A sustainable acquisition of timber used for repair is important for the periodic repair of wooden cultural properties. This study aimed to discuss the sustainable acquisition of timber by examining the characteristics of timber utilization and the characteristics of the procurement structure of timber for preservation and repair. In this study Shokoji Temple, an important cultural property, was selected as the research subject. The methodology of the study consisted of an analysis of the data for the “constituent timber record” (kousei-mokuzai-chosho) and interview surveys with key personnel involved in repairs. The main results are as follows. The timber species used for structural repairs and additions to the structures accounting for a large proportion of timber use are Thujopsis dolabrata var. hondae, Cryptomeria japonica and Pinus densiflora. The tendency to use a lot of Thujopsis dolabrata var. hondae was confirmed as a regional characteristic of the Hokuriku region. Woods used for the repair of or additions to buildings not designated as cultural properties varied in both species and quality depending on budget constraints. In the procurement of timber for wooden cultural properties, we observed the existence of human networks and business customs built among the actors involved in timber transactions. However, we found that it is difficult to share resource information outside the network. As resource decline becomes more serious, there is a possibility that restrictions will be placed on the supply of timber used for wooden cultural properties. As a solution to this problem, we considered the needs for rationalized timber utilization and the reduction of the burden on timber suppliers through the utilization of “inspection guidelines” and quality inspections.
View full abstract