Inami wood carving is known as one of Japan’s largest wood carving production centers, developed in the Inami district of Nanto City, Toyama Prefecture, characterized by intricate carvings seen in temple and shrine architecture such as transoms and railings.
This traditional craft, with over 250 years of history, continues to be passed down by many artisans today and is applied not only to Buddhist statues and decorative carvings but also to contemporary interior design and art pieces.
This article provides comprehensive coverage from the origins and techniques of Inami wood carving to the craftsmen working at the forefront, as well as hands-on experience spots where you can actually feel its charm. Please take a glimpse into the world of Inami wood carving, where you can experience the warmth of wood and the power of handcraftsmanship.
Table of Contents
What is Inami Wood Carving? High Relief Art from the “City of Wood”
Inami wood carving is a traditional wooden sculpture born in the Inami region of Nanto City, Toyama Prefecture, and is highly regarded particularly in the field of transom carving. Its intricate techniques and artistry distinguish it from carvings of other regions.
Below, we will explain in detail the characteristics and history of Inami wood carving, as well as its differences from carvings in other regions.
Why It’s Called the Pinnacle of Transom Carving
The reason Inami wood carving is called the pinnacle of transom carving lies in its outstanding technique and artistry. Craftsmen use over 200 chisels and carving knives to create three-dimensional and dynamic works through “openwork deep carving” applied from both sides.
In particular, the design that considers the diagonal upward view when installed in a room and creates a sense of depth with multiple overlapping layers gives viewers deep emotion. Additionally, by skillfully utilizing shadows, it brings expressive shading to the carvings, creating a powerful presence as if they were alive.
The combination of these elements has earned Inami wood carving particularly high praise among transom carvings.
Background of How the Inami Region in Nanto City, Toyama Prefecture Became a Wood Carving Sacred Site
The background of the Inami region becoming known as a wood carving sacred site is largely related to the existence of Zuisen-ji Temple. Zuisen-ji Temple was built in the 14th century and suffered repeated fires. During the mid-Edo period, when it was rebuilt, carving masters were invited from Higashi Hongan-ji Temple in Kyoto, and local shrine carpenters learned their techniques, which is considered the beginning of Inami wood carving.
Subsequently, techniques were refined through temple decoration, and carving culture took root throughout the region. Additionally, Toyama Prefecture has a high rate of home ownership and a culture of particular attention to house decoration, which also supported the development of Inami wood carving. This fusion of history and culture led to Inami becoming known as a wood carving sacred site.
Differences Between “Inami Wood Carving,” “Nikko Carving,” and “Kyoto Buddhist Altar Carving”
The differences between Inami wood carving and carvings from other regions lie in techniques, uses, and expressive styles. For example, Nikko carving is characterized by “scratching carving” using a unique triangular knife called “Hikkaki-gatana,” which involves pulling toward oneself while carving.
Plants are the main motifs, and techniques such as line carving and raised carving are employed. On the other hand, Kyoto Buddhist altar carving is sculpture intended for decorating Buddhist altars and implements, characterized by extensive use of gold leaf and lacquer, and gorgeous, delicate expression.
In contrast, Inami wood carving is characterized by three-dimensional and dynamic expression through openwork deep carving, and is widely used for architectural decoration such as transoms and screens. Additionally, Inami wood carving developed from temple decoration and differs from other regions in that carving culture has taken root throughout the entire region.
History of Inami Wood Carving from Zuisen-ji Temple Reconstruction to Modern Times
Inami wood carving is a traditional wooden sculpture that developed in the Inami region of Nanto City, Toyama Prefecture, and is highly regarded particularly in the field of transom carving.
Its history began with the reconstruction of Zuisen-ji Temple in the mid-Edo period, went through the transom boom after the Meiji era, and has been passed down by many craftsmen to the present day. Below, we will explain in detail the historical background and development of Inami wood carving.
Early Edo Period: How Craftsmen from Kyoto Hongan-ji Temple Remained in Inami
The roots of Inami wood carving trace back to the great fire at Zuisen-ji Temple that occurred in the mid-Edo period. When the main hall was destroyed by fire in Horeki 12 (1762), Zuisen-ji Temple invited the excellent carver Maekawa Sanshiro from Kyoto Hongan-ji Temple for its reconstruction.
