Abstract
The propose of this study is to validate the seismic safety of the existing full-scale traditional timber temple based on large amplitude horizontal loading test and ambient vibration test. Additionally, evaluation of seismic force-resisting elements and validation of current method for checking the seismic safety of the traditional timber structures are conducted. Ambient vibration tests are conducted at each target story drift in order to evaluate the dynamic characteristics (e.g., natural period, equivalent viscous damping ratio) of both temples Yusho-Ji (Hazu-Cho, Aichi) and Shinpuku-Ji (Arai-Cho, Shizuoka). Seismic safeties of the temples are evaluated by three methods, Allowable stress concept, Energy balance concept, and Calculation of response and limit strength, stipulated in current building code. Finally, non-linear time history analyses are conducted to evaluate the validity of these three methods and figure out the issues
