I wonder how many years kawara tiles last. If they are taken care of they will actually last over a thousand years. The roof of Nara's Gango-ji temple holds tiles from the Kanpyo era (729 - 748). Those kawara tiles have lasted for 1250 years, and their beauty lies in the uniqueness each individual tile possesses. Without each tile being uniform, when viewed as a whole the roof has a wonderful sense of unity, harmony and peace.

Shukei Jigyo aims to once again realize this beauty with their goal of revitalizing locally-made tiles. It would be too costly and time-consuming to use these tiles on every modern building. But there are certainly many buildings and structures in every town and village that need these expressive tiles.

Reproducing a "Dharma kiln," a traditional Japanese kawara kiln and producing smoked tiles with local clay are essential elements in Shukei Jigyo's activities, but are needed across the country, not just limited to Obuse. We are determined to act as pioneers for an eventual revival in every part of the country.