At this time, Bansho-ya Kudai Shichizaemon, a local carpenter, apprenticed under Maekawa and learned carving techniques. This technique took root in Inami and became the catalyst for its development as a unique wood carving culture. Furthermore, Shichizaemon created a transom work called “Lion Cub Dropping” in Kansei 4 (1792) and dedicated it to the imperial messenger gate of Zuisen-ji Temple, where it remains today as a representative work of Inami wood carving.
The carving techniques learned during this period held deep meaning connected not only to decoration but also to architecture and faith, and can be said to be an important historical event that laid the foundation for the carving culture that has continued in Inami for several hundred years.
After Meiji: Transom Boom and Craftsmen’s Dispatch Nationwide
During the Meiji era, Japanese-style architecture spread throughout Japan, and transoms became popular as aesthetic decoration for homes. Inami carvers began to travel to various parts of the country in response to this expanding demand, and due to their high carving skills, they became valued wherever they went.
The emergence of Oshima Goun was particularly significant. He explored the possibilities of transom carving as fine art and craft, going beyond traditional religious decorative carving, and created many intricate and highly artistic works. In 1914, his transom work was exhibited at the San Francisco World’s Fair and won the Honorary Gold Medal, spreading the fame of Inami wood carving overseas as well.
In this way, after the Meiji era, craftsmen as technicians came to be socially recognized not merely as workers but as “creative artists,” and Inami wood carving became a craft that made its name known throughout the country.
Heisei to Reiwa: Movement Toward UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage Registration
Entering the Heisei era, Inami wood carving began to show new developments adapted to the times while maintaining tradition. First, in 2016, Nanto City’s “Johana Hikiyama Festival” was registered as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage, and since the wood carvings decorating the festival floats are also by Inami craftsmen, the cultural value of Inami wood carving came to be recognized worldwide.
Additionally, in 2018, the entire Inami region was designated as a Japan Heritage site as “Wood Carving Art Museum Inami – Born from a Single Chisel of Shrine Carpenters,” strengthening activities to protect and pass down cultural assets as a community effort. In modern times, both the inheritance and dissemination of techniques are progressing together through young craftsman training, workshops, and overseas expansion.
These movements are not mere traditional preservation but are evolving Inami wood carving as a “living craft” that fuses with contemporary life and values, also connecting to movements aimed at future UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage registration.
Three Major Technical Points Supporting Inami Wood Carving Masters
Inami wood carving is a traditional wooden sculpture that developed in the Inami region of Nanto City, Toyama Prefecture, and its intricate techniques and artistry are highly regarded both domestically and internationally. Particularly in the field of transom carving, three-dimensional and dynamic expression is characteristic, and craftsmen use over 200 chisels and carving knives to create their works. Below, we will explain in detail the three major techniques supporting Inami wood carving.
Using Over 70 Types of Carving Tools Including Triangular Knives, Flat Chisels, and Small Knives
Supporting the intricate expression of Inami wood carving is the existence of the diverse carving tools that craftsmen use. Common types of carving tools include flat chisels, round chisels, triangular knives, and cutting knives, each with different shapes and uses.
For example, flat chisels are used when carving wide surfaces flat, and round chisels are suitable for carving curved surfaces and uneven parts. Triangular knives are used for carving sharp lines and grooves, and cutting knives are used for finishing fine details and carving contours.
In Inami wood carving, in addition to these basic carving tools, special blades uniquely modified by craftsmen are also used, enabling detailed expression down to the finest parts of works. Additionally, the selection and use of carving tools vary depending on the type of wood being carved and the design of the work, making the craftsman’s experience and technique important elements.
By using various carving tools in this way, the advanced techniques and beauty of Inami wood carving are realized.
“Single-Stroke Sketching” That Utilizes Wood Grain and Multi-Layer Relief Techniques
One of the charms of Inami wood carving is the “single-stroke sketching” technique that utilizes the natural wood grain of the material. In this technique, craftsmen examine the wood grain and texture of the material while aiming to draw maximum expression with minimal carving.
By understanding the characteristics of wood and carving without damaging its beauty, works gain natural texture and warmth. Additionally, multi-layer relief techniques are also used in Inami wood carving. This is a technique that gives depth and three-dimensionality to works by carving multiple overlapping layers.
