Process of Comprehension of Constructing Dry Stone Walls in Izena in Ryukyu

Abstract

This article tries to present an experience of acquiring comprehension and technique through out two times on site constructions of Dry Stone Walls in Izena island in Ryukyu, Okinawa, and making an instruction manual for its construction. The analysis bases on; 1) fundamental technique of constructing Dry Stone Wall, 2) management of stone arrangement, 3) total flow of the process of the work, and 4) variation of the characteristics of the work. Through the experiences, it is revealed that an acquaintance with the terms such as "Tsumi-ishi (building stones) " and "Guwa-ishi (fill or hearing)" brings about a clear figure of a model section of the Dry Stone Wall and accelerate understanding about its whole construction.