Carpenters' Day

What Is Carpenters' Day?

November 22nd is "Carpenters' Day" in Japan. It was established in 1999 by the Japan Association of Building Carpenters (Nihon Kenchiku Daiku Ginoshi Kai) and certified by the Japan Anniversary Association in 2000. Its aims include developing the building carpentry industry and promoting wooden houses.

A Date Packed with Several Meanings

The date combines several meanings connected with carpentry: the national "Month for Respecting Skills," a link to Prince Shotoku, who is regarded as the god of carpenters, and even the idea of seeing the shapes of the numbers as the framework of a house, reflecting a true craftsman's attention to detail.

• Month for Respecting Skills: November is Japan's national "Month for Respecting Skills"
• The character 士: combining 十 and 一 (eleven) forms 士, the character used in "kenchikushi" (architect)
• Prince Shotoku: the 22nd is linked to the death anniversary of Prince Shotoku, the "god of carpenters" (22nd day of the 2nd lunar month)
• A house frame: "11" represents two pillars, and each "二" in "二二" represents the sill and the beams, forming a wooden post-and-beam structure
• Established and certified: established in 1999 and certified by the Japan Anniversary Association in 2000

The People Who Hone Their Skills to Build Our Homes

The Japan Association of Building Carpenters, which established this day, aims to raise the social and economic status of skilled builders and contribute to the sound development of the housing construction industry by helping certified carpenters and other builders refine their skills and qualifications. November is also Japan's national "Month for Respecting Skills," a season that shines a light on the craftspeople who support manufacturing. The date itself, which overlays pillars, sill, and beams onto the shapes of numbers, conveys pride in building wooden homes.

Tips for Marking This Day

• Notice the wooden pillars and beams in your home or office
• Admire traditional wooden architecture at a nearby shrine or temple
• Think about small repairs and maintenance for your home
• Learn about the craftspeople who support manufacturing and construction

The Craft That Builds the Foundation of Our Lives

The homes where we live safely are supported by the solid skills of carpenters. November 22nd is a day to appreciate wooden architecture and the craftsmanship that brings it to life.