Shrine-Temple Carpenter
しゃでんだいく
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
Specialized profession that builds, repairs, and maintains shrine and temple halls (main halls and worship halls) using traditional wooden construction methods.
Description
Shrine-temple carpenters select lumber, mark it, and hand-notch it based on design drawings for shrine and temple main halls and worship halls, then assemble the structure using wood joinery methods. They secure the structure without nails using mortise-and-tenon joints and other connections, and perform finishing work such as roofing (cypress bark or copper sheeting), carving decorations, hardware installation, and lacquer coating. In restoration and preservation repair projects, they apply knowledge of historical architectural styles to repair deteriorated areas and pass down techniques to future generations. On-site, they collaborate with master carpenters, laborers, and apprentices, while also handling safety and quality management.
Future Outlook
Artisan shortages are becoming severe due to aging, making efforts to pass down techniques urgent. Demand for shrine-temple architecture is stable, and gradual expansion is expected with increasing restoration and preservation projects.
Personality Traits
Dexterous with hands and good at detailed work / Meticulous / Patient / Respects traditional culture / Team player
Work Style
Contract Work / Freelance Independent Contractor / Long-term Projects / On-site Work / Seasonal Fluctuations
Career Path
Apprentice Carpenter → Laborer → Master Carpenter → Independent Contractor → Specialist (Shrine-Temple Architecture Technician) → Preservation and Restoration Consultant
Required Skills
Decorative Hardware Installation / Lumber Processing Techniques / Marking and Notching Techniques / Roofing / Traditional Wooden Joinery Techniques
Recommended Skills
Architectural History / Preservation and Restoration Techniques / Safety and Health Management / Site Management Skills
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Because the precision of detailed processing directly affects the quality of the finished product. |
| Learning Agility & Knowledge Acquisition | Learning motivation is important for acquiring and passing down traditional techniques. |
| Physical Stamina & Endurance | Due to handling heavy lumber, long hours of outdoor work, and high-altitude work. |
| Problem Solving | Because responses to uneven terrain on site and individual differences in materials are necessary. |
Related Qualifications
- First-Class Architectural Carpenter Skills Test
- Second-Class Architectural Carpenter Skills Test
- Third-Class Architectural Carpenter Skills Test
- Traditional Craftsman
Aliases
- Shrine Carpenter
- Shrine-Temple Carpenter
Related Jobs
- Architectural Carpenter
- Joinery Carpenter
- Wooden Building Carpenter