Timber Production and Its Economic Benefits in Japan

Abstract

Pattern of food, clothing and housing is adopted by any society under the prevailing circumstances and environments and Japanese Society is no exception to it. Japanese ancestors gained farming skill and relevant livestock for labour and cultivation purpose, however their animal protein is based on marine products, as it is surrounded by sea. With abundance of natural forests and several workable species, Japanese emphasized on wood housing construction. Such dwelling arrangements dates back to 1200 years ago. Since then art and architecture in shrines, temples, luxurious large residence of feudal lords (Daimyo), common houses, huts, furniture, ships, vehicles, toys etc. reflects the wooden based construction of Japanese dwelling, therefore wood is considered essential and necessary for The life of Japanese people. However, the start of Meiji Era (1M60 fir, onwards), westernized every aspect of Japanese Society including wood, as national isolation policy of Japan was withdrawn from Japanese civilization.