Tobase Shrine and Temple Architecture Co., Ltd.

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  Wooden buildings to last 1,000 years: Carpentry techniques handed down over the generations

  Japanese temples and shrines demonstrate that traditional wooden structures can last for 1,000 years. This longevity reflects the benefits of traditional architectural techniques. The Society for the Preservation of the Skills Associated with Traditional Japanese Architecture was established in response to concerns that wooden buildings these days tend not to be built to these standards. It strives to preserve the tradition of original carpentry techniques and pass these on for the future. The Society is a UNESCO World Intangible Cultural Heritage Registered Organization.

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  Nurturing new talent

  In traditional architecture, students who can master a comprehensive range of skills from planning and　design to carpentry will be better craftsmen. We encourage them to read widely as well as gaining practical experience. Building skills like this is hard, but this is the kind of talent that we are aiming to develop.

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  Putting waste wood and scraps to good use

  In the past, scrap wood from our sites usually became firewood, but we want to expand the scope of our business and have been sounding out our employees for new ideas. Now, scrap wood is used for new initiatives like carpentry workshops for kids.

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  Development of forests to ensure our cultural assets endure into the future

  Depletion of material resources used to build temples, shrines, and traditional Japanese houses, is serious. Not just lumber, but also cypress bark and thatch for roofs. We serve on the board of directors of the Association to Develop Forests to Connect our Cultural Heritage to the Future, a cross-industry organization dedicated to preserving forests for centuries to come.