Technologies Adopted for the Tatsumi-canal of 1632, Japan and the Historical Considerations

Abstract

The Tatsumi-canal is a remarkable monumental work in the history of Japanese water supply canals, and was constructed by Hyoshiro Itaya, the conductor in 1632. This paper is primarily concerned with the technological aspects of the Tatsumi-canal. The hydraulic technologies, channel excavation technologies, water conveyance pipe system and pipe manufacturing techniques adoped for the Tatsumi-canal have been reviewed and discussed. The Tatsumi-canal is relatively well preserved, and thus most of the parts are still operational in the original manner. It is, however, suggested that details of the technologies adopted for the Tatsumi-canal are not sufficiently known. Thus, the further study, especially for the parts extended in 1837 and 1855, respectively, is recommended.