For example, by carving separate foreground, middle ground, and background layers, visual depth and movement are expressed. Through these techniques, Inami wood carving has value not merely as decorative items but as art works that captivate viewers’ hearts. By fusing craftsmen’s skilled techniques and sensibilities, Inami wood carving that breathes life into the material of wood is created.
Beauty of “Three-Dimensional Painting” Finished with Lacquer, Coloring, and Gold Leaf
In Inami wood carving, advanced specialized techniques are required even in the finishing process performed after intricate carving is completed. First, lacquer coating. Raw lacquer is repeatedly rubbed into wood bases such as zelkova and camphor, and hard film is formed with wiping lacquer and top coating to enhance gloss and durability. In fact, Buddhist altar shops that deliver cloud decorations for household shrines in “lacquer coating + gold leaf finish” clearly state wood base protection and gloss enhancement effects in their product descriptions.
Next, coloring. Industrial area websites introducing the production process of Inami wood carving state that “coloring and decoration are applied after finish carving,” explaining that cases of coloring flowers, birds, and auspicious beasts with pigments, gold paint, and mineral pigments are common. Coloring makes the shadows of carvings stand out and increases realism and decorativeness.
Furthermore, gold leaf application. In examples of custom production of temple transoms and festival float carvings, it is reported that “gold leaf coloring was applied to gorgeous patterns, resulting in an even more luxurious finish,” confirming that this is a traditional technique for creating magnificence and dignity in Buddhist sculpture and festival carvings.
These finishing techniques, combined with the three-dimensionality created by deep carving, produce rich colors and textures like paintings despite being wood carvings. Inami craftsmen handle not only carving knives but also lacquer brushes and gold leaf application tools with ease, completing the artistry also called “three-dimensional painting.”
Variety of Inami Wood Carving Subjects and How to Interpret Designs
Inami wood carving is a traditional wooden sculpture that developed in the Inami region of Nanto City, Toyama Prefecture, characterized by its intricate techniques and diverse motifs. Particularly, carvings with lucky charms and nature as subjects are frequently seen, each containing deep meanings. Below, we will explain in detail the representative motifs in Inami wood carving and their meanings.
Lions, Dragons, and Phoenix – Spiritual Beast Motifs Imbued with Good Fortune
In Inami wood carving, spiritual beasts such as lions, dragons, and phoenix are frequently taken up as subjects. These spiritual beasts have long been symbols of warding off evil and prosperity, and have been widely used in temple and shrine architecture and festival decorations. For example, the dragon carved on the mountain gate of Zuisen-ji Temple has a legend that it drew well water and extinguished fires during disasters, and is revered as a guardian deity of the region. Additionally, the carving called “Lion Cub Dropping” depicts a parent lion pushing its cub into a valley and watching over the cub that climbs back up, symbolizing child-rearing and the power to overcome trials. The phoenix, as a symbol of peace and prosperity, is used in temple decorations and transom carvings, and its elegant appearance captivates people’s hearts. These spiritual beast motifs are symbols of the technical skill and artistry of Inami wood carving, giving viewers deep emotion.
Meaning of “Fortune and Virtue Invitation” Dwelling in Seven Lucky Gods and Chinese Lion Peonies
Walking through the town of Inami, you can see carvings of the Seven Lucky Gods and Chinese lion peonies everywhere. The Seven Lucky Gods are seven deities – Ebisu, Daikokuten, Bishamonten, Benzaiten, Fukurokuju, Jurojin, and Hotei – who are said to bring good fortune such as business prosperity, family safety, and longevity.
In Inami, carvings of these deities are displayed throughout the town, connected to the faith of local people. Additionally, Chinese lion peonies are patterns combining fierce lions with gorgeous peonies, symbolizing courage, nobility, and prosperity.
This motif is widely used in decorations such as transoms and screens, with meanings wishing for family prosperity and family health. It is a symbol of Inami wood carving tradition and regional culture, leaving deep impressions on visitors.
Openwork Carving Depicting Flowers, Birds, Wind, and Moon and the Subtle Beauty of Light and Shadow
One of the characteristics of Inami wood carving is openwork carving with flowers, birds, wind, and moon as subjects. In this technique, natural motifs such as pine, bamboo, plum, cherry blossoms, cranes, and sparrows are intricately carved, and beautiful shadows are created by utilizing the contrast of light and shadow.
