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Hozo Tsugi

ほぞ継ぎ

The classic mortise and tenon joint, essential for frame construction and corner assemblies.

3Dモデル: Otoshi-ari-hozo-shikuchi by thejoinery on Sketchfab

組み立ての要点

Hozo Tsugi represents the cornerstone of Japanese frame joinery. The tenon (hozo) fits precisely into the mortise (ana), creating a strong mechanical connection. Mastery of this joint teaches layout accuracy, chisel control, and the importance of a tight fit. Nearly every frame structure—from doorways to temple columns—relies on some form of hozo work.

歴史的背景

Hozo Tsugi is the most widely used joint in Japanese carpentry. Variations range from simple stub tenons in furniture to through-tenons in shrine framing. The proportional relationship between tenon length, width, and mortise depth has been refined over centuries. Related forms include Kama Hozo (sickle tenon), San Mai Hozo (three-piece mitred dovetail), and Tsuki Uchi Wa (blind mortise).

組み立て手順

  1. Lay out the mortise position on the receiving member using a marking gauge and square.
  2. Chisel the mortise, working from both faces if it passes through; keep walls square.
  3. Mark and cut the tenon on the mating piece to match mortise dimensions.
  4. Saw the tenon cheeks and shoulders; pare to the line with chisels for a snug fit.
  5. Test-fit dry; the joint should require light tapping and seat fully without gaps.

日本で見られる場所

  • Ise Grand Shrine — Mie — post-and-beam framing throughout
  • Traditional door and window frames — Machiya townhouses — Kyoto and Kanazawa

バリエーション

Through-tenons expose end grain on the back face; blind tenons (Tsuki Uchi Wa) hide the connection. Wedged tenons lock permanently; drawbored tenons pull joints tight. Kama Hozo and San Mai Hozo extend the basic concept to corners and three-way intersections.

用途

  • Door frames
  • Window frames
  • Table legs
  • Cabinet construction

必要な道具

  • Dozuki saw
  • Nomi chisels
  • Marking knife
  • Square

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