An event showcasing the repair site of a cultural heritage building, organized by the Kyoto Prefectural Board of Education, was recently held in Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto City. Participants had the opportunity to view the interiors of these valuable cultural properties up close.
The Kyoto Prefectural Board of Education has been hosting these events since 2007 with the aim of cultivating a larger base of cultural heritage enthusiasts. On June 20, 2026, two sites were opened to the public: the Main Hall of Hodo-ji Temple (built in the early Edo period) and the Soshi-do Hall of Honryu-ji Temple (built in the mid-Edo period)—both of which are designated as National Important Cultural Properties.
At Hodo-ji Temple, the assembly of roof components was demonstrated. Participants climbed the surrounding scaffolding to closely observe the roof, where the tiles had been removed to expose the underlying framework. Staff from the Kyoto Prefecture Cultural Heritage Protection Division explained that the fundamental principle is to carry out repairs using the same construction methods and materials as the originals, noting that tiles and other elements are reused whenever possible. They also introduced the structure of the roof truss system and the architectural techniques involved, such as the use of traditional Japanese nails (*wakugi*).
Participants eagerly snapped photographs and asked numerous questions. Additional open-site events are scheduled for the autumn and winter, covering a total of four locations.