For example, pine symbolizes longevity, bamboo represents growth, and plum signifies nobility, and “pine, bamboo, and plum” combining these is a standard motif with auspicious meaning. Additionally, cranes are beloved as symbols of longevity, and sparrows as symbols of prosperity. The delicate shadows created by openwork carving change expression depending on viewing angle and how light hits them, giving viewers deep emotion.
Such techniques symbolize the advanced technical skill and artistry of Inami wood carving, and are important elements that convey traditional Japanese beauty to modern times.
Ways to Enjoy Inami Wood Carving in Daily Life
Inami wood carving is a traditional wooden sculpture that developed in the Inami region of Nanto City, Toyama Prefecture, characterized by its intricate techniques and diverse motifs. In recent years, while utilizing traditional techniques, new works adapted to contemporary lifestyles have been created.
Below, we introduce specific methods for incorporating Inami wood carving into daily life.
Mini Transoms & Panels That Enhance Modern Interiors
Transoms, which are representative works of Inami wood carving, have recently come to be incorporated into contemporary interiors as well. Particularly, mini-sized transoms and panels can be used as wall hangings or stands, harmonizing not only with Japanese-style rooms but also with Western-style rooms and modern spaces.
These works are carved using traditional techniques, and the warmth of wood and delicate carving add depth to spaces. Additionally, custom-made production is possible, and designs can be requested to match the room’s atmosphere and preferences. For example, by incorporating motifs such as flowers, birds, wind, moon, or auspicious patterns, seasonal feeling and good fortune can be created.
Mini transoms and panels of Inami wood carving also have high value as art, allowing the beauty of traditional crafts to be incorporated into everyday spaces.
Decorative Ornaments and Shrine Carvings That Shine in Seasonal Settings
Decorative ornaments and shrine carvings utilizing Inami wood carving techniques are items that particularly shine during seasonal settings and events. For example, by displaying decorative ornaments incorporating zodiac signs or lucky charm motifs for events such as New Year or seasonal festivals, it is possible to create presentations that invite good fortune along with seasonal feeling.
Additionally, by incorporating shrine carvings with intricate carving as shrine decorations, sacred spaces are further enhanced. These works are carefully carved one by one by craftsmen’s hands, and the texture of wood and beauty of carving stand out.
Also, custom-made production is possible, and designs can be requested to match family faith and preferences. Decorative ornaments and shrine carvings of Inami wood carving create rich living by incorporating tradition and beauty into daily life.
Also Popular as Custom Orders for Corporate Logos and Commemorative Items
Inami wood carving techniques are also utilized for corporate logos and commemorative items. For example, by creating corporate logos in wood carving and using them as signs or nameplates, corporate brand image can be enhanced.
Additionally, by creating original wood carving commemorative items for special occasions such as founding anniversaries or milestone celebrations, gratitude to stakeholders and customers can be given form. These works are carefully carved one by one by craftsmen’s hands, creating luxury along with the warmth of wood.
Furthermore, through custom-made production, designs incorporating corporate philosophy and messages can be realized. Custom-made works of Inami wood carving are masterpieces that not only express corporate identity but are also appreciated as gifts.
Summary
Inami wood carving is one of Japan’s premier wood carving cultures nurtured in the Inami region of Nanto City, Toyama Prefecture, and its techniques and aesthetic sense have been passed down for over 250 years. The historical background beginning with Zuisen-ji Temple reconstruction, the development of transom carving, and the fusion of technological innovation and artistry continuing to modern times have elevated Inami wood carving to a unique existence.
From the skillful use of carving tools, delicate techniques represented by “single-stroke sketching,” to finishing with lacquer and gold leaf, craftsmen’s outstanding techniques shine in all processes. Additionally, motifs such as spiritual beasts and auspicious patterns contain ancient prayers and wishes, existing not only as art but also as something that adds color and meaning to life.
In modern times, it has come to be incorporated into daily life in various forms such as mini transoms, decorative ornaments, and custom-made works for companies, also playing a role as a bridge between tradition and contemporary life. Inami wood carving, as a “living craft” that connects past, present, and future, will continue to enrich people’s hearts.
