Hanging Lantern Maker
つりとうしょく
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
Craftsman who fabricates, repairs, and restores traditional Japanese hanging lanterns and lighting fixtures used in shrines, temples, ryotei restaurants, and tea rooms using woodworking, metalworking, lacquering, and other techniques.
Description
The hanging lantern maker is a traditional craft artisan who primarily fabricates and restores hanging lanterns installed in shrines, temples, tea rooms, ryokan inns, and similar places, by processing and assembling materials such as wood, metal, lacquer, and gold leaf. Employing a wide range of techniques including wood carving, casting, repoussé metalwork, lacquering, and gold leaf application, they apply intricate decorations based on design drawings. They also engage in restoration and preservation as cultural properties, taking on the role of passing historically valuable lighting fixtures to future generations.
Future Outlook
With the aging of traditional craft artisans, the successor shortage is becoming serious. While market expansion through collaboration with cultural property restoration and tourism demand is expected, demand may be limited due to the mechanization of lighting equipment and the shift to LEDs.
Personality Traits
Work Style
Made-to-Order Production / Self-employed Sole Proprietor / Subcontracting / Workshop Employment
Career Path
Apprentice Artisan → Artisan → Skilled Worker → Workshop Owner/Manager → Traditional Craftsman
Required Skills
Blueprint Reading Ability / Foil Stamping Skills / Lacquering Skills / Metalworking Skills / Woodworking Skills
Recommended Skills
CAD Design / Color Theory / Customer Negotiation / Design Skills
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Because detailed engraving, decoration, and dimensional precision are required. |
| Creativity & Ideation | Because they need to devise designs and patterns according to customer requests. |
| Physical Stamina & Endurance | Because physical strength is needed to carry heavy materials and endure long hours of work. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Numerical & Quantitative Analysis | Because there is little complex calculation or quantitative analysis. |
Related Qualifications
- Traditional Craftsman
Aliases
- Hanging Lantern Craftsman
- Lantern Craftsman
Related Jobs
- Andon Maker
- Lacquerware Craftsman
- Metal Decorator
- Paper Lantern Maker
- Woodworker