onigawara). At the "Kigumi Museum," you can lift an Onigawara to feel its weight.
Kigumi Museum Tour Information
Meeting point
Tokyo Metro Tozai Line, Waseda (T04) Station, Exit 2, lower stairs
Tour Duration
Approximately 3 hours, including Kagurazaka Walk. The meeting and dispersal times will be decided after consulting with the customer.
Accessibility
Everyone is welcome to participate. Of course, children who can walk are also welcome to join, accompanied by a parent. Using a stroller is no problem. Wheelchair users can participate as well. However, please note that there are some places, such as stairs, that may not be accessible for strollers or wheelchair users.
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Would you like to actually touch, assemble, and disassemble traditional Japanese architectural techniques such as 'Kigumi'? Normally, 'Kigumi' is located in high places of buildings and is out of reach. Holding 'Kigumi' in your hands, you will be amazed by its complex structure and precision. It is the core of wooden buildings like Horyuji Temple, which have stood for over a thousand years in earthquake-prone Japan without collapsing, using minimal nails.
By seeing, touching, and experiencing these traditional architectural techniques cultivated in earthquake-prone Japan for over a thousand years, you will come to know the greatness of our ancestors' wisdom and gain a new perspective. This new perspective is sure to become a lifelong memory for you.