Many pieces of furniture showcased in our machiya holiday homes are handcrafted by craftsmen from the Hida Takayama region, master carpenters known collectively as Hida no Takumi. The Hida Takayama area boasts a rich woodworking tradition that spans over 1,300 years. Historically, these skilled craftsmen contributed to the construction of iconic landmarks such as Tōdaiji Temple and Kasuga Taisha Shrine (both located in Nara Prefecture).
Today, the legacy of Hida no Takumi lives on through woodworking techniques carefully passed down through generations. Their craftsmanship can be found in the furniture of our machiya homes, embodying both tradition and artistry.
Traditional Woodworking Techniques
Our machiya homes feature furniture crafted using traditional Hida Takayama woodworking techniques, designed and built by the craftsmen at Nissin Mokko.
For example, you can find a large, round dining table at both 'Asatoyuu Asana' Machiya house and 'Asatoyuu Yuuna' Machiya house, made from locally sourced Japanese oak (nara-zai). This wood is prized for its durability and smooth texture, and as it ages, it deepens in color and character, creating a warm and natural ambiance. Each piece embodies the culture and craftsmanship of Takayama, bringing a sense of calm and connection to the space.
The wood undergoes a meticulous drying process lasting over a year to ensure stability and longevity. Once ready, it is shaped using two main methods: carefully cut with a bandsaw or gently bent through a steaming and molding process that preserves its natural strength. Joints are made using the kaku-hozo method, a traditional joinery technique that connects parts without the use of nails or screws. This approach not only guarantees structural integrity but also accentuates the beauty of clean, simple design.
Each piece reflects the culture and craftsmanship of Hida Takayama, creating an inviting atmosphere in our machiya homes.
The Vision Behind the Design
The local craftsmen behind our original furniture is Nissin Mokko, a company dedicated to preserving the craftsmanship of Hida no Takumi. In creating each piece, they focused on one idea: preserving “what must not change.” This means crafting furniture that maintains consistently high quality and is made by the hands of their craftsmen.
Their goal is not only to continue traditional techniques, but also to carry forward the mindset and values behind them. As they express it, “What must not change is the commitment to craftsmanship passed down through generations.” This philosophy is evident in the details, such as the precise joinery to natural finishes. The result is furniture that fits seamlessly into a our Takayama-style machiya holiday homes while remaining rooted in local tradition. We hope our guests are able to experience their craftsmanship and feel the spirit of Takayama throughout their stay.