Online dictionary of history and traditions in Japan: Shoji

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French version

Shoji

障子
alternative words: Shouji
keywords: architecture
related topics: Kamakura period , Japanese paper
related web sites: http://www.media-line.or.jp/shoujigami/ , http://www.tcct.zaq.ne.jp/koundo/
explanation: Initially it designated every movable and light structure such as fusuma (sliding screen) and tsuitate (screen) inside Japanese house. Since Kamakura period, thin white Japanese paper (washi) has been applied to wooden frames to let light penetrate inside room. Now, the term "Shoji" is specially used to this sliding screen as opposing to Fusuma which uses thick paper. Shoji still continues to be appreciated by may people because of the healthiness: it lets air to pass freely.