Japanese wood joinery, known as "tategu" (建具) or "sashimono" (指物), is a traditional carpentry technique that creates intricate, durable joints without nails or glue. These joints rely on precise cuts and interlocking designs, showcasing Japan’s mastery of woodworking. Below is a compilation of some famous Japanese wood joints and their uses:
1. Basic Joints
Shiguchi (仕口) – General term for connecting two pieces of wood.
Tsugite (継手) – End-to-end joints for lengthening timber.
2. Classic Japanese Joinery Techniques
A. Corner Joints
Kanawa Tsugi (金輪継ぎ) – A metal-clasped joint for beams.
Ari Shiguchi (蟻仕口) – Dovetail-like joint used in post-and-beam construction.
Okkake Daisen Tsugi (追掛大栓継ぎ) – A sliding dovetail for heavy beams.
B. Lengthening Joints (Tsugite)
Shachi Tsugi (鯱継ぎ) – "Orca whale joint," an interlocking splice.
Koshikake Ari Tsugi (腰掛蟻継ぎ) – Dovetailed scarf joint for long beams.
Hakari Tsugi (秤継ぎ) – A hooked joint for tension resistance.
C. Decorative & Complex Joints
Kumiki (組木) – Puzzle-like interlocking joints, often used in furniture.
Hozo (ほぞ) – Mortise-and-tenon variations, such as "Jyū Hozo" (重ほぞ, double tenon).
Nuki (貫) – A through-tenon, often seen in sliding door frames.
D. Specialized Joints
Kama Tsugi (鎌継ぎ) – "Sickle joint," a curved interlock for bending stress.
Hane Tsugi (羽根継ぎ) – "Wing joint," used in temple construction.
Mitsu Kaku Wa Tsugi (三つ角輪継ぎ) – Triple-wedged joint for extreme strength.
3. Unique & Artistic Joinery
Yosegi Zaiku (寄木細工) – Geometric parquetry using varied wood colors.
Sukashi Kumiko (透かし組子) – Delicate latticework for shoji screens.
4. Modern Applications
Hybrid Joinery – Combining traditional techniques with CNC precision.
Sustainable Construction – Using joinery instead of nails for eco-friendly buildings.
