Most people do not need know how to build a roof hip. But the ability to design and layout joinery with complex angularity—in anything—is what we walked away with.

This essay is by Noboru Tsuchida, a legendary tool dealer in Tokyo who works only with Japanese professionals.

Studying Japanese Carpentry with Somakosha in Japan

Building a miniature low table with three-way mitered corners at Mount Fuji Wood Culture Society

I feel lucky to return to Mount Fuji Wood Culture Society, to study with Tak Yoshino. This trip—my third in a year—also coincides with the arrival of sakura blossoms.

Just a few small projects. And a 2-micron shaving at the Kezurokai planing contest by Andrew Ren.

Finishing the frame.

Teachers, priests, monks, and students gathered at the temple on a Sunday afternoon, in the back of a valley.

A flurry of milling, layout, and tool preparation before the class